The best traffic-free bike rides around Keighley

There are 15 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Keighley featured in this guide. These routes offer a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

Yes, Keighley offers several easy, traffic-free routes perfect for beginners or families. A great option is the Five Rise Locks Café – Bingley Five Rise Locks loop from East Morton, which is 14 km long with minimal elevation gain. Another gentle ride is the Leeds & Liverpool Canal – Bingley Five Rise Locks loop from Keighley, covering 10 km along the scenic canal towpath.

The terrain varies significantly. While canal towpaths like the Leeds & Liverpool Canal offer flatter, often crushed limestone or gravel surfaces suitable for hybrid or gravel bikes, other routes venture into the rolling hills and moorlands of Bronte Country. Expect a mix of paved surfaces on quiet country lanes and some challenging climbs, especially on routes heading towards the Keighley Moors or South Pennines.

Yes, many of the routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the View of Cross Roads Village – Beckfoot Bridge loop from Haworth offers a challenging 27.5 km circular ride through scenic landscapes. Another moderate circular option is the Bike loop from Steeton with Eastburn, covering 23 km.

Keighley's routes are rich with natural beauty and historical landmarks. You can cycle past the impressive Brontë Bridge and Brontë Waterfall near Haworth, or witness the engineering marvel of the Bingley Five Rise Locks on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal. The region also offers expansive views over the Worth Valley and Aire Valley, with glimpses of the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway.

Many of the traffic-free routes, especially those along canal towpaths or quiet country lanes, are suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are well-behaved and kept on a lead where necessary. Always be mindful of other path users, livestock, and local regulations. The Leeds & Liverpool Canal towpath is generally a good option for dog-friendly rides.

Spring, summer, and early autumn (April to October) are generally the best times for touring cycling in Keighley. During these months, you'll experience milder weather, longer daylight hours, and the vibrant landscapes of Bronte Country and the moorlands. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures, potential ice, and shorter days, especially on exposed moorland routes.

Yes, several routes pass through or near villages and towns where you can find cafes and pubs. The canal towpath routes, for instance, often lead to places like Saltaire, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with numerous cafes, independent shops, and pubs. The area around Bingley Five Rise Locks also has cafes. It's always a good idea to check opening times in advance, especially in smaller, more remote areas.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Keighley, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the traffic-free routes, the stunning natural scenery of the moorlands and valleys, and the rich historical context of Bronte Country. The variety of routes, from gentle canal paths to challenging climbs, is also frequently highlighted.

Parking is available at various access points for these routes. For canal towpath routes, you can often find parking in towns like Keighley, Bingley, or Saltaire. For routes starting in more rural areas like Haworth or Steeton with Eastburn, look for designated public car parks. Always check for any parking restrictions or fees before you leave your vehicle.

Keighley is well-connected by public transport, making it possible to access many route starting points without a car. Keighley has a train station with connections to Leeds and Bradford. Local bus services also cover many of the surrounding villages and towns. The Leeds & Liverpool Canal towpath is easily accessible from various points along its length, often near train stations or bus stops.

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the region offers routes with significant elevation gain. The View of Cross Roads Village – Beckfoot Bridge loop from Haworth is classified as difficult, featuring over 500 meters of ascent over 27.5 km. These routes often take you into the more demanding terrain of the Keighley Moors and South Pennines, known for their gruelling climbs.