7 dog walks near Leeds: best trails, parks and woodland areas to walk your pet - from Roundhay park to Eccup reservoir

As the winter weather approaches and travel restrictions continue throughout the country, you may be bored of the same old neighborhood walk with your dog.

Why not get out and explore beautiful nature spots on your own doorstep? And who better to accompany you than man’s best friend?

Here are seven walks in Leeds where you and your dog can blow off the cobwebs, stretch your legs and enjoy mother nature.

1. Roundhay Park

This stunning park has acres of scenery, including paved walking trails, lakes and gardens.

The park is only a 16-20 minute drive from Leedscentre and provides a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

It also has toilet facilities and a cafe.

Maintained by Leeds City Council, the park is open 24 hours and dog owners are expected to clean up after their mucky pups. The walking trails are adequate for all levels of fitness.

Accessed from Princes Avenue, entrance on Mansion Lane, LS8 2HH.

2. Eccup Reservoir

This leisurely walk around the beautiful scenery of the reservoir is roughly 4.5 miles long and takes approximately one hour.

The walk to get to the reservoir is about one hour also.

The drive to the route is only 17 minutes from the city and parking is available near Allwoodley Lane.

There are no parking facilities at the reservoir but the scenery from the start of the trail does not disappoint.

However, you may want to take into consideration you and your pets’ fitness levels and ability to walk for three hours.

3. Middleton Park

Middleton Park has something for everyone and their doggy companions.

One side of the park has flat, paved strolls with views of the lake and old bells, allowing you to take in some of Leeds’ mining history as you walk,while the other side of the park features old woodlands where dogs are allowed to run freely.

The park is particularly popular for dog walkers so you may want to keep a lead handy for if your pooch is a little overly enthusiastic when they meet new furry friends.

There is also a cafe and playground on the land.

The park is situated just 18 mins from Leeds city centre and is accessed from Town Street, Middleton, LS10 3SH

4. Temple Newsam

This grand house and surrounding acres of land are perfect for you and your pooch - regardless of fitness levels or type of dog.

Walks range from short strolls to lengthy walks from one end of the gardens to the Little Temple monument.

The only places where your dog needs to be on its lead is in the courtyard and the gardens.

Despite the house and galleries being closed until 2 December, the gardens and cafe remain open for takeaway.

The estate is only 22 minutes away from Leeds city centre by car and is accessed from Temple Newsam Road, Leeds LS15 0AE

5. Otley Chevin

‘The Chevin’ peak isn’t a suitable weekend stroll for an old dog or boisterous pup as it can be quite a challenge and should only be attempted by dogs who can handle steep gradients and hilly terrain.

However, the forest walks and glens surrounding the peak are accessible for everyone and dogs can be let off their leads, as long as they are trained to return to their owners when called.

The walk has three main car parks and the views are outstanding, allowing you to truly appreciate the glorious countryside outside of the city. The walk is just 30 minutes’ drive from the centre of Leeds.

The park is accessible from East Chevin Road, Otley, LS21 3DD

6.The Hollies, Meanwood Park

Located in Meanwood Park, this tranquil forest walk allows you to relax in natural surroundings, with acres of land to let your pooch run free.

The terrain is changeable, given the leafy, grassy nature of the park and weather should be considered.

The park is only a 15 minute drive from the city centre and a small public car park is accessible near Bardon Grange Lodge, 103 Weetwood Ln, Weetwood, Leeds LS16 5PA

7. Ardsley Reservoir

Just outside of Wakefield, the reservoir is a great location to appreciate the sunrise and sunset across Emley Moor.

The walk is mainly flat and open, with fields surrounding the walk.

From Leeds city centre, drive 20 minutes to the car park, though parking is limited and the scenic views can attract a number of people so you may wish to plan ahead in case of limited spaces.

The reservoir can be accessed from Haigh Moor Rd, Tingley, Wakefield WF3 1EE