Introduction

We are constantly being told we are becoming a sedentary nation and we should all be out in the fresh air taking exercise. The Morley Country Way (MCW) has been created to help you get out and about and enjoy your local environment. Using existing footpaths, bridle ways, and permissive paths surrounding Morley the route travels through some interesting local countryside. You may be amazed to find some hidden gems such as meadows, ponds, woodlands and open countryside, including stunning wide-open vistas of distant hills and valleys which surround our town. Unavoidably, in some places we had to use the local highways to link one footpath to another. We have used the shortest and safest routes possible but please take extra care on these sections especially if you have young children or a canine companion.

Walk options

The walk is approximately a 30Km (18.75 miles) circular recreational walk with Morley at its centre. You can choose to undertake it in one complete stretch or for a more relaxed approach walk one section at a time. The start and finish of each route is near to public transport and we give the bus route number for your convenience. Notably, walks start and end at a place supplying refreshments which you may wish to make use of. We certainly did whilst walking and researching the project.

How to follow the route

Detailed route descriptions are provided for all three sections of the walk which you should find easy to follow. Eventually, the routes will be marked with a distinctive way marker logo along with directional footpath signs for your convenience. Each section should take approximately 2 to 3 hours to walk, perhaps more at a slower pace to appreciate the views, take photos and have some breaks. Ordinance Survey Landranger 104 map has the footpaths for all 3 walks. You can check your route before you go on the footpaths map on Leeds City Council website on: https://www.leeds.gov.uk/parks-and-countryside/public-rights-of-way/definitive-map

What should I wear?

The route follows footpaths which cross the countryside and therefore can be a bit muddy specially during the wintertime. Walking boots or sturdy shoes are recommended. It makes sense to carry waterproofs just in case the weather changes and a bottle of water to drink en route. Although we have taken care to choose the most suitable footpaths the very nature of our hilly terrain crosses some areas of rough ground, steep slopes and footpath stiles making it difficult for any type of wheeled access. Mobile phone and First Aid kit are useful should a problem arise.

Reporting Problems

We hope that you will enjoy a trouble-free walk on the MCW but should you encounter any problems please report these in writing to Morley Town Council, Highways & Transportation Committee, Morley Town Hall, Queen Street. Morley LS27 9DY. Or email: town.clerk@morley.gov.uk Morley Town Council would like to thank Morley Walking Club and Parks & Countryside, Leeds City Council for their assistance in bringing this project to life.