4.7
(26)
613
riders
43
rides
Touring cycling around Shipley offers routes through the Aire Valley, characterized by its canal paths, riverbanks, and historic industrial landscapes. The terrain includes relatively flat sections along waterways, interspersed with gentle ascents into surrounding hills. This area provides a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces suitable for touring bicycles. The region's geography is shaped by the River Aire and the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, providing natural corridors for cycling.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
4.0
(1)
148
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
45
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(1)
32
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
19
riders
29.7km
02:32
500m
500m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
23.0km
01:34
350m
350m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The long distance walk The Yorkshire Heritage Way goes through Saltaire and the World Heritage site at Fountains Abbey on its way from Bradford Cathedral to Ripon Cathedral. On a personal note my Dad taught art to a young David Hockney at Bradford Grammar School ( tbf my dad always said with talent like that it was more a matter of being encouraging and not getting in the way )
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a must see. marvel of engineering and or industrial past
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If you're heading north from Bradford towards the Ilkley area then stop in at the Tambourine on your way back. Great for rewarding grub after some tough climbs!
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Originally built as a railway viaduct, and opened in 1883, Hewenden is today a Grade II-listed structure being one of the highest viaducts in Britain.The Great Northern Railway Trail, for walkers and cyclists, now runs over its span.
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There are over 40 touring cycling routes available around Shipley on komoot, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and interests.
The routes around Shipley primarily follow the Aire Valley, featuring canal paths, riverbanks, and historic industrial areas. You'll find a mix of relatively flat sections along waterways, interspersed with gentle ascents into the surrounding hills. The surfaces vary between paved and unpaved, suitable for touring bicycles.
Yes, Shipley offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Salts Mill and Weir, Saltaire – Saltaire World Heritage Site loop from Shipley is an easy 20.3 km path that features flat sections along the canal and through the historic Saltaire village.
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Saltaire World Heritage Site – Salts Mill and Weir, Saltaire loop from Shipley offer a more demanding experience. This route covers 36.2 km with significant elevation changes, connecting various heritage sites.
The touring cycling routes in Shipley are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic canal-side paths, the historical points of interest, and the variety of terrain suitable for different abilities.
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Shipley are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular moderate option is the Salts Mill and Weir, Saltaire – Bingley Five Rise Locks loop from Saltaire, which is 24.4 km long and takes you past notable canal-side scenery.
The routes often pass by significant landmarks and natural features. You can explore sites like the historic Bingley Five Rise Locks, the impressive Cow and Calf Rocks, or the ancient Twelve Apostles Stone Circle on Ilkley Moor. Many routes also traverse charming towns like Haworth, known for its Main Street.
Yes, the region around Shipley features several beautiful waterfalls that can be incorporated into your touring cycling adventures. Notable examples include Goit Stock Falls and Heber's Ghyll Wooden Bridges and Waterfalls, offering picturesque stops along your ride.
Many of the easier, flatter sections along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal are ideal for families. These paths are generally well-maintained and offer a safe environment away from traffic, making them perfect for cycling with children. Look for routes with 'easy' difficulty ratings.
Parking is generally available in and around Shipley, particularly near popular starting points for canal-side routes or in the historic Saltaire village. Specific car parks can be found in Shipley town centre or near attractions like Salts Mill, often with both paid and free options depending on the location and duration.
Yes, you can cycle past the impressive Hewenden Viaduct. The Saltaire World Heritage Site – Hewenden Viaduct loop from Saltaire is a moderate 23.0 km route that takes you through varied landscapes, including this notable architectural landmark.


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