Meanwood Valley Trail

Question 1

Where does the Meanwood Valley Trail start?

Answer

The trail begins at the statue of the former Leeds mayor Henry Rowland Marsden on Woodhouse Moor (Hyde Park). Just around the corner from the University of Leeds. From here it passes down Delph Lane and into Woodhouse Ridge.

Question 2

How long is the Meanwood Valley Trail?

Answer

The total distance of the Meanwood Valley Trail is 7 miles or 11km. It can be split into sections if time is of the essence.

These sections are:

Woodhouse Moor to Meanwood Park – 2 miles
Meanwood Park to Seven Arches – 2 miles
Seven Arches to Golden Acre Park – 3 miles

Each section gives a slightly different view of the valley.

Question 3

How long does it take to walk the Meanwood Valley Trail?

Answer

At a standard pace it can take around 2 hours. However the length of time it would take to walk the Meanwood Valley Trail really depends on how fast you walk it, and the time of year.

It is worth considering the weather, as if it has been raining parts of the trail are very muddy. This will significantly slow the pace, and there will be lots of jumping from rock to rock.

However, we would also suggest factoring in food and drink breaks. Scotland Wood is a great place for a food break. Sat amongst the trees with a sandwich can be quite peaceful.

Question 4

Is the Meanwood Valley Trail Signposted?

Answer

The Meanwood Valley Rangers have done a great job in signposting almost the whole of the trail. Look out for the blue circular badge with a white owl on wooden posts. Usually paired with a green ‘Permissive Path’ badge and arrow.

Meanwood Valley Trail Owl Badge and Permissive Path signpost

Keep a look out for these and you shouldn’t have a problem.

If you do, the map above paired with the GPS functionality should point you in the right direction!

Question 5

Can you run the Meanwood Valley Trail?

Answer

Yes you can run the Meanwood Valley Trail! It is definitely one of the more interesting run routes in Leeds!

Leedsrunroutes.co.uk have put together a 14km running loop of the meanwood valley trail. It passes through much of the beautiful surrounding area, such as meanwood park, golden acre park, and breary marsh. Check out the meanwood valley trail run here.

If you would prefer a circular walk of the Meanwood Valley Trail we would recommend using this route as well!

Question 6

What to wear to walk the Meanwood Valley Trail?

Answer

The choice of clothing really depends on the season. In the summer months the ground tends to be dry for the whole of the route. We would recommend airy clothes and good sturdy shoes or trainers. However, this is England and a spot of rain can change the game!

In spring, autumn and winter it may be worth putting on a few more layers. Walking boots or shoes are essential. From Meanwood Park up until Golden Acre Park can be particularly muddy and slippery. A good pair of boots will provide support for your ankles when going downhill and good grip on slippery or unstable surfaces. A waterproof jacket or coat is also a good idea. There are sections of the route without shelter, and you do not want to be caught when the skys open!

No matter the season, it is always worth taking a backpack with enough water and food for the trip. Although there are food and drink locations on route, they may not always be open.

Question 7

What animals are along the trail?

Answer

The first half of the trail is a bit more city, so you are likely to only see dogs on walks, and squirrels. This is likely to continue as you move through Woodhouse Ridge.

On the way into Meanwood Park you will pass horses, and a few chickens. And once in Meanwood Park there are a number of birds. Swans, ducks, and the usual woodland Pidgeon.

In the later part of the trail you past Scotland wood you walk alongside a farmers field. Here you may come across cows or sheep.

Finally, at Golden Acre Park you are sure to see a number of swans, ducks, geese, and a large number of squirrels!

Question 8

Where to stay near the Meanwood Valley Trail?

Answer

Looking to stay along the Meanwood Valley Trail? Lets us know if this is something you are interested in (contact form below), and we will add this section to the site!

Question 9

Where are toilets along the Meanwood Valley Trail?

Answer

As the Meanwood Valley Trail passes through or alongside several built up areas, there are a number of places that have toilets. This changes as you reach the third section of the trail. Between Meanwood park and Golden Acre Park there are no toilets. May need to be a nature wee…