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Leeds to Castleford

Route facts

Waterways:
Aire & Calder Navigation »

Distance: 13.92 miles / 22.4 km

Difficulty: Easy

Circular route from: Leeds

This route takes you from Leeds to Castleford cycling along the Aire & Calder Navigation. The section of the waterway which is used on this route is mainly a canal-side towpath. Very flat and not a tarmac surface all along the route. Suitable for a beginner or family ride.

However take care when cycling on any towpath where you are cycling along next to the waters edge. It's also a good idea to check our guide for cyclists on the Aire & Calder Navigation towpaths.

The distance of this ride is approximately 14 miles. You can of course adapt the ride to suit your own needs and make it longer or shorter.

This cycle route has been provided by www.cycleroutesuk.com. Visit their site for more cycle routes and cycling inspiration.

 

Waypoints

1. Start

Start at Thwaite Mill Watermill in Leeds. Address is Thwaite Lane, Stourton, Leeds, LS10 1RP.

Easting: 432569, Northing: 431003

2. Twaite Mill Watermill to Woodlesford

Starting from the opposite bank of the canal from the water mill, when looking across the canal at the mill cycle to your right along the canal heading out of Leeds and heading for Woodlesford and Castleford. Keep cycling along the tow path and after approx one mile the tow path will pas under the M1. After you pass under the M1 you will find that you are cycling along through a rural district outside of Leeds and after about a mile and a half you will pass the district of Woodlesford on your right.

Easting: 436686, Northing: 429482

3. Woodlesford to Castlefield

Continue to cycle along the tow path. After about a further two and a half miles you will pass the outskirts of Mickletown on your right hand side and then after cycling on the tow path for a about another two and a half miles you reach Castleford.

Castleford was originally a roman army settlement with the name of Lagentium. And it is said that Oliver Cromwell had an encampment at nearby Ferrybridge.

As you travel along the canal you will pass several locks on the canal and various ponds and lakes on your left, on the opposite bank to the one you are cycling along.

Easting: 445191, Northing: 427302