4.4
(59)
8,937
runners
410
runs
Jogging around Blubberhouses provides access to routes characterized by reservoirs, woodlands, and gentle hills. The landscape features a mix of open moorland and sheltered forest paths, offering varied terrain for runners. This region is known for its accessible trails that often follow water bodies or wind through forested areas.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
5.0
(3)
382
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
254
runners
5.22km
00:33
50m
50m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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49
runners
13.2km
01:37
270m
270m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
30
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
runners
12.3km
01:19
130m
130m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Some stunning views here overlooking the morrs and down to Denton
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Valve house just north of Swinsty Cottage at the eastern edge of Swinsty Reservoir dam. Presumably still in operation and working effectively. Back in 2011 the valves at the adjacent Fewston Reservoir were found to be leaking and were repaired by Blackhall Valvologists https://blackhall.co.uk/fewston-reservoir-valve-repair-refurbishment.html
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Cracking location from which to explore. Reasonably well-sized car park (about 25 spaces) immediately accessible from the A59. Head south to walk around Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs along very easy and well-maintained tracks, or even better, head north up the River Washburn for a serene woodland walk along the babbling river's edge, to eventually pop out at the very imposing face of Thruscross Reservoir dam. If this car park is full, then try Swinsty Moor Plantation or Fewston village if heading south, or try the bigger car park at Thruscross Reservoir if heading north.
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If you are enthusiastic enough to walk around all three reservoirs (Thruscross, Fewston, and Swinsty), clocking in at 15 miles, then you will see that Thruscross has the most spectacular dam of the three. If you follow the track from the car park at the western end of the dam, to the south towards the River Washburn, a track that descends quite steeply, then you will be rewarded with imposing views of the face of the dam.
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Small bridge at the southern end of the dam allows you to peer over and see the overflow for Fewston Reservoir and the sloping masonry weirs that channel overflow down into Swinsty Reservoir. Great views of both reservoirs northwest to Fewston and southeast to Swinsty.
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Good quality paths all the way around Thruscross, Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs, with parking at Swinsty Moor Plantation, Fewston village, Blubberhouses, and Thruscross Reservoir dam. If you do all 3 reservoirs then that clocks in at a 15-mile route, but is well worth it. The paths around the southern reservoirs are generally wide and flat. There are benches at periodic intervals on the eastern side of Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs, where you can take a break and admire the views.
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Easy to access and walk along the water's edge, levels quite low in spring of 2025 (see photos).
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There are over 400 running routes around Blubberhouses, catering to various fitness levels. The landscape features a mix of open moorland, sheltered forest paths, and reservoir-side trails.
Yes, Blubberhouses offers several easy jogging routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Fewston Reservoir Dam – Fewston Reservoir loop from Little Timble is a moderate 5.2 km (3.2 miles) trail that can be completed in about 33 minutes, offering gentle paths along the reservoir.
Many of the trails around Blubberhouses are suitable for running with dogs, especially those that traverse open moorland or forest paths. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly around livestock or nature reserves, and to check specific route details for any restrictions.
Yes, several routes are suitable for families. The paths around the reservoirs, such as sections of the Fewston Reservoir, often provide relatively flat and well-maintained surfaces, ideal for a family jog or walk. These routes typically offer scenic views and are less challenging.
Parking is available at various points around the reservoirs and trailheads. For instance, the Blubberhouses Car Park – View of Fewston Reservoir loop from Blubberhouses starts directly from a car park, making access convenient for runners.
The Blubberhouses area is rich in natural beauty. You can encounter stunning reservoir views, dense woodlands, and open moorland. For those interested in waterfalls, highlights like Posforth Gill Waterfall and Heber's Ghyll Wooden Bridges and Waterfalls are accessible near some routes.
Yes, many of the running routes in Blubberhouses are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Popular examples include the Tarn Hill Forest Path loop from Blubberhouses and the Fewston Reservoir loop from Great Timble, both offering scenic loops.
The running routes in Blubberhouses are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 60 reviews. Runners often praise the varied terrain, the peaceful reservoir-side paths, and the beautiful forest sections that offer a refreshing escape into nature.
Absolutely. For experienced runners seeking a greater challenge, routes like the Lippersley Pike summit cairn – Red Gate Trail loop from Great Timble offer a longer distance of 13.2 km (8.2 miles) and more significant elevation gain, providing a rewarding workout with expansive views.
While specific routes aren't designed around pub stops, the villages surrounding Blubberhouses, such as Great Timble, often have traditional pubs. You can plan your run to pass through or near these villages to enjoy a refreshment post-run. It's best to check local pub opening times in advance.
Blubberhouses, located in the Yorkshire Dales fringe, experiences typical British weather. Summers are generally mild, while winters can be cold and wet, with occasional snow on higher ground. The exposed moorland sections can be windy. Always check the local forecast before heading out and dress in layers, as conditions can change quickly.


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