4.5
(18)
1,644
runners
149
runs
Jogging around Mattersey offers an excellent way to explore the region's predominantly flat landscapes. The area is characterized by tranquil riverbanks along the River Idle, expansive nature reserves like Idle Valley, and pastoral farmland. These features provide diverse and scenic backdrops for running, with many routes following accessible paths.
Last updated: August 6, 2026
191
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
23
runners
11.2km
01:10
70m
70m
Moderate run. 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.
6
runners
4.61km
00:32
30m
30m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Cross the canal here and down the steps walking along the tow path.
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Bank side ride of River Idle to Tiln. Grassed hard pan wheel tracks in the summer. Gates to lift over at beginning and end.
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This is an area of old quarrying which was rejuvenated into a series of lakes and wetland area. Now managed by the parish council of Lound it's a small nature reserve.
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Viewing area just off the Chain Bridge Lane, perfect for birdwatchers, panoramic views of the wetlands in the Northern half of the Idle Valley Nature Reserve
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"Off-Road" dusty (in summer) gravel road, accessible by car and wide enough to park on. Cuts across the middle of the Nature Reserve giving access to the heart of it.
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St Michael the Archangel's Church is a Grade II* listed parish church in the Church of England in Retford, Nottinghamshire, England.
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Lovely little cafe with a good menu (especially the breakfast one) and great cakes and coffee. Definitely worth a ride out.
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Mattersey offers a wide selection of running routes, with over 150 trails available for exploration. These routes cater to various fitness levels, ranging from easy paths to more challenging distances.
The jogging trails around Mattersey are characterized by predominantly flat landscapes. You'll find routes along tranquil riverbanks, through expansive nature reserves like the Idle Valley Nature Reserve, and across pastoral farmland, offering diverse and scenic backdrops for your run.
Yes, Mattersey has several easy running routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Path Over Fallen Tree loop from Clayworth is an easy 2.9-mile (4.6 km) trail that takes about 32 minutes to complete, leading through typical English countryside.
Many of Mattersey's predominantly flat routes are suitable for families. Trails within the Idle Valley Nature Reserve, such as the Idle Valley Nature Reserve loop from Bassetlaw, offer accessible paths and scenic views that can be enjoyed by all ages.
Many trails in the Mattersey area are dog-friendly, especially those through open countryside and along riverbanks. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly when passing through farmland or nature reserves, to protect wildlife and livestock.
Jogging routes in Mattersey often feature picturesque views. You can enjoy sights across lakes and wetlands within the Idle Valley Nature Reserve, tranquil stretches of the River Idle, and classic English pastoral fields. Other nearby attractions include Langold Country Park Lake.
Yes, many of the running routes around Mattersey are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular option is the Idle Valley Nature Reserve loop from Lound, which is a moderate 7.6-mile (12.3 km) circular trail.
The running routes in Mattersey are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 15 reviews. Runners often praise the tranquil riverbanks, the expansive nature reserves, and the varied, scenic backdrops that make for an enjoyable outdoor experience.
For those seeking a longer challenge, Mattersey offers more extensive routes. The All Saints Church, Babworth – Pedestrian Bridge Over Canal loop from Ranskill is a difficult 16.9-mile (27.1 km) trail, providing a significant distance for experienced runners.
While specific parking details vary by trailhead, many popular running areas like the Idle Valley Nature Reserve typically offer designated parking facilities. For public transport, it's advisable to check local bus routes that serve villages near the trailheads, such as Lound or Bassetlaw.
Mattersey's flat landscapes make it suitable for jogging year-round. However, spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be warm, while winter runs are possible, but some paths might be muddy or require more sure-footedness.
While the routes themselves often traverse natural and rural areas, you can find cafes and amenities in nearby villages and towns. The Idle Valley Nature Reserve, for instance, has visitor facilities that may include refreshments.


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