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Best wildlife hikes in Leeds
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Best wildlife hikes in Leeds

Calling all nature lovers! These wildlife-rich hikes give you the chance to spot some of the forest's cutest inhabitants.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Leeds.

Most popular hikes

1

Easy

Harewood Circular Walk

Leeds, England · star 4.9 (7) · 7.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 48 min

2

Easy

Spring Lane Sidings Loop

Leeds, England · star 4.0 (2) · 3.8 km · Est. 52 min

3

Easy

Meanwood Park and Scotland Wood via Meanwood Valley Trail

Leeds, England · star 5.0 (1) · 7.0 km · Est. 1 hrs 39 min

4

Easy

Hawksworth Wood Loop

Leeds, England · star 4.0 (1) · 5.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 13 min

5

Easy

Leeds and Liverpool Canal Walk - Leeds

Leeds, England · star N/A (0) · 7.7 km · Est. 1 hrs 38 min

6

Easy

Golden Acre Park Loop

Leeds, England · star 4.0 (2) · 2.6 km · Est. 37 min

7

Easy

Calverley Loop

Leeds, England · star 5.0 (4) · 7.7 km · Est. 1 hrs 50 min

8

Easy

Bowers Lake and Lemonroyd Lake in RSPB St Aidan's

Leeds, England · star 4.4 (5) · 5.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 11 min

9

Easy

River Wharfe and Newton Kyme Viaduct Loop

Leeds, England · star 4.7 (6) · 4.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 4 min

10

Easy

RSPB St Aidan's and Methley Junction Loop

Leeds, England · star 4.7 (3) · 14.2 km · Est. 3 hrs 6 min

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Reviews for wildlife hikes in Leeds

Sophie Parkinson avatar

Harewood Circular Walk

Sophielou199 · reviewed 8 months ago

star star star star star

Really lovely circular walk, pretty in spring with all the bluebells and spotted deer and got up close with highland cows! If you want less incline go the opposite direction (main road start).

Reinaldo Reichel avatar

Spring Lane Sidings Loop

CampVoyager53 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Charlotte rae avatar

Meanwood Park and Scotland Wood via Meanwood Valley Trail

Charlotte · reviewed 10 months ago

star star star star star

Nova Steuber avatar

Hawksworth Wood Loop

RangeForester50 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Leeds and Liverpool Canal Walk - Leeds.

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Leeds

What is the climate like for hiking in England?

In England, hiking in the spring (March to May) sees milder temperatures and flourishing wildlife, however trails may be muddy due to showers. Summer (June to August) offers the most stable weather with longer daylight hours but trails can be crowded, especially in national parks. Autumn (September to November) can be wetter but displays vibrant fall colours.

Winter hiking (December to February) is more challenging due to short days and colder, often unpredictable weather. Snowfall can make some trails inaccessible. Always check the weather forecast and equip accordingly. Experienced hikers may enjoy the tranquility and stark beauty of the winter landscape. 

Ultimately, the best time to hike in England depends on personal preferences and preparedness. England's official tourist site (https://www.visitengland.com/) provides in-depth information about various hiking trails and their seasonal characteristics. Be sure to research specific areas as climate can vary across the country.

Do I need a permit to hike in England?

In England, the "Right to Roam" allows hikers access to certain public lands without a permit. Some areas like national parks or Sites of Special Scientific Interest may have specific rules. Before hiking, check with the landowner, National Trust, or local council. Information on access rights can be found on the Natural England website (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/open-access-land-management-rights-and-responsibilities).

Is wild camping allowed in England?

Wild camping in England is generally not allowed without landowner permission, except in some parts of Dartmoor National Park. Breaching this can result in fines. It's advised to use official campsites or seek landowner consent for a more immersive experience. For more, visit the Dartmoor National Park's website (https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/visiting/planning-your-visit/camping).

Are there mountain rescue services in England?

In emergencies while hiking in England, dial 999 and ask for the police, then request Mountain Rescue. The Mountain Rescue England and Wales (MREW) is a volunteer-run organization that provides assistance in upland and lowland areas. More information can be found on their website (https://www.mountain.rescue.org.uk/).

Are there dangerous plants in England?

England's diverse hiking trails present a range of flora. Expect bluebells in ancient woodlands, gorse on coastal paths, and heather on moorlands. In protected areas, refrain from picking or damaging plants. The Woodland Trust provides more details on the UK's native species (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in England?

While hiking in England, you may encounter a variety of wildlife including deer, foxes, badgers, and numerous bird species. Beware of ticks in tall grass and midges in damp, shaded areas. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (https://www.rspb.org.uk/) offers useful information on encountering wildlife responsibly.

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