The best running trails around Alston Moor
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293
runners
18
runs
Jogging around Alston Moor offers diverse landscapes within the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region is characterized by vast, rolling moorlands and fells, providing panoramic views and a sense of tranquility. River valleys, carved by the River South Tyne and River Nent, feature impressive waterfalls and distinctive wide V-forms. The geology includes alternating bands of mudstone, sandstone, and limestone, contributing to varied terrain for running.
Best jogging routes around Alston Moor
- The most popular jogging route is…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
5
runners
10.5km
01:10
180m
190m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
runners
4.57km
00:34
90m
90m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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10
runners
31.8km
03:53
720m
720m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
runners
14.4km
01:34
230m
230m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Alston Moor
GB Divide — Great Britain end to end off-road on GBDURO
GBDURO 2021 — Gravel racing Land's End to John O'Groats
Isaac's Tea Trail — Walk the wild serenity of the North Pennines
C2C — Cycling spectacular wilderness from coast to coast
Pennine Way – Take on England's ultimate long-distance hike
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Cycling around Alston Moor
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Tips from the Community
The highest mountain in England outside of the Lake district, fantastic views if you can catch it on a clear day.
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This is a nice trail that follows the river from Ashgill Waterfall down to Garrigill along the South Tyne Trail. There are nice pools and small cascades along the way to stop off and have a paddle if you wish. Overall, a nice scenic walk.
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This is a beautiful waterfall, easily accessible from the bridge above it, where there is some roadside parking. It does get busy, however, especially with gorge walking groups. Otherwise, you can walk up from Garrigill in about half an hour. The falls are in a great setting, with the bridge arching over the waterfall itself. It makes for a great photo stop or rest stop. You can also walk behind the waterfall. Please be careful in the area, as it is slippery underfoot, and avoid after prolonged rain for obvious reasons.
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Not the oldest churches in the world, but a very attractive one, and adds to the general ambience of Garrigill village, which is a peaceful haven to whittle away a few hours. As is normal these days, the church yard is overgrown with vegetation in order to conserve the local wildlife. The church is open all day if you want to talk to the boss!
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Beldy Waterfall is on the back road, just outside Garrigil. There is not much chance to get down to it as it looks overgrown and there is no obvious access. It is a pretty little waterfall, however, and worth a quick look.
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Sandwiched between Cross Fell and Great Dun Fell is Little Dun Fell. This is a super hill to do, and the walking route to it from both of the aforementioned hills forms part of the Pennine Way, so it is slabbed with stone and well maintained. Little Dun Fell, however, is somewhat overshadowed by its more famous northern and southern neighbours, but I prefer this hill to the others. The views across to Cross Fell and Great Dun Fell are super nice, raw, and barren, with nothing in between just the path of the Pennine Way. It also has a small cairn on the top, and at 842 metres, it is also a UK-designated nuttall.
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Great Dun Fell is a great hill to do, and at 848 metres high, it is a UK designated Nuttall. Coming up from Milburn is a great hike, but a tad boggy in places. It also gives you a stiff hike with around 700 metres of height gain. It is all worth it, however, as the views out over the North Pennines are super expansive from out over the eastern side of the hill, a virtual moonscape of moorland. On the western side, you have distant views of the Lake District. There is a cairn on the top, but the true summit sits within the communications compound, which has restricted access.
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A beautiful hill to hike and a glorious summit to have a break on. It has a wide plateaued top with a number of impressive stone cairns, as well as a trig point and a great dry stone cross shelter. I hiked the Kirkland loop, and this was a particularly nice loop to do. There is not that much of a view from the summit itself because it is so big and flat, but the views to and from it are really nice, in particular over towards Little Dun Fell.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many jogging routes are available in Alston Moor?
Alston Moor offers a selection of over 18 dedicated jogging routes, catering to various fitness levels and preferences. These routes range from easy riverside paths to challenging fell runs across the North Pennines.
Are there easy running routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Alston Moor has easy running options perfect for beginners or a family outing. For instance, the Ashgill Force circular from Garrigill — North Pennines is an easy 2.8-mile (4.6 km) path that is suitable for any fitness level and includes picturesque scenery, such as the notable Ashgill Force waterfall.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Alston Moor's running trails?
The terrain in Alston Moor is quite varied, reflecting its diverse landscape. You'll find everything from mostly paved surfaces on easier routes, such as the Ashgill Force circular, to more challenging high fells and moorlands on longer runs like the Greg's Hut – Cross Fell Summit loop. The region is characterized by rolling moorlands, river valleys, and impressive waterfalls, offering a mix of surfaces.
Are there any circular running routes in Alston Moor?
Yes, Alston Moor features several circular running routes. A popular choice is the Ashgill Force circular from Garrigill, which is an easy and scenic option. The broader Isaac's Tea Trail is also a renowned 36-mile circular route, with sections like the Isaac's Tea Trail offering a 6.5-mile loop.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features I might see while running in Alston Moor?
Alston Moor's running routes offer stunning natural features and historical landmarks. You can encounter impressive waterfalls like Ashgill Force, where you can even walk behind the 50-foot cascade. The area also boasts vast moorlands and fells, offering panoramic views, and you might spot the dramatically-sited Epiacum Roman Fort (Whitley Castle) on some trails.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Alston Moor?
The running routes in Alston Moor are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 2 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil river valleys to expansive moorlands, and the sense of isolation and natural beauty found in this 'Roof of England'.
Are there any long-distance running trails that pass through Alston Moor?
Yes, Alston Moor is a central point for renowned long-distance routes. The Pennine Way and Isaac's Tea Trail both traverse the area. The Isaac's Tea Trail is a 36-mile circular route, and you can experience a section of it on the Isaac's Tea Trail route, which covers 6.5 miles.
Can I find routes with significant elevation gain for a more challenging run?
Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, Alston Moor, being part of the North Pennines, offers routes with substantial elevation gain. The Greg's Hut – Cross Fell Summit loop from Alston Moor is a difficult 19.7-mile (31.8 km) trail that includes over 700 meters of ascent, leading through high fells and moorlands to the highest point in the Pennines.
Is Alston Moor a good place for stargazing after a run?
Yes, the North Pennines, including Alston Moor, boasts some of the darkest skies in the UK. This makes it an ideal location for stargazing, away from urban light pollution, offering a unique way to unwind after a day of exploring the trails.
What is the best time of year to go running in Alston Moor?
Alston Moor offers beautiful running conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and summer bring vibrant heather blooms and milder weather, while autumn provides stunning colors. The region's diverse landscapes mean you can find suitable routes in most seasons, though higher fells may require more caution in winter due to snow and challenging conditions.
Are there any routes that offer views of Cross Fell, the highest point in the Pennines?
Yes, many routes in Alston Moor offer views of or even ascend Cross Fell. The Greg's Hut – Cross Fell Summit loop from Alston Moor directly takes you to the summit, providing far-reaching views that can extend to the Lake District and even Scotland on a clear day.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the running routes in Alston Moor?
Alston, as England's highest market town, serves as a welcoming base for outdoor adventurers. You'll find quaint shops, cafes, and pubs in its cobbled streets, perfect for a post-run refreshment. Many routes start or pass near the town, making it convenient to grab a bite or a drink.
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