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Best forest hiking trails in Leeds
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Best forest hiking trails in Leeds

Need a nature reset? These forest hikes will immerse you in a sea of greenery, where the air is crisp, the ground is soft, and every step feels like a magical woodland escape.

Here are some great trails to explore in Leeds.

Most popular trails

1

Easy

Harewood Circular Walk

Leeds, England · star 5.0 (7) · 7.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 48 min

2

Easy

Waterloo Lake and Roundhay Park Walk

Leeds, England · star 0.0 (0) · 5.0 km · Est. 1 hrs 12 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

Lemonroyd Lake and Lowther Lake Loop

Leeds, England · star 5.0 (7) · 9.9 km · Est. 2 hrs 10 min

5

Easy

Hawksworth Wood Loop

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

6

Easy

Leeds and Liverpool Canal Walk - Leeds

Leeds, England · star 0.0 (0) · 7.7 km · Est. 1 hrs 38 min

7

Easy

Golden Acre Park Loop

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

8

Easy

Calverley Loop

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

9

Easy

RSPB St Aidan's and Methley Junction Loop

Leeds, England · star 5.0 (3) · 14.2 km · Est. 3 hrs 6 min

10

Easy

Bramley Fall Park and Leeds and Liverpool Canal Walk

Leeds, England · star 4.0 (3) · 6.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 29 min

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Reviews for forest hiking trails 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).

No reviews available for Waterloo Lake and Roundhay Park Walk.

Charlotte rae avatar

Meanwood Park and Scotland Wood via Meanwood Valley Trail

Charlotte · reviewed 10 months ago

star star star star star

Nancy Hyatt avatar

Lemonroyd Lake and Lowther Lake Loop

HighlandNomad88 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Nova Steuber avatar

Hawksworth Wood Loop

RangeForester50 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails 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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