If you haven’t discovered Leeds Urban Bike Park in Middleton yet, then you are in for a treat!
It’s a mountain bike trail centre, BMX track, café and bike shop combined . . . and it’s totally free to use.
There are lots of different trails, from complete beginner to expert. When my family and I went during the bank holiday weekend there were all ages and abilities enjoying themselves, from really young children through to teenagers and middle aged (+) adults!
My 14 year old was getting used to his new bike, and said he found the variety of trails really encouraging, as he could build up from easy, to much more challenging, as he got more comfortable and confident. Etiquette on the trails is great – we had no worries about being mown down by faster riders.
As to practicalities, it’s easy to get to from North Leeds – it took us about 20 minutes from Oakwood Clock. There is loads of free parking, toilets and a great café. Please support this, as the park is run as a not for profit Community Interest Company and this is one of their main sources of income. Great coffee, paninis, cakes – and not expensive. If you don’t have a bike, you can hire one, plus a helmet.
Oh, and a top tip, it’s open late until 8pm on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Find out more about Leeds Urban Bike Park here.
