Allerton Bywater 5

Route Overview & Local Insights

The Allerton Bywater 5 is a refreshing 5.2km out-and-back route that is perfect for runners looking to find their rhythm on flat, reliable terrain. Starting in the heart of the village, you’ll quickly join the old railway path, which offers a smooth, paved surface (roughly 30%) and well-maintained trails. With a negligible ascent of just 20m, this is a prime course for beginners or experienced athletes aiming for a tempo session. The highlight of the loop is the circumnavigation of Bower's Lake, where the trail opens up to provide tranquil water views and a burst of natural scenery before you head back along the sheltered railway line.

Located on the banks of the River Aire, Allerton Bywater has a rich industrial heritage, transitioning from a prominent coal mining community to a pioneering "Millennium Community" focused on sustainable living and green spaces. Running along the old railway line connects you to this history, as these paths once transported coal across West Yorkshire. Today, the area has been reclaimed by nature, with Bower’s Lake forming part of the local ecology that makes this part of the Aire Valley a haven for wildlife. It’s a peaceful corridor that feels worlds away from the nearby urban centers of Castleford and Leeds.