The seasons are changing, the leaves turning that autumnal orange, and the weather has turned distinctly cool as we head into the winter months, but that shouldn’t stop you from taking advantage of the last of the daylight hours with a walk around one of the many incredible locations in and around Leeds this autumn.
Despite the cooler temperatures, many people feel that an autumnal walk is a unique, beautiful experience, with many people preferring to walk around this time of year compared to any other season - admittedly, it has been getting hotter than usual during the summer months in the UK.
Before the chance is too late and the inevitable biting climates of the winter months arrive, we’ve picked 15 of our favourite, magical walks available to those in and around Leeds; from popular haunts such as Roundhay Park and Temple Newsam, to the historical merits of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and Kirkstall Abbey.
So, will you don the scarf and hat and check out one of our autumnal walk recommendations this season? Read on to find out where we think you’ll experience the magic of a walk during the autumn months in and around the city.
7. Temple Newsam
A large country estate with over 1,500 acres of parkland, lakes, and woods, as well as a historic mansion and a working farm. The main car park next to the Temple Newsam House is the most convenient starting point. | Simon Hulme
8. Yeadon Tarn
Also known as "the dam" by locals, Yeadon Tarn, near Leeds Bradford Airport, is a 20-acre park with a stunning view of a lake. It is an ideal place to take a refreshing walk. Other activities to get involved with include sailing, fishing and plane watching. | Jonathan Gawthorpe
9. Rawdon Billing
An ideal short walk for those limited on time, or during a lunch break from work, this two-mile circular route around Rawdon Billing offers everything. Varied terrain, wide open spaces and exposure to the elements means this walk is far from straightforward, but remains a popular route for many. | Gerard Binks
10. Leeds Country Way
A 62-mile circular route that completely encircles the city of Leeds. It is divided into several manageable sections, so you can choose to walk a small part or tackle a longer stretch. Golden Acre Park (pictured) is a popular and official starting point for the clockwise route. | Yorkshire Post Newspapers
11. Ilkley Moor
A classic West Yorkshire moorland walk with stunning panoramic views and iconic rock formations, including the Cow and Calf Rocks. A common starting point is at the Cow and Calf Rocks car park on Hangingstone Road, or from Darwin Gardens in Ilkley town centre. | Submitted
12. Kirkstall Abbey and Riverside Walk
This walk combines the impressive ruins of a medieval abbey with a tranquil riverside path along the River Aire. The main car park at Kirkstall Abbey (Abbey Road, LS5 3EH) is the best place to begin. | National World - Local TV