4.3
(3)
382
runners
42
runs
Jogging around Virginstow offers a variety of routes through the rural landscape of West Devon. The area is characterized by rolling hills, open countryside, and the presence of Roadford Lake, providing diverse terrain for running. Trails often follow quiet country lanes, woodland edges, and lakeside paths. The region's elevation changes are generally moderate, with some routes featuring ascents up to 230 meters.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
21.3km
02:19
230m
230m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Some sure footedness required.
5.0
(1)
79
runners
9.71km
01:05
100m
100m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(1)
7
runners
6.74km
00:44
100m
100m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
runners
7.39km
00:47
80m
80m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
7
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Virginstow
Witherdon Wood is managed by Forestry England. It's a mixed woodland with some large tracks running through it.
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Roadford Lake is a reservoir fed by the river Wolf. It's the largest area of water in the south-west and is used to supply drinking water for north and South Devon. As a runner there isn't a trail that allows you to circumnavigate the lake, but you can run along the northeastern shore.
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Roadford lake was once farmland before being flooded to create a reservoir in 1989. The water in the lake supplies North Devon and anything over capacity runs into the River Tamar. The concrete structure that can be seen from the dam is the valve tower. On open days, usually twice a year, it is possible to walk in the tunnels underneath the water and up the tower, which provides spectacular views.
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Roadford Lake is set just outside Dartmoor National Park so is the perfect place for a rolling ride with a backdrop of dramatic tors and hills. You can tur your hand at plenty of watersports here including sailing, kayaking, fishing and paddleboarding. For further details please see the website https://www.swlakestrust.org.uk/pages/site/activities/category/roadford-lake
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Picturesque freshwater lake. The largest freshwater lake in the Southwest. The lake has a large activity centre. Canoeing, fishing, archery and windsurfing amongst others. The centre also has a fantastic cafe serving quality freshly prepared food and drink.
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There are over 40 running routes available around Virginstow, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored 42 unique tours in the area.
Yes, Virginstow offers several easy running routes suitable for beginners. There are 6 identified easy tours, characterized by gentle hills and lakeside paths, providing a pleasant introduction to running in the area.
Running trails around Virginstow vary in length. For example, the Running loop from Lifton is about 4.2 miles (6.7 km), while the Roadford Lake & Germansweek loop from Headson car park extends to 13.3 miles (21.3 km). You'll find options ranging from shorter, quicker runs to longer, more challenging distances.
While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always explicit, routes with moderate difficulty and relatively flat terrain, such as those around Roadford Lake, can be suitable for families. Look for shorter, easier routes that avoid significant elevation changes.
Many trails in the rural landscape of West Devon are dog-friendly, especially those on public footpaths or bridleways. However, it's always best to check local signage, especially around farmlands or nature reserves, and keep dogs on a lead where livestock may be present or during nesting seasons. The lakeside paths around Roadford Lake are generally popular for dog walking.
The terrain around Virginstow is diverse, featuring rolling hills, open countryside, quiet country lanes, woodland edges, and lakeside paths, particularly around Roadford Lake. Elevation changes are generally moderate, with some routes having ascents up to 230 meters, offering a mix of flat sections and gentle climbs.
Yes, many of the running routes around Virginstow are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular example is the Roadford Reservoir – Upper Tamar Lake Café loop from Broadwoodwidger, which offers scenic views and brings you back to your starting point.
Along the running routes, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the rural landscape, including open fields and woodlands. Many routes offer extensive views of Roadford Lake. You might also pass by charming villages and quiet country lanes.
Parking is typically available at popular trailheads or designated car parks. For instance, the Roadford Lake & Germansweek loop starts from Headson car park. For other routes, checking the specific route details on komoot will often provide information on nearby parking facilities.
The running routes in Virginstow are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from 3 reviews. Runners often praise the varied terrain, the scenic views, especially around Roadford Lake, and the peaceful, rural atmosphere that makes for an enjoyable running experience.
Yes, some routes offer opportunities for a refreshment stop. The Roadford Reservoir – Upper Tamar Lake Café loop from Lakeside Cafe, for example, starts and ends near a cafe, providing a convenient spot for a pre or post-run drink or snack. For other routes, you might find pubs in nearby villages.
While the main routes around Roadford Lake are well-known, exploring the network of quiet country lanes and lesser-used footpaths can reveal quieter, less-trafficked trails. The Wrenchford Plantation loop from Bridgetown offers a moderate run through woodland, which might feel like a hidden gem compared to the more popular lakeside paths.


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