4.3
(15)
592
runners
11
runs
Jogging around Cotherstone offers diverse landscapes, from gentle riverside paths to challenging moorland trails. The region is characterized by the River Tees, open moorland, and serene reservoirs, providing varied terrain for running. Historical features and natural landmarks are integrated into many running routes, adding interest to the outdoor experience. This area provides a range of running experiences suitable for different fitness levels.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
2
runners
9.38km
01:04
130m
130m
Jog this 5.8-mile (9.4 km) moderate loop around Blackton and Balderhead reservoirs in the North Pennines, enjoying moorland views and wildli
1
runners
4.82km
00:33
30m
20m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(1)
8
runners
9.82km
01:07
170m
170m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
runners
17.1km
01:58
100m
100m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
runners
8.49km
00:57
80m
80m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Open 10-4 everyday except Tuesday. Great coffee and cake, bacon/sausage butties. Enough bike parking for a group ride, plus a maintenance station with pump and tools. Walkers, runners, kayakers and dogs all welcome!
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Fantastic place to stop for lunch, or coffee and cake. Safe bike-parking round the back. Open 10-4 every day (closed Tuesdays).
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prepare to stop frequently to open gates
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Blackton Reservoir is a beautiful stretch of water that is home to a great deal of wildlife. The area around the western end of the reservoir is protected as a nature reserve. Nearby, Hannah's Meadows has been designated as a site of special scientific interest due to them having many species of grass and herbs which are threatened elsewhere.
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Among the three reservoirs, Balderhead is the one located furthest to the west. It takes its waters from the River Balder, a tributary of the River Tees, and was built in 1961.
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Enjoy running along this stretch where you'll have the reservoir on one side and the channel on the other. Surrounded by water!
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Hury reservoir was completed in 1892. It's the lowest in a series of three reservoirs on the river Balder designed to control the river flow and provide water to the people and industry of Teesdale.
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Cotherstone offers a good selection of jogging routes, with over 10 trails available on komoot. These routes cater to various fitness levels, ranging from easy riverside paths to more challenging moorland runs.
Jogging routes around Cotherstone feature diverse terrain. You'll find gentle riverside paths along the River Tees, open moorland landscapes on Cotherstone Moor, and serene loops around reservoirs like Blackton and Balderhead. Some trails also follow disused railway lines, offering relatively flat and accessible surfaces.
The running routes in Cotherstone are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 15 reviews. Runners often praise the varied scenery, from tranquil reservoirs to historical landmarks, and the options available for different difficulty levels.
Yes, Cotherstone has easy jogging routes perfect for beginners. An excellent option is the Hury Reservoir loop — North Pennines, which is approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) with minimal elevation gain, offering a pleasant and accessible run around the water.
For experienced joggers seeking a challenge, Cotherstone offers routes with more significant distance and elevation. The Tees Railway Path – Lune Railway Viaduct loop from Cotherstone is a difficult 10.6 miles (17.1 km) trail that provides a longer, more demanding experience through varied landscapes.
Many of Cotherstone's jogging routes are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Popular circular options include the Blackton & Balderhead reservoirs loop and the Cotherstone Castle – River Tees Crossing loop from Cotherstone, both offering scenic round trips.
Cotherstone's jogging routes are rich with natural beauty. You can encounter the scenic River Tees, cross the historic Wynch Bridge, and potentially spot the nearby Low Force waterfalls. The expansive Cotherstone Moor also offers stunning open landscapes and features like the Lunedale Valley.
Several jogging routes in Cotherstone incorporate historical points of interest. The Cotherstone Castle – River Tees Crossing loop takes you past the ancient Cotherstone Castle. On Cotherstone Moor, you might discover the Butter Stone, old farmsteads, rock carvings, and lime kiln remains, adding a historical dimension to your run.
Yes, Cotherstone offers routes suitable for families, especially those with less elevation and on well-maintained paths. The easier reservoir loops, such as the Hury Reservoir loop, are generally good options for a family outing, providing scenic views in a manageable distance.
Many of the public footpaths and bridleways around Cotherstone are suitable for running with dogs, provided they are kept under control, especially near livestock. The varied terrain, from riverside paths to moorland trails, offers plenty of space for you and your canine companion to enjoy. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
Cotherstone village itself has amenities, and some routes are designed to pass by local establishments. For example, The Old Chapel Café – Fox and Hounds Pub loop from Cotherstone specifically includes stops at local eateries. Additionally, the famous Tan Hill Inn – Britain's Highest Inn is a notable pub in the wider area, though not directly on all Cotherstone routes.
Cotherstone offers good jogging conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is ideal for longer runs, though moorland trails can be exposed. Winter runs are possible, but some paths, especially on the moor, may be muddy or require more careful footing due to weather conditions.


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