CHRISTMAS Day may be long gone and the last of the turkey is finished, but New Year’s Day presents a great opportunity to blow away the cobwebs and take a refreshing winter walk. 

The Bradford district is home to an array of walks for every age and ability; with rugged woodland trails, country parks and urban rambles, there is plenty to explore this winter. 

Helen Rhodes, Ilkley BID Manager, said: “The Bradford district offers lots of opportunities for families to get out and about and explore nature in winter particularly during the school break. 

“The area is steeped in history and absolutely brimming with beautiful scenery to enjoy during the colder months. From moorland, valleys, woodlands, ancient trading routes, stunning views and community gardens, there is so much to see and do in Bradford!”

Lister Park, Bradford

For those looking for a simple stroll in the city, Lister Park offers a great balance of nature and convenience. Paths connect the formal Mughal Water Gardens, boating lake and botanical gardens and make an ideal, low intensity walk for all abilities. To keep children entertained, download the Love Exploring app for hidden surprises and don’t miss the new children’s playground

Bingley Five Rise Locks

As the Leeds Liverpool Canal winds through the district, there are lots of opportunities for towpath walks. Perfect for nature enthusiasts, Bingley Five Rise Locks is home to a variety of wildlife including crayfish and kingfishers, and with a free wildlife explorers' map, making it an ideal day out for children.

Middleton Woods, Ilkley

For an alternative route to the ever popular Ilkley Moor, Middleton Woods offers 38 acres of stunning woodland. Another great spot for wildlife, the unsurfaced paths are perfect for families wanting to get outdoors and be close to nature. 

Walkers Welcome, Baildon 

In 2013, Baildon was awarded Walkers are Welcome status, thanks to its fantastic countryside location and abundance of routes for walkers of all abilities. The Baildon Walkers' Group has a range of ideas for visitors to Baildon to plan a New Year’s Day walk in the local area.  

The Bronte Connection, Haworth

To really stretch your legs, there’s nothing like a wintry walk out onto the Brontë moors above Haworth. Follow The Bronte Connection, a 4.5-mile hike, linking three important sites connected to Emily Brontë’s novel ‘Wuthering Heights’.

Northcliffe Park, Shipley

A mixture of woodland and fields creates a diverse natural environment with great opportunities for bird or bat watchers. Jackdaws, tawny owls and even ring-necked parakeets have been known to favour the mature trees of the wood. Northcliffe Park is a brilliant walk for wildlife enthusiasts.

Roberts Park, Saltaire

Forming part of the Saltaire UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning park borders the River Aire for a relaxing, accessible trail in one of the region’s most attractive locations. The grade two listed park lodge resides by the entrance gate, and a cafe within the park offers panoramic views of the wonderful surroundings, and an ideal spot for a rest on a cool winter stroll.

To find out more about what’s going on in the Bradford district during the winter season, visit www.sparklingbradford.info.