4.8
(3)
184
runners
14
runs
Jogging around Little Paxton offers access to a diverse landscape, primarily centered around the Paxton Pits Nature Reserve. The region is characterized by a mosaic of habitats including lakes formed from disused gravel quarries, areas of woodland and scrub, and open meadows. Little Paxton lies on the western side of the River Great Ouse floodplain, with trails often following the riverbanks. The terrain is predominantly flat, providing accessible conditions for running.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
5.0
(1)
10
runners
5.23km
00:33
10m
10m
Jog the 3.3-mile Paxton Pits running loop, a moderate route through Paxton Pits Nature Reserve with lake views and diverse wildlife.
48
runners
29.3km
03:05
100m
100m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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14
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
19
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
runners
8.18km
00:56
10m
10m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Small door at the base of the tree welcoming all fairies.
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There are two species of newt in this pond: great-crested and smooth. These amphibians use the pond to breed and can often be seen moving around amongst the plants on bright days. The eggs are neatly placed inside a rolled up leaf for protection. The pond is regularly visited by dragon- and damselflies, sometimes ducks and moornens or the odd occasion! Source: Local signage
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Bardon Aggregates welcomes you to their Little Paxton quarry and hope you are enjoying your walk. We are delighted to have played our part in the creation of the Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest.
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Caught this Heron standing fishing in the middle of Washout Pit.
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This is where the original farm stood: you can still see its foundations in the short grass. It was abandoned during the early 1960s when most of the farm became part of the gravel pits. Nowadays, the area is a flower rich grassland area, supporting many meadow species. There also used to be a ferry here which would transport people over the river so they could get to Great Paxton
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This marks the site of a Victorian house called 'Wray House'. All that remain now are some garden trees and shrubs such as Lavender, Periwinkle, Douglas Fir and Norway Spruce. It can be found to the right of the wooden walkway to Kingfisher Hide.
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This area of rough grassland interspersed with Hawthorn and Dog Rose bushes provides ideal feeding and nesting areas for Nightingales. Between the end of April and the beginning of June male Nightingales sing to attract a mate.
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Little Paxton offers a diverse network of running paths, primarily within the Paxton Pits Nature Reserve. You'll find trails winding around former gravel pit lakes, alongside the River Great Ouse, and through areas of woodland, scrub, and open meadows. The terrain is generally flat, making it accessible for various fitness levels.
Yes, Little Paxton has several easy running options. The region's flat terrain and well-maintained paths within the Paxton Pits Nature Reserve are ideal. While the guide highlights moderate routes, many sections of the reserve offer gentle loops perfect for a relaxed jog. For a specific route, consider the Paxton Pits running loop, which is a moderate 3.3 miles (5.2 km) but very popular and accessible.
Absolutely! The Paxton Pits running loop is approximately 3.3 miles (5.2 km), making it a perfect option for a 5k run. It offers varied scenery through the nature reserve's lakes, meadows, and woodland.
Many of the trails within the Paxton Pits Nature Reserve are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy a run with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially given the reserve's rich wildlife and birdlife. Look for specific signage regarding dog access on individual paths.
The running routes in Little Paxton are rich with natural beauty. You'll primarily be jogging through the Paxton Pits Nature Reserve, which features several lakes like Heronry South Lake and Sailing Lake. Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife from observation hides like the Wildlife Lake Bird Hide or the Kingfisher Hide. The routes also follow sections of the River Great Ouse, offering pleasant riverside views.
Yes, many of the running routes in Little Paxton are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Paxton Pits running loop and the Ouse Valley Way – Nightingale Grassland loop from Little Paxton, which offers riverside views.
The running routes in Little Paxton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars from over 3 reviews. Runners often praise the varied scenery, the accessibility of the flat trails, and the opportunity to observe wildlife within the nature reserve.
For those looking for a longer challenge, Little Paxton offers routes that extend further. The Sailing Lake loop from Little Paxton is a moderate 9.3 miles (15.0 km) trail. For an even more demanding run, consider the Lammas Meadow – Priory Park loop from Little Paxton, which is a difficult 29.1 km (18.1 miles) route.
Yes, the Paxton Pits Nature Reserve, which is the hub for many running routes, includes a small car park for visitors. This makes it convenient to access the trails and facilities.
Little Paxton is a village in Cambridgeshire. While specific public transport links directly to trailheads might vary, local bus services typically connect the village to nearby towns. It's advisable to check local bus timetables for routes serving Little Paxton to plan your journey to the nature reserve.
The Paxton Pits Nature Reserve features a visitor centre where you can find refreshments, bird food, and expert advice. Toilets are also available at the visitor centre, providing convenient facilities for runners before or after their activity.
Little Paxton's trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful natural scenery, with migratory birds in the nature reserve. Summer is great for longer daylight hours, while winter can provide crisp, quiet runs, though paths might be muddy after rain. The flat terrain generally makes it accessible in most conditions.


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