6k Run Copeland: Scenic Longlands Lake Loop with Stunning Views

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 6.4km loop through Copeland offers runners a refreshing blend of waterside trails and gentle Cumbrian inclines. Starting on East Road, you’ll immediately pick up the rhythm of the River Ehen, following its flow toward the serene Longlands Lake. The terrain is a mix of approximately 30% paved surfaces and well-trodden natural paths, making it a versatile choice for those who enjoy a multi-terrain experience. With a modest 37m of ascent, the climb up toward Black How provides just enough elevation to elevate your heart rate while offering rewarding views of the surrounding fells before you descend back via Briscoe Road.

Longlands Lake is more than just a scenic backdrop; it is a reclaimed industrial site that serves as a testament to West Cumbria's environmental restoration. Once the site of the Longlands iron ore mine, which operated until the early 20th century, the area was flooded and transformed into a lush nature reserve that now teems with wildfowl and aquatic life. Running here feels like circling a piece of living history, where the mechanical echoes of the past have been replaced by the quiet rustle of reed beds and the steady pace of local athletes enjoying one of the region's most beloved green corridors.