6k Run Leeds: Scenic Journey Along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 5.6km loop offers a refreshing escape through the green corridor of West Leeds, perfectly suited for runners looking for a flat, fast finish with minimal elevation gain. Starting at the historic Newlay Bridge, you'll head up Pollard Lane to join the Leeds and Liverpool Canal towpath. The first half of the route is exceptionally smooth and paved, allowing you to settle into a steady rhythm as you head toward Calverley Bridge. After crossing the water, the return leg follows the banks of the River Aire, providing a softer, more natural terrain that transitions between gravel and well-trodden paths, making it a great choice for a multi-terrain recovery run or a scenic 5k-plus effort.

The area surrounding Horsforth and Calverley is steeped in industrial heritage, once serving as a vital artery for the Yorkshire textile trade. Running along this stretch, you’ll pass the remnants of old stone mills and the impressive architecture of the 19th-century Newlay Bridge itself, which was built by John Pollard to connect his estates. While the canal side is often buzzing with narrowboats and fellow runners, the riverside section offers a quieter, more secluded experience where you might spot kingfishers or herons. It’s a local favorite for its "best of both worlds" feel—blending the structured towpath with the wilder, wooded character of the Aire Valley.