Meanwood Grove

This is a 4.4 km lollipop-shaped route from Meanwood Park, meaning you’ll run out, complete a loop, and return along the same initial path. The surface is a mix of about one-third paved paths and two-thirds unpaved trails. Road shoes will be adequate in dry summer conditions, but for the rest of the year, you will want the grip of trail shoes for the sections along the beck.

The route starts by heading north from the park on trails through the trees, eventually reaching Parkside Road. For a short section, the loop parallels the Ring Road, so expect some traffic noise here before the route turns south. You'll cross Weetwood Lane and onto Weetwood Mill Lane before the path drops down to follow the trails running alongside Meanwood Beck. This is the part of the run most likely to hold mud and water after rain.

With only 59 metres of total ascent, the hills are minimal and the course feels gently rolling rather than properly hilly. The main variable is the underfoot conditions, particularly on the woodland sections. It's a varied short run that gives you a bit of everything: park paths, a short spell on roads, and proper trail alongside the water, all without being too far from the city. The finish just retraces the first kilometre back to your starting point in the park.