The best running trails in North East England

If you're ready for a significant jogging challenge, the Kielder Lakeside Way offers a difficult 26.5 miles (42.7 km) loop around the vast expanse of Kielder Water. You'll navigate diverse terrain, from the tranquil shoreline to dense forests and open moorland, gaining 1266 feet (386 metres) in elevation. This extensive route typically takes around 5 hours and 4 minutes to complete, providing a full day's immersion in the stunning natural landscape.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Kielder Lakeside Way is a multi-user path accessible to many. You can begin your journey from several convenient visitor centers, such as Kielder Castle or the Tower Knowe Visitor Centre and Café, both offering facilities. For a different experience or to shorten your route, consider utilizing the Osprey ferry to access various sections of the trail around the lake.

As you jog, keep an eye out for the rich local wildlife, including elusive red squirrels and majestic ospreys soaring overhead. The route is also dotted with unique artistic installations and historical elements, like the impressive 1862 Kielder Viaduct, adding unexpected points of interest to your run. This blend of natural beauty, history, and art makes the Kielder Lakeside Way a truly distinctive experience in the region.

Embark on a difficult jogging route around Derwent Reservoir, starting from Millshield picnic site. This 9.5-mile (15.3 km) loop features 417 feet (127 metres) of elevation gain, offering wide-open views of the expansive reservoir and the prominent Pennine hills. You'll jog through colorful grasslands, dense woodlands, and open moorland, with picturesque Cronkley Bay as a notable landmark. Expect to complete this challenging route in about 1 hour and 37 minutes. The mixed terrain can be boggy after rain, particularly in the hills above the reservoir.

Millshield picnic site serves as a convenient starting point for your jogging adventure, providing a large car park and toilet facilities. Plan your visit carefully, as the mixed terrain can become quite boggy after wet weather, especially in the higher sections above the reservoir. Consider checking local forecasts before you head out to ensure optimal conditions for your run.

This area is nestled within the North Pennines National Landscape, offering a truly immersive outdoor experience. Beyond its daytime beauty, the region is also recognized as a designated Dark Sky Site. If you are interested in stargazing, consider extending your visit into the evening hours for a unique celestial display.

Embark on a moderate 5.3-mile (8.5 km) jogging loop through the historic Gibside Estate, featuring 610 feet (186 metres) of elevation gain and typically taking about 1 hour and 4 minutes to complete. You will navigate a diverse mix of surfaces, from tarmac and gravel tracks to woodland paths and grassy fields. As you jog, you will encounter undulating terrain, including noticeable slopes and steps, especially when descending to the riverside. Keep an eye out for the prominent Column to Liberty and the elegant Neo-classical Chapel, which are key visual anchors within this 18th-century designed landscape.

Planning your visit to Gibside Estate involves an entry fee if you are not a National Trust member. The paths are generally well-maintained, but be prepared for sections that can be steep and muddy, particularly after rain. Some routes within the estate, like the "Wonders of Nature Trail," are considered challenging due to steep gradients and steps, so choose your path according to your fitness level. Always check the estate's opening times and any specific access requirements before you go.

Gibside Estate is renowned for its rich history and diverse environment, offering more than just a jogging route. It is a preserved 18th-century landscape, home to architectural gems such as the grand ruin and a restored stable block. The estate's expansive natural setting provides excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, with deer often seen along the trails. Gibside also frequently hosts organized trail running events, highlighting its suitability and appeal for runners seeking a scenic and varied outdoor experience.

Embark on The Cheviot Horseshoe Fell Race loop from Langleeford, a difficult jogging route that takes you through the serene Lambden and College valleys. You will experience panoramic views from elevated points, including the expansive vistas from Hedgehope Hill Summit. This challenging 9.6-mile (15.5 km) route involves a significant 2560 feet (780 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 2 hours and 22 minutes.

Planning your visit requires careful consideration, as this is a hard run demanding very good fitness and sure-footedness. Be aware that certain sections, particularly around Comb Fell, are notoriously boggy even in dry conditions, so sturdy, waterproof footwear is highly recommended. Navigation can also prove difficult, especially if you encounter snow or harsh weather, so always check conditions before you go.

This route offers a unique opportunity to reach The Cheviot Summit, which stands as England's highest point outside the Lake District and Pennines. On clear days, you might even see as far as the Lake District from the summit. A true highlight of the Cheviot Hills is the impressive, craggy, and waterfall-filled Hen Hole, adding to the wild beauty of this Northumberland National Park adventure.

Lace up for the Warsett Hill & the Cleveland Coast loop, a moderate jogging route spanning 5.6 miles (9.0 km) with an elevation gain of 676 feet (206 metres), typically completed in about 1 hour and 2 minutes. This dynamic trail offers a mix of paths and tracks, winding along rugged cliffs and sections of the dramatic North Yorkshire coastline. You'll experience challenging climbs, especially the notable pull up Warsett Hill, which is the highest point on this part of the coast. From its summit, enjoy fabulous panoramic views of the coast and surrounding area, stretching towards Redcar and even Teesside on a clear day. Expect stunning seaside views, golden sands, and vibrant coastal wildflowers, particularly in summer, as you jog along this scenic loop.

As you plan your jog, be aware that the mixed terrain, consisting primarily of paths and tracks, can become muddy, especially after rain. Some parts of the path run close to the cliff edge, so exercise caution in these areas. The route also involves carefully crossing a railway line via stiles. While some sections offer easy cliff top walking, be prepared for uneven ground and demanding climbs.

Starting from Saltburn-by-the-Sea, you'll pass by the town's Victorian pier and cliff lift, adding a touch of historical charm to your journey. Along the coastal path, look out for the site of a Roman Signal Station at Huntcliff and the distinctive concrete ruin of the Guibal Fanhouse, a relic of the 19th-century ironstone mining industry. This loop incorporates a section of the Cleveland Way, a well-regarded National Trail, and features various sculptures dotted along the route, enriching your coastal jogging experience.

The Hamsterley Forest Loop offers a varied and engaging jogging experience through the heart of dense woodlands and alongside natural watercourses. This traffic-free environment provides picturesque scenery as you navigate primarily forest paths, which include sections of paved surfaces, gravel, natural ground, and even some road and asphalt. You'll encounter gentle climbs and descents throughout this moderate 5.1-mile (8.2 km) route, which features 615 feet (188 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 58 minutes to complete. Be prepared for a mixture of surfaces, including forest roads, gravel, grass, and mud, ensuring a diverse run.

This popular jogging route is known for its consistent running surface, making it a favorite among those seeking a moderate challenge. Hamsterley Forest itself is well-regarded for its extensive network of waymarked running trails, catering to various fitness levels. The forest provides a safe, traffic-free environment, making it a popular choice for outdoor activities and a great place to focus on your run without interruptions.

The Hamsterley Forest Loop stands out as the most frequented jogging route in the area, offering a prime example of the forest's diverse offerings. Beyond this loop, the wider forest network features dense woodlands, winding becks, and opportunities for wildlife watching, such as spotting roe deer or salmon. The forest also hosts a weekly Parkrun every Saturday and numerous running events throughout the year, highlighting its role as a community hub for runners.

Embark on the Three Becks Trail, a moderate jogging route spanning 5.0 miles (8.1 km) through the varied woodlands of Hamsterley Forest. You'll experience a rewarding workout with 571 feet (174 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 57 minutes. As you move, you'll pass through sections of pine, larch, beech, oak, and sycamore, with the vigorous Bedburn Beck, known for its peat-stained, toffee-brown water, accompanying you for much of the journey.

Planning your visit to Hamsterley Forest is straightforward, with a visitor center and cafe available for your convenience. Parking is generally accessible, and some parts of the trail are even suitable for prams, indicating good overall access for different visitors. Consider visiting in autumn to witness the spectacular golden hues of beech and the bright yellow highlights of birch trees.

This route offers more than just a scenic jog; it also provides a glimpse into the area's past. Keep an eye out for the ruin of Metcalf's House, an old drovers' inn that features a distinctive apse-shaped bread oven. This historical landmark adds a unique touch to your run, connecting you with the heritage of the forest as you enjoy the natural surroundings.

Embark on an easy jogging route with the Town Moor loop, a refreshing escape within Newcastle Upon Tyne. This 3.1-mile (5.0 km) trail offers a gentle workout, gaining only 114 feet (35 metres) in elevation, making it perfect for a quick 35-minute run. As you move, you will find yourself surrounded by expansive green fields, providing a sense of openness right in the city. Look out for the iconic Tyne Bridge in the distance, especially from higher points like Moor Edge, which offers clear city vistas. The terrain is generally firm, a mix of paved paths, gravel, and grassy sections, ensuring a varied but smooth experience. You might even see cattle grazing peacefully, adding a pastoral charm to your urban jog.

The Town Moor loop is easily accessible, whether you are coming from the city center or Jesmond, making it a convenient choice for your daily exercise. While the route is generally straightforward, be mindful that some sections can become muddy or accumulate puddles after rainfall. It is wise to choose your footwear accordingly; road shoes are usually sufficient, but be prepared for varied surfaces. This trail is ideal for a morning or afternoon jog, offering a pleasant outdoor experience without requiring extensive travel.

Historically, Town Moor has served as vital pastureland, a tradition that continues today with cattle often seen grazing across its vast expanse. This unique blend of urban proximity and rural character sets the loop apart, offering a glimpse into the area's heritage. The route also connects seamlessly with Exhibition Park, providing additional green space and opportunities to extend your outing if you wish to explore further. It is a notable green lung within the city, cherished by locals for its accessibility and natural beauty.

Embark on the Marsden & Whitburn loop from Souter Lighthouse, a moderate jogging route that offers sweeping coastal vistas. You'll cover 6.7 miles (10.9 km) with an elevation gain of 243 feet (74 metres), typically taking 1 hour and 10 minutes to complete. The trail winds along dramatic sea cliffs and sandy stretches, passing the historic Souter Lighthouse and the distinctive Marsden Rock. Expect a refreshing workout with the sound of waves accompanying you.

Before you set out, be aware that parts of this coastal path can become quite muddy, particularly during winter months. The route features undulating terrain and includes some steep steps leading down to Marsden Beach, so choosing suitable footwear is important for comfort and safety. Always maintain a safe distance from cliff edges as you enjoy the views. This jogging trail is accessible year-round, but checking local weather conditions is always a good idea.

This route is notable for its rich natural environment, taking you through nature reserves where you can spot diverse seabirds and wildflowers. The iconic Marsden Rock, a sea stack, provides a dramatic focal point along the journey, shaped by centuries of coastal erosion. The historic Souter Lighthouse, the world's first lighthouse purpose-built to run on alternating current, marks both the start and end of your loop, offering a glimpse into maritime history.