5.0
(2)
538
runners
11
runs
Jogging around Wauchope Forest offers a diverse landscape for runners, characterized by extensive coniferous plantations and native broadleaf trees. The terrain includes rolling hills and open moorland, providing varied inclines and expansive views across the border country. Several streams, known as burns, wind through the area, adding to the natural features. This mixed woodland environment provides a refreshing backdrop for running.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
5
runners
7.84km
01:00
160m
160m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
388
runners
42.7km
05:04
390m
390m
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…

Sign up for free
29
runners
13.6km
01:35
470m
470m
Prepare for a difficult jogging experience on the Deadwater Fell from Kielder trail, covering 8.5 miles (13.6 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1534 feet (468 metres), typically taking…
28
runners
11.3km
01:21
410m
420m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
19
runners
34.4km
03:58
500m
500m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The Tower Knowe Visitor Centre, run by Kielder Water & Forest Park, is an information center and café on the banks of Kielder Water. The café is a great place to refuel if you're walking the 42-kilometer Lakeside Way, or a good starting and finishing point for a shorter run. The café is open from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with food served from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
8
0
Kielder Castle is a charming 18th-century hunting lodge in Northumberland, built in 1775 for the Duke of Northumberland. Today, it serves as a vibrant visitor center and the starting point for numerous walking and cycling routes, including the famous Lakeside Way. Although the castle is currently undergoing renovations, the information center remains open and the surrounding facilities are accessible. It's an ideal base for exploring England's largest forest. It houses the Kielder Visitor Center and the Cafe at the Castle.
11
0
The Kielder Viaduct in Northumberland is a masterpiece of Victorian railway engineering from the 19th century, with seven skewed stone arches and an ornate baronial style replete with battlements and loopholes—custom-built for the Duke of Northumberland. Once transporting coal and timber to Scotland, it is now a monumental jewel on Kielder Reservoir, saved from demolition and reborn as part of the Lakeside Way: a scenic walkway. The viaduct is not only technically impressive but also culturally enriched with ornate wrought iron panels, designed by children and forged by local craftspeople.
9
0
Huge wooden head, unfortunately damaged so you can't access it anymore
0
0
Wauchope Forest offers a selection of 11 dedicated running routes. These range in difficulty, ensuring options for various fitness levels, from easy strolls to challenging long-distance runs.
Yes, Wauchope Forest has routes suitable for beginners and families. There is 1 easy route, and several moderate options that provide a good balance of challenge and accessibility. The forest's well-maintained trails, often wide, firm gravel tracks, are ideal for a pleasant jog.
The jogging trails in Wauchope Forest feature a diverse landscape. You'll encounter extensive coniferous plantations mixed with native broadleaf trees, rolling hills, and open moorland. Many trails are wide, firm gravel tracks, but some, like sections of the Jonny's Trail, include uneven earth, stone, and steeper sections, offering a varied experience.
Absolutely! Wauchope Forest is rich in natural beauty. You can enjoy tranquil streams like the Catlee Burn and the Hyndlee Burn, which wind through the terrain. Keep an eye out for the Footbridge Over Hyndlee Burn. The Wigg Plantation offers a beautiful woodland setting, and as you ascend, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding border country and the distant Cheviot Hills from spots like the Wauchope Forest Scenic Road.
The running routes in Wauchope Forest are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average score of 5.0 stars. Over 500 runners have explored the varied terrain, often praising the quiet woodlands, diverse landscapes, and the sense of tranquility found on the trails.
Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, Wauchope Forest and its surroundings offer several difficult long-distance routes. One such option is the demanding Kielder Lakeside Way, which spans 42.7 km and takes over 5 hours to complete, featuring varied lakeside scenery. Another challenging run is the Kielder Water Cycle Path – Kielder Viaduct loop from Kielder, covering 34.2 km.
Yes, many of the running routes in Wauchope Forest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular moderate circular route is the Running loop from Peat Law, which is 7.8 km long. For a more challenging circular option, consider the Deadwater Fell loop from Kielder — Northumberland National Park.
Wauchope Forest is generally dog-friendly, offering a natural environment for you and your canine companion. While specific leash rules may vary, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially given the presence of wildlife like red squirrels and goshawks. The varied trails provide ample space for both you and your dog to enjoy a run.
Absolutely. If you're looking for a more intense workout, routes like Deadwater Fell from Kielder offer significant elevation gain. This 13.6 km path features challenging climbs, rewarding runners with panoramic views from the fell.
Wauchope Forest is home to diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for red squirrels in the tree canopies and goshawks soaring overhead. The area is also important for other species such as black grouse and juniper, adding to the natural experience of your run.
Yes, Wauchope Forest provides practical amenities for visitors, including parking areas. This makes it convenient to access the various jogging trails and enjoy your time in the forest.


Browse the best Running Trails & Routes in other regions.