The best running trails around Tunstall Reservoir
4.0
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552
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Jogging around Tunstall Reservoir offers a variety of routes through diverse landscapes. The region features reservoir-side paths, common land, and river valleys, providing a mix of flat and undulating terrain. Runners can explore areas around Wolsingham and Sand Edge Common, with routes ranging from gentle loops to more challenging trails with significant elevation gain.
Best jogging routes around Tunstall Reservoir
- The most popular jogging route is Tunstall Reservoir – Market Place, Wolsingham loop from Sand Edge Common, a 6.3 miles (10.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 6 minutes to complete, featuring paths around the reservoir and through local villages.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Tunstall Reservoir loop from Sand Edge Common, a moderate 6.0 miles (9.6 km) path. This route offers scenic views of the reservoir and surrounding common land, with some gentle climbs.
- Local runners also love the Weardale–Teesdale Pass (B6278) – Bollihope Limestone Quarry loop from Wolsingham, a 29.9 miles (48.2 km) trail leading through varied countryside and past limestone quarries, often completed in about 6 hours 4 minutes.
- Jogging around Tunstall Reservoir is defined by reservoir paths, common land, and river valleys, with options available for easy, moderate, and difficult ability levels.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 500 runners have used komoot to explore Tunstall Reservoir's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 29, 2026
14
runners
10.1km
01:06
100m
100m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
26
runners
48.2km
06:04
1,130m
1,130m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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10
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
runners
9.88km
01:08
210m
210m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Wear catchment stretches from the eastern North Pennines to the North Sea coast, encompassing the majority of County Durham. The river is formed at Wearhead, from the confluence of Burnhope and Killhope Burns, and flows east through Weardale to Bishop Auckland before turning north and flowing through Durham and Chester-le-Street before reaching the sea at Sunderland.
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A quiet picnic area alongside the Waskerley Beck with lots of parking. A number of walks are possible from here including the Family Walk, an easy circular route on footpaths accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs, 1.5 miles long.
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The Weardale Railway is an 18 mile heritage line running from a connection with the main rail network at Bishop Auckland to Eastgate in Weardale, County Durham, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Currently a 16 mile section of line between Bishop Auckland and Stanhope has been restored for passenger and freight use.
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Above Weardale, between Frosterley and Wolsingham are a bunch of trees that are supposed to resemble an elephant. I think a few years ago, a storm caused damage to the trees and now a bit of imagination is needed.
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The Forgotten Quarry (also known as Fine Burn Quarry) is a superb place for a walk during any season. This former limestone quarry forms a part of the Weardale Way, a long-distance footpath that follows the River Wear's journey from the Durham Dales to the North Sea, or vice versa. The path follows the course of a former railway track used to transport the mined limestone. Here, Bollihope Burn – a tributary of the River Wear, tumbles through woodland – creating a haven for wildlife.
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This Grade II listed building was constructed in 1869, though it has been closed to worshippers since 2019.
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Just beside the Bollihope Burn, you can go alongside this disused limestone quarry. It is often partially flooded with water, adding to the beauty of this picturesque place.
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really easy to get to just off public footpath from salters gate
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available around Tunstall Reservoir?
There are over 60 dedicated running routes around Tunstall Reservoir, catering to various fitness levels. You'll find a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult trails to explore.
Are there any easy running routes suitable for beginners or a relaxed jog?
Yes, while many routes are moderate, there is at least one easy running route available. These typically feature gentler terrain and shorter distances, perfect for a leisurely run or for those new to trail running.
Can I find circular jogging routes around Tunstall Reservoir?
Absolutely. Many of the running routes around Tunstall Reservoir are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the popular Tunstall Reservoir – Market Place, Wolsingham loop from Sand Edge Common is a great option.
What are the typical distances for running trails in the Tunstall Reservoir area?
Running trails in the Tunstall Reservoir area vary significantly in length. You can find shorter loops around 6 miles (10 km), such as the Tunstall Reservoir loop from Sand Edge Common, up to much longer and more challenging routes like the Weardale–Teesdale Pass (B6278) – Bollihope Limestone Quarry loop from Wolsingham, which is nearly 30 miles (48 km).
Are there any running routes that pass through villages or offer a mix of scenery?
Yes, several routes combine natural landscapes with glimpses of local villages. The Tunstall Reservoir – Market Place, Wolsingham loop from Sand Edge Common, for instance, takes you around the reservoir and through parts of local villages, offering varied scenery.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the running trails around Tunstall Reservoir?
The terrain is quite varied, featuring reservoir-side paths, open common land, and river valleys. You'll encounter a mix of flat sections and undulating climbs, with some routes, like those near Bollihope Limestone Quarry, offering more significant elevation changes.
Are there any running routes suitable for a longer, more challenging run?
For experienced runners seeking a challenge, routes like the Weardale–Teesdale Pass (B6278) – Bollihope Limestone Quarry loop from Wolsingham offer nearly 30 miles (48 km) with substantial elevation gain, typically taking over 6 hours to complete.
What do other runners say about the trails around Tunstall Reservoir?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.0 stars. Runners often praise the diverse landscapes, from reservoir views to common land and river valleys, and the variety of routes available for different skill levels.
Are there any running routes that follow river paths?
Yes, you can find routes that incorporate river paths. For example, the River Wear – The Weardale Railway loop from Wolsingham follows sections along the River Wear, offering a different scenic experience.
Are there any running routes near Tunstall Reservoir that explore the wider Weardale area?
Yes, some routes extend beyond the immediate reservoir vicinity into the broader Weardale region. The Wolsingham Railway Station – Path Along Waskerley Beck loop from Wolsingham is a longer, more challenging option that takes you through varied countryside in the area.
What are some notable features or landmarks I might see on a run around Tunstall Reservoir?
Beyond the reservoir itself, routes can take you past features like the Weardale–Teesdale Pass, Bollihope Limestone Quarry, and sections of the Weardale Railway, offering historical and geological points of interest.
Most popular routes around Tunstall Reservoir
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