If you’re a seasoned walker who wants a full-day challenge, then the 20-mile Dales Way Link is the perfect route to take. Set off at dawn to journey through Leeds' northern greenspaces, the market town of Otley, through valleys and up into the Dales before ending up in the picturesque town of Ilkley at the famous Cow and Calf Rocks before sunset.

placeholder image — If you’re a seasoned walker who wants a full-day challenge, then the 20-mile Dales Way Link is the perfect route to take. Set off at dawn to journey through Leeds' northern greenspaces, the market town of Otley, through valleys and up into the Dales before ending up in the picturesque town of Ilkley at the famous Cow and Calf Rocks before sunset.

13 beautiful walking routes, trails and parks in Leeds for autumn as the season starts to change

Assistant Editor

Published 1st Sep 2026, 11:30 BST

Autumn is just around the corner

September is here, the evenings are starting to draw in and the first signs of autumn will soon begin to appear across Leeds.

It’s the perfect time to pull on your walking boots and make the most of the city’s parks, woodland, riverside paths and countryside trails before the colder months arrive.

From peaceful woodland strolls to routes with spectacular views, here are 13 of the best walks in and around Leeds to enjoy this autumn.

13. Horsforth Hall Park

Located just six miles from Leeds city centre, Horsforth Hall Park is ideal for a gentle stroll. There’s plenty of open parkland to cover and kids can be kept entertained by the various attractions, including an adventure playground, bowling green, cricket pitch and a Japanese formal garden Photo: Bruce Rollinson

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Celebrating 135 years of telling Leeds' stories

13 beautiful walking routes, trails and parks in Leeds for autumn as the season starts to change

Autumn is just around the corner

13. Horsforth Hall Park

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