Green Spaces & Woods of North Leeds
Details
This is a revised version of this very varied anti-clockwise route, ranging from quiet streets and urban cycleways, through to woods, parks and other green spaces in the northern part of Leeds. Whilst ebikes are welcome, the ride leader will be on a 'normal' bike which will limit the pace to sub-warp speed!
We start in Leeds city centre and ride along the river for a bit before turning east and then north via quiet streets and urban cycleways, on through green spaces up to Roundhay Park. From there we move on to Gledhow Valley woods and more woodland close to the ring road.
We will then head down Meanwood Valley and continue our anti-clockwise loop through Beckett Park and Kirkstall down to the river at Newlay and a potential refreshment stop at the Abbey Inn. From there it's an easy ride along the Leeds & Liverpool canal back into Leeds.
Food: We will have a lunch stop at The Barn coffee shop by Meanwood Valley Urban Farm, about halfway round the route. Alternatively you can bring your own snap if you prefer. We may stop for a drink when we get close to the canal for the final section back into Leeds. It is an easy ride back from there for those not wishing to stop.
Meet: Water Lane Boathouse pub, Canal Wharf, LEEDS, LS11 5PS.
What3Words: https://what3words.com/metro.helps.remind
Nearest rail station: Leeds (300 yds).
Time: 10:15 for 10:30 departure.
Type of ride: Mixture of quiet streets, tarmac cycleways and unsurfaced trails and paths.
Ride distance: 31 miles.
Ride duration: 5½ hours including stops.
Technical difficulty: GREEN/BLUE (Easy to Moderate), most of it very easy, but a few tricky bits with mud, rocks or tree roots where the bike can be safely walked though if need be. There are no steep technical descents.
Physical difficulty: BLUE (Moderate), around 1,500ft total (aggregate) ascent so a reasonable level of fitness required, but there are no long 'lung buster' ascents.
Suitable For: Mountain bikes, Hybrids & Gravel bikes with treaded tyres.
Recommendations: Spare tube, Tools, Pump, Snacks, Energy bars/drinks, Water.
Safety: No Helmet = No Ride!