Where to run in Leeds at night

Leeds, a bustling city in West Yorkshire, offers a unique blend of urban energy and natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, running at night in Leeds can be an exciting and rewarding experience. With the city's mix of scenic trails, iconic landmarks, and vibrant neighbourhoods, there are plenty of routes to explore after the sun goes down. 

But, when running at night, it’s essential to stay safe, especially in darker areas. That’s where the right gear, like a reliable head torch, comes in, and a smaller keyring torch with an alarm to keep you safe.

With the right lighting, you can enjoy the beauty of Leeds by night, all while staying visible and safe. Here are some of the best places to run in Leeds after dark.

1. Roundhay Park

One of the largest city parks in Europe, Roundhay Park is a perfect spot for a peaceful run under the stars. Its sprawling grounds feature wide, well-maintained paths, making it ideal for runners looking to cover a good distance. The park is home to lakes, woodlands, and open spaces, providing plenty of variety for your route. While the main paths are lit, some of the more secluded trails are darker at night, so a head torch, like the rechargeable H7R Core (perfect for night runners), will help light your way and keep you safe.

Running in Roundhay Park at night offers a tranquil atmosphere, with the sounds of nature all around. Whether you prefer a short loop or a longer trail, this park is a great place to enjoy a run after dark.

2. Kirkstall Abbey and the River Aire

Kirkstall Abbey is one of Leeds' most iconic landmarks, and it looks stunning at night. For a scenic yet urban run, head over to the Abbey and follow the River Aire path, which winds its way through beautiful countryside views and picturesque historical sites. The route is mostly flat, making it suitable for runners of all abilities.

Running along the riverbank after dark offers a different experience compared to daylight, with the Abbey’s illuminated ruins providing an atmospheric backdrop. While the route along the river is partially lit, some sections may be quite dark, so it’s advisable to bring a torch to ensure good visibility. With a high quality running head torch, you’ll be able to illuminate the path ahead, making sure you can enjoy this peaceful, scenic run safely.

3. Leeds Canal Towpath

The Leeds & Liverpool Canal runs through the heart of the city, providing a perfect route for a nighttime run. The canal towpath stretches for miles and offers a mix of urban views and peaceful nature, making it an ideal choice for runners who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

The towpath is mostly lit in urban sections, but as you venture further out into the more rural parts, the lighting becomes sparse. If you're planning on running along the canal at night, a head torch or handheld torch can help ensure you stay visible to others and keep your footing steady. It’s a great route for those who enjoy a quiet, reflective run while watching the world go by.

4. The Meanwood Valley Trail

For those who prefer a more challenging route, the Meanwood Valley Trail offers a more rugged, natural setting for a nighttime run. Starting from Woodhouse Moor, this 7-mile trail takes you through woodlands, fields, and valleys, offering some beautiful and often tranquil spots to run at night.

The trail is not particularly well-lit, so it’s important to have a reliable light source to navigate through the darker sections. The diverse terrain can present some obstacles, so a head torch with adjustable brightness, like the rechargeable MH11 head torch, which will ensure you can safely traverse this path at night while keeping your hands free for a more comfortable run.

5. City Centre and the University District

For a more urban nighttime run, Leeds city centre and the nearby university district provide plenty of illuminated streets, parks, and public spaces. This area is perfect for those who prefer to stick to well-lit routes and enjoy the city lights. Running around the city centre offers a different perspective of Leeds, with its mix of modern architecture, historical landmarks, and bustling streets.

If you’re running in these areas at night, you’ll find that street lighting is generally good. However, some quieter side streets may be dimmer, so it’s a good idea to carry a small running torch in case you need extra visibility.

6. Headingley and Hyde Park

Headingley and Hyde Park are two vibrant student areas in Leeds, known for their lively atmosphere during the day. At night, however, these neighbourhoods offer quieter, more relaxed settings, making them ideal for a run. The routes around these areas include both urban paths and green spaces, such as the lovely Woodhouse Moor, which is a popular spot for evening joggers.

These areas provide a mix of well-maintained streets and peaceful park trails, offering a great balance for those looking to enjoy a variety of terrains. Whether you’re running along the streets of Headingley or through the open spaces of Hyde Park, the area has something for everyone, from scenic routes to more energetic stretches.

Take advantage of Leeds at night

Leeds offers a variety of scenic and safe routes for running at night, whether you're looking for a peaceful park or an urban adventure. With its combination of well-lit paths and darker trails, it’s important to be prepared with the right gear, especially a reliable light source like a head torch. Running at night not only lets you experience the city in a new light but also offers a unique way to connect with nature and enjoy the peaceful beauty of Leeds under the stars.

So, whether you prefer the serenity of Roundhay Park, the history of Kirkstall Abbey, or the urban energy of the city centre, there's a route in Leeds that’s perfect for your next nighttime run. Stay safe, stay visible, and enjoy exploring the city by night!

Explore our full range of running head torches to find the right one for you.