4.5
(200)
13,273
riders
252
rides
Road cycling around Leathley offers diverse routes through a picturesque rural setting in North Yorkshire. The area is characterized by undulating terrain, quiet roads, and scenic landscapes, including views of the Wharfe Valley. Cyclists can expect varied gradients, from gentle slopes to more challenging climbs, making it suitable for different fitness levels. The region's proximity to areas like Otley, known for its cycling culture, further enhances its appeal for road cyclists.
Last updated: August 15, 2026
47
riders
62.4km
02:42
540m
540m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
58
riders
106km
04:41
960m
960m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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5.0
(2)
48
riders
25.7km
01:04
160m
160m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(2)
51
riders
22.6km
01:01
190m
190m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
28
riders
50.0km
02:27
740m
740m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Lindley Wood is a compensation reservoir, which means it is not linked to the supply of water to homes but is there to take excess water from Fewston and Swinsty reservoirs, which are nearby. This is why there is not much water in there.
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This reservoir is one of the oldest in the Washbourn Valley; it was built between 1869 and 1876. The other three reservoirs here are Thruscross, Swinsty and Fewston. Walking around the reservoir is a truly aesthetic, soul-beautifying experience. The green wooded banks, woodland and reservoir paths and open countryside... what else would anyone want in life?... oh, sunsets here are unbelievable.
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The northern bank of the River Wharfe holds a rich history of horse racing. The present-day Racecourse is situated upon land that once belonged to the Montagu family of Ingmanthorpe Hall. This expanse of land was leased to the race committee, with the inaugural meeting taking place on the 30th of March 1891. Starting in 1906, the committee embarked on a journey to enhance the course's amenities, commencing with the construction of the enduring 'Bramham' Grandstand – an edifice that stands resolute to this day.
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There are over 260 road cycling routes around Leathley, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
Leathley's road cycling routes are characterized by an undulating rural setting with scenic landscapes. You'll find a mix of quiet roads, varied gradients, and picturesque views of the Wharfe Valley. The topography includes both challenging climbs and enjoyable descents.
Yes, Leathley offers a good selection of routes for beginners. There are over 50 easy road cycling routes available. An example of an easy route is the Otley Town Centre – Farnley Climb loop from Weeton, which covers about 21.8 km.
The spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Leathley, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. The scenic landscapes, especially the Wharfe Valley views, are particularly beautiful during these seasons.
The road cycling routes around Leathley are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 180 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet rural roads, varied terrain, and the scenic views across the Wharfe Valley and surrounding countryside.
Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Leathley offers nearly 70 difficult routes. A notable challenging route is the Boroughbridge High Street – Almscliffe Crag loop from Weeton, which is over 106 km long and features significant elevation gain, traversing varied terrain including the prominent Almscliffe Crag.
Road cycling routes near Leathley often pass by or offer views of several natural features and landmarks. You might encounter the dramatic Cow and Calf Rocks, enjoy views of the Wharfe Valley, or cycle near reservoirs like Fewston and Lindley Wood. The area is known for its green wooded banks and open countryside.
Many routes offer stunning viewpoints. The region is known for panoramic views across the Wharfe Valley. Specific highlights include the Fewston Reservoir Circular Path, which offers scenic vistas, and various trig points like Shooting House Hill Trig Point and Little Alms Cliff Summit, which provide elevated perspectives of the landscape.
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Leathley are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Red Kites in Flight – View of Wetherby Racecourse loop from Weeton is a popular circular route.
While many routes involve undulating terrain, there are easier options that families comfortable with road cycling might enjoy. Look for routes categorized as 'easy' or 'moderate' with lower elevation gains. The quiet rural roads can be suitable for families, but always check the route details for specific suitability.
Leathley and its surrounding villages, including nearby Otley, offer various cafes and pubs where cyclists can refuel. While specific establishments aren't listed in route details, the strong cycling culture in the broader region suggests many cyclist-friendly stops. Exploring towns like Otley, which hosts cycling events, will likely yield good options.
Leathley is a rural village, so direct public transport access might be limited. However, nearby towns like Otley, which is well-connected, could serve as starting points with better public transport links. From there, you can cycle to access the routes around Leathley. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for connections to smaller villages.
Beyond the scenic routes, you can cycle towards towns like Otley, known for its cycling culture and historic town centre (Otley Town Centre). The area also features historic sites like Dob Park Bridge and the picturesque village of Leathley itself with St. Oswald's Church.


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