An iconic stretch of the Leeds Liverpool Canal, taking in the historic Saltaire and Bingley 5 Rise Locks.
Table of Contents
Walk Route
- what3words for start point: ///porch.means.juror
- Distance: 3 miles
- Start Location: Roberts Park, Saltaire
- Finish Location: Bingley 5 Rise Locks
OS Route Map & GPX Download
The Ordnance Survey map below shows the full walk route, in pink. You can use this (try the full screen mode) on your smartphone to guide you where to go.
Download file for GPSDownload the GPX file for your GPS navigation device using the pink link above, and you’ll be able to use this walk on your own devices.
Walk Description
Starting the route in Roberts Park, Saltaire cross the River Aire to pick up the Leeds Liverpool Canal towpath.
You will follow the towpath for the full length of the walk to Bingley.
If you have time, you could take a ride on the Saltaire Trip Boat before starting the walk. At the beginning of the walk you will experience the history of Saltaire, a UNESCO Heritage Site.
Take the time to pursue the housing that Titus Salt provided for his workers. On leaving Saltaire, the route will start to feel more rural passing Hirst Wood. Continuing, follow the path towards Dowley Gap Lock.
This is the ideal stop for a mid-route refreshment break at The Fisherman’s, a canal side pub.
The route will become more industrial as you start to enter Bingley, and you will be able to see the Damart Chimney rising above the Bingley 3 Rise Locks. Continue following the path past the 3 Rise Locks towards the Rise 5 Locks. Bingley 5 Rise Locks are one of the Seven Wonders of the Waterways and are the steepest staircase lock on the longest canal in the country.
When you reach the top the 5 Rise Locks you will be able to take in the breath-taking views of the Aire Valley.
There is a café, perfect for a post walk nourishment, a private mooring and the Old Lock Keepers Cottage at the top of the staircase locks.
You may find a friendly Canal and River Trust Lock Keeper here helping boats navigate the locks.
You can retrace your steps back down the canal or catch the train from Bingley Station (5-10 minute walk from the Canal) back to Saltaire.
