Here are some of our favourite doorstep walks around Rothwell, Oulton and Woodlesford that we’ve enjoyed during lockdown!
Rothwell Country Park
With great views over the city and some lovely paths, the short sculpture trail is great for little ones, and the pond trail a good route to see the best of the park. Read the description here.
Oulton Hall Perimeter Walk
The circuit is just under 5km, with various entry points. Beautiful woodland, great views and pretty lakes reward your walk. Read the description here.
Woodlesford Lock
This lovely short walk along the canal between Woodlesford Lock and Fishpond Lock is a firm family favourite. Not only do you get to see canal boats, and the possibility of them navigating two locks, but also passes some fantastic wooden sculptures of well known children’s characters. Read the route description here.
Water Haigh Country Park
So often people head towards the canal stretch in this fantastic country park without exploring the rest it has to offer! The woodland areas are great for little ones to explore, views are fantastic, and paths are nice and quiet. Read the route description here.
Lemonroyd Marina, Methley and St Aiden’s
This 5.5km route takes you along the river Aire and through the beautiful RSPB St Aiden’s. Pack a picnic or take a short detour to the Rivers Meet at Methley. Read the description here.
Oulton and Methley Estate circular
This walks starts on Oulton’s Fleet Lane, and picks up the Leeds Country Way to take you through the outskirts of the Methley Estate, heading back towards the canal and to your starting point. Read the description here.
Rothwell Pastures Circular Loop
This walk starts from the centre of Rothwell, so perfect to walk off a lunch that you’ve enjoyed. Head out towards Robin Hood on the old railway line and back between farms. Read the description here.
St Aidan’s RSPB Nature Reserve
Enjoy walking around the pretty wetlands and enjoying the view of this beautiful nature reserve on the site of an old opencast mine. Buggy friendly paths, and a variety of routes available. Read the description here.
Woodlesford Lock to the City Centre
If you fancy stretching your legs a bit further, walk all the way along the canal to the city centre and get the train back! A beautiful stretch- but you do need to navigate one bridge with steps! Read about it here.
Skelton Lake
Skelton Lake, hidden behind the Skelton Lake services offers a great little trip out to get some fresh air! You can just do a short walk around the lake from the services, or get there from Rothwell Country Park, Woodlesford or even Temple Newsam! More details here.
Other walks in the nearby area
- Billy Wood in Kippax is great for exploring toddlers with two short walks, but not suitable for buggies
- If you like St Aidan’s, chances are you’ll enjoy a walk at Fairburn Ings. Read about a day of exploration here, or about a 6km buggy friendly walk here.
- Just on the other side of the M62, you can have a walk at Stanley Ferry, taking in the canal and woodland on this buggy-friendly route.
- Temple Newsam is one of my favourite places to visit; make sure that you dont just stick to the house! Try this short circular walk.
- Ardsley Reservoir is a short drive away, and great to head to for a bit of fresh air and easy walking. Read about it here.
