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.
5. Roundhay Park
One of the largest urban parks in Europe, offering a variety of walks around its two lakes (Waterloo and Upper Lake), woodlands, and gardens. There are multiple car parks, but the Lakeside car park near the café is a very popular place to start a walk around Waterloo Lake. | National World
6. Otley Chevin
Walkers can enjoy spectacular views across the market town of Otley from the Chevin, which boasts a large park network of woodland paths awash with autumn colours, and panoramic views of the Wharfe Valley. | James Hardisty
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