The best running trails around Grafham Water
4.5
(38)
4,333
runners
251
runs
Jogging around Grafham Water offers a unique experience on well-maintained paths surrounding the reservoir. The terrain is generally flat with minor undulations, making it accessible for various fitness levels. The area features a mix of open water views, woodlands, and grassy banks, providing a varied landscape for runners. The routes primarily follow the perimeter of the reservoir, ensuring consistent scenic views.
Best jogging routes around Grafham Water
- The most popular jogging route is Grafham Water running loop, an 8.8 miles (14.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 34 minutes to complete. This route offers a full circuit of the reservoir with consistent views.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Valve Tower at Grafham Water loop from Perry, a moderate 3.3 miles (5.3 km) path. This shorter loop provides a quick run with views of the iconic Valve Tower.
- Local runners also love the Valve Tower at Grafham Water loop from Grafham, a 6.2 miles (10.0 km) trail leading through woodlands and along the reservoir edge, often completed in about 1 hour 2 minutes.
- Jogging around Grafham Water is defined by expansive reservoir views, peaceful woodlands, and open parkland. The network offers options for different ability levels, from short, easy runs to longer, more challenging circuits.
- The routes in Grafham Water are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 4000 runners have used komoot to explore Grafham Water's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
4.5
(6)
606
runners
14.1km
01:35
70m
70m
Embark on the Grafham Water running loop, a moderate 8.8-mile (14.1 km) journey around England's third-largest reservoir, offering a rewarding experience for joggers. You will gain about 238 feet (73 metres) in elevation over approximately 1 hour and 34 minutes, traversing well-maintained paths that vary from paved sections to gravel and natural earth. The trail provides consistent, expansive views of the water, especially from the impressive Grafham Dam at the start, and winds through peaceful woodlands, open parkland, and grassy banks, with notable features like the iconic Valve Tower and Sanctuary Bay along the way.
This multi-use path is popular with cyclists and walkers, making it a lively spot. You will find convenient facilities such as a visitor center, cafes, and picnic areas, perfect for a post-run refuel or a family outing. While most of the loop is off-road, be aware that about 1.5 miles at the southern end runs on a road. The varied surfaces and generally flat terrain make it accessible for different fitness levels, though the full distance requires good endurance.
Grafham Water is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, boasting a rich natural environment with diverse wildlife. As you jog, you might spot various birds from strategically placed hides in the reed beds and wetlands. Created in the 1960s as a reservoir, the area now hosts organized running events, including 10K and Half Marathon trail races, adding to its appeal as a premier destination for outdoor activity in Cambridgeshire.
5.0
(1)
72
runners
5.35km
00:33
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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35
runners
8.27km
00:51
30m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
runners
17.5km
01:53
100m
100m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Good riding around Graffam Lake but North side can be very bumpy on the bound gravel track (its not loose gravel). Great ride though at about 10 miles around. Highly recomended.
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Rode this route 04/08/24 tough going for kids... long grass etc but a great ride. watch out at Santa Pod raceway if there is an event on.
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Ride with caution, mountain bike may cope better than my hybrid did.
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From here you can access the cycle/walking path along the top of the dam which gives great views up the length of Grafham Water.
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The cycle path along the top of the dam is wide and flat and gives great views across the reservoir. Reach it from the Visitor Centre at the northern end although access at the southern end is trickier as you have to squeeze through a narrow gap next to a locked gate by the main road.
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This is a beautiful bay situated on the shores of Grafham Water, not too far from St Neots in Huntingdonshire. The lake is a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest and England's third biggest reservoir.
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The valve tower at Grafham Lake homes the controls that operate the opening and closing of the gates/valves allowing the reservoir water to be correctly regulated. The tower was built in the 1960s and resembles something of a spaceship!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical terrain like for running around Grafham Water?
The terrain around Grafham Water is generally flat with minor undulations, making it accessible for various fitness levels. You'll find a mix of well-maintained paths, open water views, woodlands, and grassy banks, providing a varied and enjoyable landscape for runners.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly running routes at Grafham Water?
Yes, Grafham Water offers several easier routes. Out of over 250 running tours available, approximately 37 are classified as easy. These routes are perfect for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed run. For example, the Valve Tower at Grafham Water loop from Perry is a moderate 5.3 km (3.3 miles) path that provides a quicker run with scenic views.
How long does it take to jog around the entire Grafham Water reservoir?
The full circuit of the reservoir, known as the Grafham Water running loop, is approximately 14.1 km (8.8 miles) long. Most runners complete this route in about 1 hour 34 minutes, offering consistent views of the water.
Are there any circular running routes available?
Yes, most of the popular running routes at Grafham Water are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. The most popular is the full Grafham Water running loop, but shorter options like the Valve Tower at Grafham Water loop from Grafham (10.0 km) are also available.
What kind of scenic views can I expect on the running trails?
Running routes at Grafham Water are defined by expansive reservoir views, peaceful woodlands, and open parkland. Many paths follow the perimeter of the reservoir, ensuring consistent water views, while others lead through wooded sections, offering a varied natural landscape.
Are there any specific landmarks or points of interest to see while running?
A notable landmark is the iconic Valve Tower, which can be seen on several routes. The Valve Tower at Grafham Water loop from Perry is a shorter route specifically designed to offer views of this structure. The varied landscape itself, with its mix of water and woodlands, provides continuous visual interest.
What do other runners say about the trails at Grafham Water?
The running routes at Grafham Water are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 20 reviews. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the consistent scenic views of the reservoir, and the peaceful atmosphere of the woodlands.
Are there options for longer, more challenging runs?
Absolutely. While many routes are moderate, there are also more challenging options. For instance, the Steep Dirt Path – Grafham Water Main Car Park loop from Perry is a difficult 17.6 km (10.9 miles) route with more elevation gain, offering a greater challenge for experienced runners.
Can I find running routes that are suitable for families?
Yes, many of the easier and shorter routes around Grafham Water are suitable for families, especially those with children who enjoy running or walking. The generally flat terrain and well-maintained paths make it accessible. Look for routes classified as 'easy' or shorter 'moderate' loops for a family-friendly experience.
Is there good parking available for accessing the running trails?
Grafham Water has several car parks strategically located around the reservoir, making it convenient to access various sections of the running trails. The main car park is a popular starting point for many routes, including the longer circuits.
How many running routes are available in total around Grafham Water?
There are over 250 running routes and tours available around Grafham Water on komoot, catering to a wide range of abilities and preferences, from short, easy jogs to longer, more challenging runs.
Most popular routes around Grafham Water
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