The Templars of Neusum trail

From the mid-twelfth century to early in the 14th, the Knights Templar established a preceptory farmstead on land that is now Skelton Country Park. This was a working sheep farm that, at its height, ran over a thousand animals and fed wool into the trade networks that would eventually make Leeds a key textiles city. Yet nothing marks the site today.

This 2.5-hour trail reconstructs the community that lived and worked here — not only knights, but the labourers, tenants and farmhands whose daily lives shaped this landscape. At eleven stopping points across a 3km circular route, you'll encounter their voices, drawn from the historical record and careful reconstruction.
The trail is led by artist researcher Jon Eland, whose related work draws on archive sources including archaeological digs and the dissolution inventory.

Suitable for adults and accompanied older children (13+). Free parking available at Skelton Lake Services (for up-to 3 hours).
Places are limited — pre-booking required.

This trail is supported by Leeds Civic Trust.

Timings

Saturday 12 September:

Departs at 1330 (meet from 1315).

Monday 14 September:

Departs at 1330 (meet from 1315).

Sunday 20 September:

Departs at 1330 (meet from 1315).

Location & directions

Skelton Lake Services, M1 J45 Skelton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS9 0AS

Directions:

We will meet at the rear of the Services - go directly through, passed all food vendors - and exit through the glass doors between the toilets.

Contact on day:

Jon Eland (full contact details provided to registrants)

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking required

Booking conditions:

See booking site for information.

Booking website:

https://joneland.co.uk/skelton/

Booking opens:

10 Jun 2026 12:00 AM

Booking closes:

19 Sep 2026 11:55 PM

Accessibility details

The site is a country park (not an urban park). There is only one resting place on the route (a bench around two-thirds around). In wet weather the paths can gain puddles or become muddy. The only toilets are at the service area.

Additional information

See web links for more information.

Max number of people:

15

Estimated duration:

2 hour(s) 30 minute(s)

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