Woodland cycle trails at Nostell
Test your skills on our bike trails, designed with families in mind. This figure-of-eight loop takes in woodland, lake views and the chance to spot wildlife.
Near to
NostellStart point
Boathouse Bridge, grid ref SE407178Trail information
Difficulty*
EasyFull trail
DistanceMiles: 2.7 (km: 4.32)Shared paths
This cycling loop connects two 1km bike-only routes but also includes paths shared with walkers, wheelchair users and buggies, so please take care.
Total stages: 9
Total stages: 9
Start point
Boathouse Bridge, grid ref SE407178
Stage 1
Before setting off, take in the panoramic views across Nostell's Lower Lake – then head straight up the path into Obelisk Park. Please remember, this section is shared with other parkland users.
Stage 2
Continue up the long straight path towards Obelisk Lodge. If you fancy a break, hop off halfway up to take in the wildflower meadows, a riot of colour in the summer months.
Stage 3
You've arrived at Obelisk Lodge. This is the original entrance to Nostell's estate and you've just cycled along the route that would have brought guests to the house by horse and cart. Turn left here to try out the green cycling route: once you go through the gate, the path is for bikes only.
Stage 4
Wind your way around sweeping bends under canopies of trees – and be aware that some of the chicanes are tighter than they look.
Stage 5
This is a real test of your cycling skills. Steer your way down the zig-zag paths until you reach the bottom and head through the gates – that's the green trail completed. Turn left through a second gate and follow the path straight on.
Stage 6
Continue past the lake on your right. When you reach the junction at the end of the path, turn left to head all the way back up to Obelisk Lodge.
The lake at Nostell | © National Trust Images / John Millar Stage 7
When you reach Obelisk Lodge this time, turn right to try out the blue trail. Wheel under canopies of trees and wind your way around more sweeping bends.
Stage 8
As you come round the bend here, get ready to head downhill on a sloping path.
Stage 9
You've reached the end of the blue trail. If you've packed your sandwiches, take a well earned rest in the Hardwick Beck picnic area before following the path back to Boathouse bridge.
End point
Boathouse Bridge, grid ref SE407178
Trail map
The cycle trails at Nostell, Yorkshire | © Crown copyright and database rights 2013 Ordnance Survey
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Get in touch
Doncaster Road, Nostell, near Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF4 1QE
Our partners
We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
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