Leeds to Kirkstall Abbey by the canal
Out of the city along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal to the ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian abbey.
- Distance
- 6.4 km
- Ascent
- 40 m
- Time
- 1.5–2 h
- Grade
- Easy
- Route
- Linear
- High point
- 50 m
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Route mapped on from OpenStreetMap paths, with heights from EU-DEM terrain data; not yet checked on the ground by TRXO. Added to TRXO on . For planning only: always navigate with an up-to-date map such as OS Explorer or Harvey. How we make our routes.
About this walk
Leeds to Kirkstall Abbey by the canal is an easy 6.4 km linear walk with 40 m of ascent, taking 1.5 to 2 hours. It starts at Granary Wharf, Leeds (grid reference SE 297 331). The start can be reached by public transport.
The Leeds and Liverpool Canal starts at Granary Wharf, right beside Leeds station, and its towpath is a green route out of the city. It passes old mills and warehouses, then runs between the River Aire and wooded slopes.
The walk ends at Kirkstall Abbey, one of the best-preserved Cistercian abbeys in Britain, founded in 1152. Its grounds are a public park.
Route
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1
Granary Wharf
Join the towpath at Granary Wharf and head west out of the city.
-
2
Along the Aire
Follow the canal past the old mills and along the valley.
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3
Kirkstall Abbey
Leave the towpath for the abbey ruins and park.
Summit
On the way
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Kirkstall AbbeyAbbey · on the route
Questions about this walk
- How long does Leeds to Kirkstall Abbey by the canal take?
- Most walkers take 1.5–2 hours for the 6.4 km route, which has 40 m of ascent. That allows for short stops; give yourself longer in winter, in poor weather or with a group.
- Where does the walk start, and where can I park?
- It starts at Granary Wharf, Leeds (grid reference SE 297 331). City-centre car parks (charge).
- Can I get there by public transport?
- Starts beside Leeds station. Return by bus from Kirkstall, or by train from Kirkstall Forge. Check times on Traveline.
- How hard is it?
- It's graded easy. Flat surfaced towpath, shared with cyclists.
- Can I take my dog?
- Yes, dogs are welcome on this walk. Before you go: The towpath is shared with cyclists: keep children and dogs away from the edge.
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