Alternative Link routes to the start of the Dales Way.

An alternative Link Route from Leeds to Ilkley.

As the Dales Way is essentially a valley walk, the purist may want to approach Ilkley from Leeds along Airedale. ( 19 miles 30.6 km ) From the main entrance to Leeds station cross the forecourt to a circular white building with a notice saying 'Way Out Bishopgate'. Go down the stairs and turn right, to pass under the railway lines. Pass the Leeds Hilton Hotel and cross the River Aire by Victoria Bridge (look right to see the lock which marks the start of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal). Then turn right along Water Lane, and after a few yards fork right again between warehouses. Keep straight on to reach the old Canal Office beside a canal bridge (nice view of Leeds Basin to the right). Cross the bridge and turn left along the canal towpath. Follow the towpath for the next 12 miles Shortly after passing Sir Titus Salt's Saltaire Mills (GR 141 382) - it is worthwhile, by the way, making a detour into Saltaire village to look at the rest of the excellent architecture and the David Hockney Gallery in Salt's Mill - you will reach a canal lock. This is where you join the Bradford - Ilkley - Dales Way Link for the crossing from Airedale into Wharfedale.

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