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10 of the Best West Yorkshire Walks to try this Autumn 🍁
02 October 2023West Yorkshire is a region of stunning natural beauty, offering a diverse range of landscapes perfect for those who love to explore. From rolling hills and lush valleys to historic towns and rugged moorlands, West Yorkshire has it all. In this blog, we'll take you on a journey through some of the most interesting walks in our region, highlighting the natural beauty, historical significance, and local charm that make each one special.
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Lace up your walking boots, embrace the beauty of our diverse region, and experience the magic of West Yorkshire. Remember to check local trail maps, respect the environment, and enjoy your journey. Oh, and don’t forget, there is no such thing as bad weather, just unsuitable clothing!
Bradford
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
For literature and nature lovers alike, the Brontë Way is a must-visit walking route. This 43-mile trail means you can do as much or as little as you please, as it takes you through the landscapes that inspired the Brontë sisters to write their classic novels. Starting in Haworth, home to the Brontë Parsonage Museum, on this walk you'll wander through the charming village, across heather-covered moorlands, and along riverside paths. Along the way, you'll pass by key Brontë landmarks, such as Top Withens and Ponden Hall, and experience the same landscapes that once ignited the sisters' imaginations.
Difficulty: Easy
Length: Half a mile
A self-guided plaque trail reveals a hidden route that the Bradford Beck takes through the heart of the city. 15 spots across the city centre have stone markers set into the pavement, each with a line from a unique poem. Follow the pavements between Thornton Road, beside the former Odeon, and Lower Kirkgate. Explore the urban and natural landscapes of Bradford while following the path of the Beck.
Kirklees
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 2.8 miles
The Huddersfield Narrow Canal offers a relaxed and picturesque walking experience along the waterway. You'll pass through charming towns like Slaithwaite and Marsden, and the Standedge Tunnel, one of the longest and deepest canal tunnels in the UK. The towpath is ideal for leisurely walks, with the canal's still waters and surrounding greenery creating a tranquil atmosphere. Why not try the Eastergate Bridge return walk? An easy walk following the red way markers from the National Trust Office in Marsden along the canal towpath through quiet winding lanes before reaching the historic Eastergate bridge.
Greenhead Park to Beaumont Park Loop:
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 2.5 miles
The journey begins at the picturesque Greenhead Park, a well-loved local spot with beautiful gardens and a large lake. From there, take a leisurely stroll along the canal towpath heading southwest. This route will lead you to the charming Beaumont Park, a Victorian gem with cascading waterfalls and well-maintained gardens. Enjoy a relaxing stroll surrounded by nature and history in an urban setting.
Calderdale
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
Length: 7 miles
The Hebden Bridge Circular Walk allows you to explore both the town itself and the surrounding countryside. The route takes you along the Rochdale Canal, through woodlands, and up to the stunning Hardcastle Crags, where you can discover waterfalls and woodland trails. The terrain can be hilly and can include some steep climbs, as the area is part of the South Pennines. Be prepared for a mix of footpaths, country lanes, and stiles.
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 7 miles
The Calder and Hebble Navigation is a peaceful canal path that runs through Calderdale. It provides a flat and easily accessible walking route with scenic views of the canal, boats, and surrounding countryside. One of the notable features of the Calder and Hebble Navigation is its staircase locks, which are a series of locks where a boat passes directly from one lock to another without any intervening pounds of water. These locks can be seen at Salterhebble and Brookfoot. Why not try the Brighouse to Sowerby Bridge section, which once served the area at the height of the industrial revolution.
Leeds
Kirkstall Abbey and Riverside Walk
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.5 miles
Kirkstall Abbey, a historic ruin set in a picturesque park, is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and walkers. Explore the abbey grounds and then take a stroll along the serene riverside path beside the River Aire. The abbey is an excellent example of medieval architecture and provides a glimpse into the religious and cultural history of the region.
Horsforth to Rodley Nature Reserve
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Length: 2 miles
If you're a birdwatching enthusiast, the walk from Horsforth to Rodley Nature Reserve is ideal and it’s free to enter. Check out opening times before setting out. This route takes you along the Leeds Liverpool Canal, offering abundant bird-watching opportunities in the tranquil reserve. You can even do some pond dipping in the warmer months free of charge and get a cup of tea and a biscuit for just a small donation.
Access the canal from Newlay Lane Horsforth, cross over Newlay Bridge (Erected by John Pollard in 1819). You will see the old weir originally built in 1607 to give more power for Kirkstall Forge. Make your way past The Abbey Pub and the canal is just a few yards up the hill on the left. Once on the canal turn right and you’re on your way. Look out for a small holding half-way along at the other side of the canal. You might see a random sheep on the canal bank!
Wakefield
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: From 3-8 miles
The Wakefield Way encompasses a 70-mile journey around the outskirts of Wakefield, guiding hikers through picturesque rolling landscapes adorned with fields and woodlands. It meanders alongside serene bodies of water, passing by grand country estates, through delightful villages, and reveals unexpected vistas. This handy map has divided up the way into manageable chunks which you can chip away at over a series of weekends. Along the 11 walks which make up the Wakefield Way route, you will encounter historical landmarks and remnants of Wakefield's industrial heritage.
Difficulty: Easy
A historic site located just outside Wakefield, Sandal Castle is known for its associations with the Wars of the Roses, particularly the Battle of Wakefield in 1460. Richard, Duke of York, a key figure in the Yorkist faction, was killed in the battle, and his death had a profound impact on the course of the conflict. There are various walking trails around the castle grounds that offer both historical and scenic views. You can explore the remains of the castle itself with the Castle loop walk, including the well-preserved motte and bailey, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
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