The best running trails around Oldham

Oldham offers a wide variety of running routes, with over 340 options available on komoot. These routes cater to all abilities, from easy park runs to challenging moorland ascents.

The running routes in Oldham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 5,500 runners have used komoot to explore Oldham's varied terrain, often praising the diverse landscapes and scenic views.

Yes, Oldham has plenty of options for all fitness levels. You can find 31 easy running routes, many of which are located in country parks or around reservoirs with relatively flat paths. An example is the easy 2.4-mile (3.8 km) path around Yeoman Hey & Greenfield Reservoirs, offering scenic views.

Absolutely. Many of Oldham's most popular running routes are circular, especially those around the numerous reservoirs. For instance, the Dovestone Reservoir – Yeoman Hey Reservoir loop from Greenfield is a moderate 7.7 km circular route, perfect for a scenic run.

Yes, the region around Oldham features several beautiful waterfalls that can be incorporated into your runs. Notable spots include Birchen Clough Waterfall and Greenfield Brook Waterfalls. The Oldham Way also winds through varied terrain, including areas where you might encounter smaller cascades.

Oldham offers several family-friendly options, particularly in its country parks. Daisy Nook Country Park, for example, has accessible towpaths, woodlands, and play areas. Tandle Hill Country Park also provides varied terrain suitable for families. For shorter, accessible runs, consider the paths around reservoirs like Dovestone.

Generally, dogs are welcome on most public footpaths and trails in Oldham, including many running routes. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially around livestock, wildlife, and other visitors, and to follow the Countryside Code. Specific rules may apply in certain nature reserves or private lands.

For breathtaking views, head to the routes on the edge of the Peak District National Park and the Saddleworth Moors. The Redbrook Reservoir loop offers stunning vistas. Tandle Hill Country Park also provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from its open grasslands.

For those seeking a longer challenge, the 40-mile (64 km) Oldham Way circular route offers varied scenery from canals and reservoirs to hilltops. Additionally, routes like the Redbrook Reservoir – Black Hill Summit Trig Point loop from Greenfield provide a challenging 45 km run with significant elevation.

Oldham's running routes feature a diverse range of terrain. You can expect rugged moorlands with significant elevation gains, tranquil reservoir paths (often flatter), woodlands, and well-maintained country park trails. This variety ensures options for different preferences, from challenging trail runs to smoother, more accessible jogs.

Yes, Oldham has several options for 5k runs. Many of the shorter routes around reservoirs or within country parks are approximately 5k. Additionally, Oldham hosts regular Parkrun events at locations like Alexandra Park and Chadderton Hall Park, offering free, timed 5k runs every week.

Yes, Oldham Council provides a range of outdoor gyms, some of which are designed as fitness trails winding through parks and green spaces. These offer a great way to combine your run with strength and conditioning exercises. You can find more information on the Oldham Council website.

Oldham's routes often pass by significant natural and historical landmarks. You might encounter the Alphin Pike summit and trig point, the iconic Pots and Pans Stone, or the historic Park Bridge Heritage Centre. The numerous reservoirs themselves, such as Dovestone and Yeoman Hey, are also picturesque points of interest.