The historic Leeds Liverpool Canal traverses through the landscape, its towpath ready for those seeking adventures on two-wheels to discover a linear route.
From the holiday cottages, you soon join the towpath, passing the Bank Newton locks and follow it towards Gargrave. From Gargrave onwards, the surface is shinier and newer – still an off-road surface, but less adventurous than the section between Bank Newton Locks and Newton Grange.
You may wish to travel an “out and back” route – making Skipton the mid-point on the ride, or perhaps take a linear day out, using the train line to help with the return journey.
If a linear route appeals, it’s worth checking out the train timetable for a return journey in advance (including checking about booking your bike on to the train). There are return trains on the Leeds line regularly to Skipton, and less frequently to Gargrave (for the 2 mile cycle back to your cottage).
Places you might enjoy discovering as you cycle between Bank Newton and Leeds:
Skipton – take in the canal basin and High Street as it goes up to Skipton Castle
Bradley – see the Polish War Memorial
Farnhill – delight in the trees and wildflowers along the canal
Kildwick – just by the church (impressive in its own right), is a lovely little tea room, and further along towards Silsden, places to grab a bite to eat outdoors
Bingley – the Five Rise Locks and cafe
Saltaire – the World Heritage site, Salt’s Mill and Robert’s Park are all next to the canal
Leeds – a vibrant city, and a regular train service to Skipton and less regular service to Gargrave (please do check the current timetables)
And in the other direction from Bank Newton, you soon cross the border in to Lancashire – that’ll be a post for another day soon 😉
Facilities for cyclists at Newton Grange Holiday Cottages:
- Secure, covered cycle storage
- Cycle maps and books
- Puncture repair kits
- Hose pipe and washing facilities
- Recommendations of local bike shops to assist with repairs and maintenance
- Links with experienced Cycle Guides locally who can run tailor-made days out for you
Is there anything else you can think of that you need? We hope to see you and your bike soon.