Explore Leeds through a series of delightful pub walks, from the scenic Waterfront Pub Crawl with historic stops like Kirkstall Abbey, to the tranquil Eccup Reservoir loop starting at The Lord Darcy. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Leeds while enjoying the hospitality and refreshing brews of charming local pubs.
What are the best pub walks in Leeds?
- The Waterfront Pub Crawl: Starts at The Vesper Gate with highlights including Kirkstall Abbey, Bridge Inn, and Granary Wharf.
- Ilkley Heritage Walk: Begins at The Cow and Calf with notable points like Ilkley Moor and White Wells.
- The Aireborough Greenway: Starts at Guiseley Station, featuring The Station pub and Yeadon Tarn Park.
- Meanwood Valley Trail: From Woodhouse Moor, it passes through Woodhouse Ridge with pubs like Alfred and Terminus.
- Eccup Reservoir: Begins at The Lord Darcy, circling past the reservoir to The New Inn and back.
Leeds, a city renowned for its vibrant culture and natural beauty, offers an array of experiences for nature enthusiasts and pub aficionados alike. The concept of combining scenic walks with visits to charming local pubs is not only an exciting way to explore the city but also a delightful means of experiencing local hospitality and refreshing brews. In this guide, we delve into five curated pub walks that promise both stunning landscapes and welcoming taverns.
The Waterfront Pub Crawl
A picturesque journey beginning at The Vesper Gate offers an unfolding panorama of Leeds’ waterways. The River Aire and Leeds-Liverpool Canal intersect the city, providing a serene backdrop for a leisurely stroll. After departing from the allure of Kirkstall Abbey’s ruins, walkers can indulge in the local flavours at West End House or the Bridge Inn, which is praised for its selection of Kirkstall Brewery beers and satisfying pub fare coupled with riverfront views.
Continuing along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal, the path reveals Gotts Park, a hidden gem among Leeds’ green spaces. As you venture towards the city, the industrial heritage of Leeds emerges through the remnants of mills and factories beside the canal. Waterfront bars like The Cross Keys, The Midnight Bell, and the establishments at the revived Granary Wharf, such as The Hop and Water Lane Boathouse, beckon with the promise of a final refreshing drink.
- Start: The Vesper Gate, Abbey Road, Kirkstall, Leeds, LS5 3NG.
- Highlights: Kirkstall Abbey, Bridge Inn, Gotts Park, Granary Wharf.
- Route: Check out the waterfront route.
Ilkley Heritage Walk
Embrace the allure of Ilkley’s natural beauty with the Ilkley Heritage Walk, beginning and concluding at the eminent Cow and Calf pub. Here, vistas of striking rock formations await, alongside an inviting menu and beverages. The moorland adventure unfolds with waypoints guiding walkers to Hangingstone Quarry and beyond, revealing breathtaking views across the Wharfe Valley.
Decision points along the way offer the chance to extend the excursion, including the Dick Hudsons’ Path, leading to a gratifying round-trip if time permits. Alternatively, the shorter Waypoint 3 route leads to White Wells and its quaint café, before circling back to Crocodile Rock, Hangingstone Quarry, and the comforting embrace of The Cow and Calf for a well-earned pint.
- Start: The Cow and Calf, Hangingstone Road, Ilkley, LS29 8BT.
- Highlights: The Cow and Calf Rocks, Ilkley Moor, White Wells.
- Route: Discover the Ilkley Heritage Walk.
The Aireborough Greenway
The Aireborough Greenway beckons with its appeal to both cyclists and pedestrians. Starting at Guiseley Station, the trail invites explorers to The Station pub for an optional initial refreshment. A relaxed 1.5-mile walk through the Greenway’s verdancy leads to multiple pub options, including The Robin Hood and The Clothiers Arms, culminating in the picturesque Yeadon Tarn Park.
- Start: Guiseley Station, Guiseley, Leeds, LS20 8BX.
- Highlights: The Station pub, Yeadon Tarn Park.
- Route: Embark on the Aireborough Greenway.
Meanwood Valley Trail
The Meanwood Valley Trail offers an urban escape minutes from the city centre. Traversing Woodhouse Moor and the forested Woodhouse Ridge, this trail presents an array of distinguished pubs such as Alfred, Terminus, and Boot & Rally. The second leg unveils The Hollies and the ruins of Scotland Mill, with The Myrtle Tavern near Meanwood Beck. While the final stretch lacks pubs, it rewards with the natural splendour of Golden Acre Park.
- Start: Woodhouse Moor, Woodhouse Lane, Leeds, LS2 9DZ.
- Highlights: Chemic Tavern, Meanwood Park, The Myrtle Tavern.
- Route: Explore the Meanwood Valley Trail.
Eccup Reservoir
This tranquil sojourn around Eccup Reservoir begins at The Lord Darcy. The route takes walkers past the golf course to the reservoir’s circuit, which offers arresting views. The Dales Way connects to farmsteads and the Dam Bridge, presenting an opportunity to visit The New Inn, known for its food and drink offerings, before closing the loop back at The Lord Darcy.
- Start: The Lord Darcy, 618 Harrogate Road, Leeds, LS17 8EH.
- Highlights: Eccup Reservoir, The New Inn, Dam Bridge.
- Route: Experience the Eccup Reservoir walk.
Each walk encapsulates the essence of Leeds’ picturesque landscapes and its friendly pub culture. These treks are not just walks but experiences that immerse one in the heart of Yorkshire’s natural beauty and the warmth of its community.
- The Waterfront Pub Crawl starts at The Vesper Gate and includes stops at Kirkstall Abbey, Bridge Inn, and Granary Wharf.
- The Ilkley Heritage Walk begins at The Cow and Calf and features notable points like Ilkley Moor and White Wells.
- The Aireborough Greenway starts at Guiseley Station with pub options like The Station and The Robin Hood, ending at Yeadon Tarn Park.
- The Meanwood Valley Trail passes through Woodhouse Moor and Woodhouse Ridge with pubs like Alfred, Terminus, and The Myrtle Tavern.
- The Eccup Reservoir walk starts at The Lord Darcy, circles the reservoir, and includes a stop at The New Inn.