Betty Eastwood BMX Track Review

As a family, we have become quite obsessed with BMX/Pump tracks. We feel they are a brilliant, safe way to get children into Cycling. Fortunately, we have one approximately 10 minutes from our doorstep. It’s a small one, but perfect for the kids to enjoy and pick up some key skills. This is Betty Eastwood BMX Track in Crigglestone, Wakefield.

The track has become a staple in our weekly routine. I tend to pick Barney up from Nursery, drive the short distance to Crigglestone and give him a short boost in improving his biking skills. As a parent, it’s just about giving your children that little boost of outside time and we’ve found on an evening this is a perfect spot.

Where is Betty Eastwood BMX Track Located?

Betty Eastwood Park is situated in the suburb of Crigglestone, just a short drive from the centre of Wakefield. We are based in Sandal so we are very close to Crigglestone which is very handy! The park is easy to access, with parking available nearby. If you’re cycling, you can easily hop on the many local routes that connect to the area.

Here’s a handy tip: If you want to use Google Maps on your phone, use WF4 3PR as the postcode, which will get you close to the park’s entrance. It’s a quiet, residential area, so you’ll find parking easily, and the park is just a short walk from there.

A Little History of Betty Eastwood Park

Betty Eastwood Park has a strong connection to the local community. Originally donated to the village, the park was named in honour of Betty Eastwood, a Crigglestone resident who was passionate about preserving green spaces for public use. Over the years, it has evolved into a go-to spot for locals, particularly families, and dog walkers who enjoy its wide grassy areas and woodland tracks joining it with the local housing developments.

The BMX track, however, is a relatively newer addition, built to give children and teens a space to practice their biking skills. While it might not be the latest and greatest BMX track, it’s a good spot which can be used free of charge. What’s not to like?

What Level is the BMX Track Aimed At?

The BMX/pump track at Betty Eastwood is definitely on the “beginner-friendly” side, making it perfect for younger kids. Both Matilda and Barney enjoy it and we’ve visited on occasions with friends which makes it more fun. For having an off-road place to teach your child how to ride a bike it’s a nice spot. While the track does have some jumps and curves, it’s not overly intense, so children can build their confidence at their own pace. It’s an ideal starting point for toddlers and young children who are either still mastering their balance bikes or, like Barney, getting used to how a regular bike feels (we are currently on a regular bike with no pedals at the time of writing!)

Older children or more experienced bikers might find it less thrilling, as it lacks the advanced features you’d find in larger BMX tracks like the Leeds Urban Bike park. But for young ones, it’s a great spot to learn and grow their skills in a safe, controlled environment.

Other Facilities at Betty Eastwood Park

Aside from the BMX track, Betty Eastwood Park is mainly known for its expansive grassy areas and wooded paths, which are often populated by dog walkers. These spaces are perfect for families who want to explore nature, have a picnic, or simply let the kids run around after some time on the bike.

The park itself is not huge, but it has picnic benches and enough space to wander around after biking. There’s enough to fill your morning for an hour or so but it’s not somewhere you could spend the entire day.

There is no play park at Betty Eastwood. This would be a welcome addition and would probably make it more popular but it’s not something I see happening in the foreseeable future.

Areas for Improvement

As much as we enjoy our visits to Betty Eastwood Park, the BMX track could use some love. On wet days, the track tends to puddle, especially in the lower dips, which can make it tricky for little ones.

The track itself hasn’t seen much maintenance in recent years. The surface can be a little rough in places, and some of the jumps have become worn down over time. While it’s still perfectly usable, a bit of upkeep would go a long way in making it an even better spot. I would also add picnic benches near the BMX Track so parents can sit down and relax while the kids ride.

Would We Recommend Betty Eastwood BMX Track?

In short, yes! If you’ve got young children who are starting their biking journey or are looking for a low-pressure place to practice, Betty Eastwood BMX track is a great choice. It’s local, it’s free, and it offers a good balance of biking fun and nature exploration.

However, if you’re looking for something more advanced or a more polished facility, this might not be the place for you. You may be better off trying Leeds Urban Bike Park in Middelton. We do however enjoy the proximity to our home that Betty Eastwood offers so we will always be regular visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there parking available?

Yes, there’s free parking available near the entrance to Betty Eastwood Park.

Is the BMX track suitable for toddlers?

Absolutely! The track is beginner-friendly and perfect for young children who are either on balance bikes or just starting out on regular bikes.

What should we bring?

We recommend bringing snacks, plenty of water, and maybe a change of clothes. It can be boggy in places so either waterproofs or a change of clothes are recommended.

Can older children use the track?

Yes, but older or more experienced bikers might find the track a bit too easy. It’s best suited for beginners and younger kids.

Is the park suitable for picnics?

Yes, the park has large grassy areas perfect for a family picnic. There’s not a great deal of scenery or any facilities so I would always tie a picnic in with the BMX track vs visiting the park in isolation.

Pros & Cons

BMX Track Overall Rating

Last Updated on October 10, 2024 by Ryan