Hop On the Shipley Canal

At just under 12 miles, this route starts from Lister Park, Going on the new Shipley cycle route towards Roberts park along woodland tracks and quiet urban roads before joining the Leeds and Liverpool Canal towpath at the famous Bingley Five Rise Locks for a coffee break before heading back to Lister Park. This route will suit families looking to discover the gems of the Airedale Valley. Industrial history abounds in the area, with philanthropic industrialist Titus Salt's wonderful Saltaire one of the main attractions.  The engineering marvel of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal is also a sight to behold, with the famous Five Rise Locks at Bingley being a great photo opportunity. Built in 1774, the lock staircase is the steepest in the country, lifting narrowboats nearly 60ft over its 320ft length. However, the route, unlike the locks, is mostly flat so you can concentrate on enjoying the sights, not gasping for breath!

© National Trust Images / Arnhel De Serra

This ride uses part of National Cycle Network (NCN) route 696. To find out more about the NCN and other great places to cycle near you everyday, go to the Sustrans website (http://www.sustrans.org.uk/ncn/map/national-cycle-network).