Cycling in Leeds
When it comes to cycling in Yorkshire, Leeds has to be one of the ideal spots to start pumping the pedals. The city offers a large area of mainly flat terrain, with problem free hills, and access to many points of interest in the surrounding area. It’s a city that caters for the commuter, leisure cyclist, and competitors as well, with all types of services, facilities, and cycle routes well promoted through the city council, and other local cycling clubs/organisations.
The Leeds Cycle Map, produced by the City Council is a useful guide for all regular cyclists who travel in and around the city. It illustrates cycle routes recommended by cyclists, different types of terrain, road and off road based cycle paths, and other routes accessible to cyclists, such as those through parks, on bridleways, or down quite country roads. The map also shows designated cycle parking, and the locations of cycle paths throughout the city.
One of the most popular routes marked on this map is the Trans-Pennine Trail, of which there is a Leeds section. The whole trail is a coast to coast route linking Mersey and The Humber, which can also be found marked on the National Cycle Network. The Leeds part of the trail covers the City Centre, Woodlesford, and tourist traps the Royal Armouries, and Thwaite Mills Museums. Other main routes in the city include the Leeds University Campus to Campus route from Kirkstall Brewery to Beckett Park, another route via university campuses, that also takes in Headingly Cricket/Rugby stadium, and the Cross Green to Colton route, which takes in Temple Newsam House.
Finally, cyclists can also check out the Aire Valley Towpath route, taking in many points of interest, including the World Heritage Site Village of Saltaire, and the West Yorkshire Cycle Route taking in acres of farmland and the Pennine Hills. There are routes and terrain to suit all ages and abilities, and for those wanting to get more involved, there are a few organisations and events to be found as well.
The National Bike Week Scheme is promoted in the city, with the council, and other individuals/businesses running their own events during the annual campaign. Something else worth joining in with is the Leeds Cycling Action Group. Members of this organisation receive news on issues affecting cyclists in the area, representation at relevant council meetings, the opportunity to attend regular social rides, and use member discounts at local cycling shops. Students haven’t been forgotten either, with the Leeds University Bicycle Users Group, and Leeds Uni Cycling Club active. The Bicycle Users Group promote university facilities for cycling, along with other bike safety and local cycling issues, while the Cycling club arranges regular social outings, along with a full schedule of Downhill, Mountain Biking, and Road Racing activities.
Cycling can open doors to many different opportunities in Leeds, and whether you’re a family, couple, students, of those seeking exercise, I think you’ll be surprised at how much Leeds has to offer. It’s easy to find the information and kit you need to get started as well, so there’s no reason to not get out there, and get cycling in Leeds.
