The best running trails around Llanishen Reservoir
4.4
(144)
25,908
runners
673
runs
Jogging around Llanishen Reservoir offers access to 110 acres of green and blue space in North Cardiff, featuring well-maintained paths around two reservoirs. The area is characterized by a network of circular routes, including a 2.5 km loop around Llanishen Reservoir itself, suitable for various fitness levels. Diverse habitats such as woodlands, meadows, scrub, and waterside areas provide varied running environments. The terrain primarily consists of accessible paths, with some routes on mostly paved surfaces.
Best jogging routes around Llanishen Reservoir
- The most popular jogging route is Llanishen Reservoir loop from Llanishen, a 3.1 miles (5.0 km) trail that takes about 33 minutes to complete, offering views of the reservoir.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Roath Park Waterfall – Terra Nova Café loop from Cyncoed, a moderate 3.1 miles (5.1 km) path that includes parkland and a waterfall.
- Local runners also love the Running loop from Llanishen, a 3.9 miles (6.3 km) trail leading through varied green spaces, often completed in about 40 minutes.
- Jogging around Llanishen Reservoir is defined by its two reservoirs, woodlands, and waterside habitats. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to moderate paths.
- The routes in Llanishen Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 140 reviews. More than 26000 runners have used komoot to explore Llanishen Reservoir's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
119
runners
5.01km
00:33
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
37
runners
5.04km
00:31
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
runners
6.35km
00:40
70m
70m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
runners
11.0km
01:10
110m
110m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
runners
4.73km
00:31
30m
30m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This track has been improved, now wider and tarmacked.
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Wonderful cafe perched right over the edge of the lake - feels like being in a rowboat right on the lake! Enjoying a generous baked potato and chilli con carne marks a great end to a wonderful hike.
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multiple well kept trails around the woodlands , but don't go cycling around the reservoir as I found out there is no cycling, even though there are no signs , i got abuse from aggressive walkers about it.
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narrow wooden bridge with water running over the pathway
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Whatever you do is don't cycle around the reservoir, got told off and abusively shouted at.
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Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs forms a vital part of the green and blue infrastructure of Cardiff. The mix of grassland, woodland, scrub and waterside habitats offers opportunities for all kinds of wildlife and nature. There are two Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and much of the grassland and woodland outside of the SSSIs is designated as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC). Dogs are permitted on the café balcony, car park and Grab & Go seating area only and are not permitted anywhere else on the site, including the paths. Natural Resources Wales has advised that the risk from dogs to the fungi is too great. Waxcaps are very sensitive to changes in habitat such as fluctuations in soil moisture, temperature and nitrate levels which can reduce the production of fruiting bodies. In particular, sudden changes to nitrate levels on the site – from dog urine specifically – can have a detrimental effect on the fungi. There is a fully accessible Visitor Centre with cafe, toilets, free wi-fi, room hire, equipment hire, changing rooms and other facilities include the boathouse, bird hide, education centre, nature trails and paths, bike parking/shelters and car parking.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available around Llanishen Reservoir?
There are over 690 running routes available around Llanishen Reservoir, catering to various fitness levels. You'll find a mix of easy, moderate, and some more challenging paths to explore.
Are there easy or beginner-friendly running routes at Llanishen Reservoir?
Yes, Llanishen Reservoir offers many easy and beginner-friendly options. There's a dedicated 2.5 km loop around Llanishen Reservoir itself, perfect for a relaxed run. Overall, over 80 easy routes are available, often on well-maintained, mostly paved surfaces.
Can I find circular running routes around Llanishen Reservoir?
Absolutely. The area is known for its network of circular paths, including a 5 km network around both Lisvane and Llanishen reservoirs. These loops provide continuous scenic runs without retracing your steps.
Are there any dog-friendly running trails at Llanishen Reservoir?
To protect the delicate natural environment and wildlife, dogs are unfortunately not permitted on the paths around the reservoirs. They are restricted to the visitor centre, car park, and Grab & Go seating areas only.
What kind of natural features and wildlife can I expect to see while jogging?
Llanishen Reservoir is rich in natural beauty, featuring two reservoirs, woodlands, meadows, and waterside habitats. You might spot diverse wildlife such as overwintering birds, grass snakes, otters, bats, and various bird species. The site is also recognized for its ecological significance with two Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Is there a specific route that includes a waterfall?
Yes, the Roath Park Waterfall – Terra Nova Café loop from Cyncoed is a popular moderate 5.1 km running path that includes parkland and a beautiful waterfall.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Llanishen Reservoir?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 140 reviews. Reviewers often praise the picturesque landscapes, the well-maintained circular paths, and the peaceful atmosphere of the reservoirs and woodlands.
Are there any longer running routes for more experienced runners?
Yes, for those looking for a longer challenge, routes like the Llanishen Reservoir – Nant Fawr Metal Bridge loop from Cyncoed offer over 11 km of running. There's also the more difficult View of Caerphilly – View of the Valley loop from Llanishen, which spans over 14 km with significant elevation.
Are there facilities like cafes or toilets available at Llanishen Reservoir?
Yes, a modern, fully accessible two-story visitor centre is available, offering spectacular views, a café serving Welsh produce, changing rooms, and toilets. There are also picnic areas for visitors.
Is there parking available for runners at Llanishen Reservoir?
Yes, there is a car park available at the visitor centre for your convenience.
Are the running paths suitable for families with children?
Many of the paths are easily accessible and suitable for families. Beyond the reservoir loops, there's even a woodland Story Trail that offers an engaging route for exploration with children.
What is the typical terrain like on the running routes?
The terrain primarily consists of accessible paths, with many routes on mostly paved surfaces, making them comfortable for jogging. You'll find a mix of well-maintained trails around the reservoirs and through woodlands.
Most popular routes around Llanishen Reservoir
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