Saltaire to East Riddlesden - towpath ride

A gentle, social ride along the canal towpath from Saltaire to Riddlesden Hall via Bingley 5 Rise locks.  This is an easy route on a flat path which is mostly well-surfaced and in good condition. We will meet at the bandstand in Robert's Park, Saltaire (a World Heritage village).  After a quick bike check we'll set off along this short section of the Aire Valley Towpath Route towards Bingley, cycling alongside the Leeds-Liverpool Canal - the longest canal in Britain. The route takes in areas of open countryside along the way.

From Hirst Wood we'll cross the aqueduct to Dowley Gap, pass the Three Rise and Five Rise locks at Bingley, then on to Riddlesden Hall. 

On the way back we will take a break at the café at the top of Five Rise Locks (a unique staircase of five locks running directly into each other - they are currently undergoing restoration, which should be completed in the spring). We'll then return to Hirst Wood arriving back around 12.30 p.m.  The ride is a total distance of around 9.5 miles and is mostly flat (cycling up the hill at the side of the locks is optional!).

Newcomers to Breeze rides are very welcome.  It's a good idea to bring some water and you may also want to bring a snack if you think your energy levels may need topping up.  Dress appropriately for the weather: several thin layers are good, so you can add/remove them as needed; a shower-proof jacket might come in handy too. Wearing a helmet is advisable.

Please bring some money if you want to buy refreshments at the cafe.

The towpath can get very muddy after rain, so please bear this in mind when choosing what to wear for the ride ;-)  We'll look forward to seeing you there!