Leeds and Liverpool Walk by Beth Pipe
It’s amazing how green most UK cities are once you wander away from the shops, and Leeds is no exception. At 127 miles the Leeds Liverpool Canal is the longest canal in Britain (built as a single waterway), and this walk explores the final section running into Leeds city centre.
At the start of the walk, even though you’re only a few miles from the hustle and bustle of the city, you are surrounded by glorious green countryside with a good variety of birds and butterflies flitting around the wildflowers alongside the canal.
Easily visible across the valley are the ramains of Kirkstall Abbey. The abbey was founded in the twelfth century and the dramatic ruins have attracted the attention of artists such as JMW Turner.
As you approach the city the countryside gives way first of all to the redbrick reminders of Leeds industrial past, and then to the more modern houses and offices of the twentyfirst century, admittedly less attractive but an apt reminder of the enduring popularity of the city.
The route is popular with walkers, cyclists and runners who all all make the most of the many miles of easily accessible tow path. Although this walk only covers a short stretch be warned, it’s likely to leave you wanting to explore much further.
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Nearest Train (or tube) Station(s):
Leeds, Liverpool
