The best running trails around Brackenfield
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Jogging around Brackenfield offers a variety of routes through the Derbyshire countryside. The region features rolling hills, woodlands like Alders Wood, and water bodies such as Ogston Reservoir. These natural elements provide diverse terrain for running, from gentle paths to more challenging ascents. The landscape is characterized by rural settings, including historical landmarks like stone crosses and churches.
Best jogging routes around Brackenfield
- The most popular jogging route is Higham Stone Cross – Holy Cross Church, Morton loop from Shirland and Higham CP, a 7.7 miles (12.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 17 minutes to complete. This route features a moderate elevation gain through rural landscapes.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Higham Stone Cross – St Leonard's Church, Shirland loop from Shirland and Higham CP, a moderate 4.5 miles (7.2 km) path. This route offers views of local churches and stone crosses within the countryside.
- Local runners also love the Alders Wood loop from Shirland and Higham CP, a 5.6 miles (9.0 km) trail leading through Alders Wood, often completed in about 58 minutes.
- Jogging around Brackenfield is defined by rolling hills, woodlands, and reservoir views. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy paths to more difficult trails.
- The routes in Brackenfield are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.36 stars from over 69 reviews. More than 9000 runners have used komoot to explore Brackenfield's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
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Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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12
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
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Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Nice place to start a hike up to Crich Stand or Ashover
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beautiful peaceful spot with car park and bird hide
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Not great to walk around unless you want to walk on the road a lot. There is no direct access to the reservoir because it is a conservation site. The car park is free and there are benches to sit on to watch the birds. Ognaston Bird Club conducts a guided bird walk on the first Saturday of each month and everyone is welcome. With them, you can access the reservoir surrounding areas to watch birds. If you want great views of the reservoir however you can combine a visit with a footpath walk up from the reservoir through fields and these are quite well signposted and accessible except from a slim squeeze with a holly hedge on one side and part of a footpath which is quite nettly - but will probably be okay by Autumn.
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The church dates from the late 13th century but was heavily rebuilt in 1850 by the contractor C. Lindley of Mansfield to the designs of the architect Thomas Chambers Hine. It reopened on 1 January 1851.
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The plantation has been grown on land that was once one of the colliery spoil heaps.
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The church dates from the 15th century. Alterations were made in the 17th century. It was restored between 1848 and 1849 under the direction of the architect Henry Isaac Stevens and was re-opened by the Bishop of Lichfield on 24 January 1849. The church was restored again in 1929.
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Ogston Reservoir was created by flooding the local valley in 1958. The flooding covered the village of Woolley as well as a pub, farmland and a section of the Ashover Light Railway. The reservoir provides drinking water to the local area and is also used as a holding reservoir for Carsington Water. Today it's managed as a water source and leisure ground. The footpaths around the reservoir are popular locally. The Ogston sailing club is known for starting off Ellen MacArthur and it's also a popular trout fishing lake.
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Ogston Reservoir was created by flooding this valley back in 1958, the residents were moved to nearby Wooley Moor village. Managed by Severn Trent it supplies water to the surrounding area and acts as a holding reservoir for Carsington Water. It's an important site for birds with over 200 species recorded here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Brackenfield?
Brackenfield offers a wide selection of running routes, with over 500 trails to explore. These range from easy paths to more challenging ascents through the Derbyshire countryside.
Are there any easy jogging routes suitable for beginners in Brackenfield?
Yes, Brackenfield has 73 easy running routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed jog. These paths often feature gentler terrain through woodlands and rural settings.
What kind of terrain can I expect on jogging trails around Brackenfield?
The jogging trails in Brackenfield are characterized by rolling hills, dense woodlands like Alders Wood, and scenic views of water bodies such as Ogston Reservoir. You'll find a mix of rural paths, often passing historical landmarks like stone crosses and churches.
Are there any challenging running trails for experienced runners?
Absolutely. For experienced runners seeking a challenge, Brackenfield offers 91 difficult routes. One such option is the Running loop from Shirland and Higham CP, which covers over 17 kilometers with significant elevation changes.
Are there any circular jogging routes in Brackenfield?
Many of Brackenfield's running routes are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Higham Stone Cross – Holy Cross Church, Morton loop from Shirland and Higham CP or the Alders Wood loop from Shirland and Higham CP.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints I might see while running in Brackenfield?
While jogging in Brackenfield, you can encounter historical landmarks like stone crosses and local churches. For scenic views, consider trails that pass by Ogston Reservoir or offer glimpses of the wider Derbyshire countryside. Nearby viewpoints include High Tor and Giddy Edge or Alport Heights Summit.
What do other runners enjoy most about the trails in Brackenfield?
The running routes in Brackenfield are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.36 stars from over 69 reviews. Runners often praise the varied terrain, the peaceful woodlands, and the scenic rural landscapes that define the area.
Are there running routes that pass through Alders Wood?
Yes, Alders Wood is a prominent feature in the area, and several running routes traverse it. A popular option is the Alders Wood loop from Shirland and Higham CP, offering a pleasant run through the forest.
Can I find running routes near Ogston Reservoir?
Definitely. Ogston Reservoir is a beautiful spot, and you can find running routes that offer views of or pass close to it. The Alders Wood loop from Ogston Reservoir is a great example, combining woodland running with reservoir scenery.
Are there any running routes suitable for families?
While specific 'family-friendly' routes aren't explicitly categorized, the 73 easy routes in Brackenfield are generally suitable for families looking for less strenuous jogs. These often feature well-maintained paths through pleasant rural settings.
What is the typical distance of running routes in Brackenfield?
The distances of running routes in Brackenfield vary widely. You can find shorter loops, such as the Higham Stone Cross – St Leonard's Church, Shirland loop from Shirland and Higham CP at around 7 kilometers, up to longer, more challenging runs exceeding 17 kilometers.
Are there any routes that highlight historical sites?
Yes, many routes in Brackenfield weave through the countryside, passing historical landmarks. The Higham Stone Cross – Holy Cross Church, Morton loop from Shirland and Higham CP is a good example, incorporating stone crosses and churches into your run.
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