6k Run Rochdale: Scenic Loop Around 3 Reservoirs

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 6km trail loop offers a refreshing escape into the Pennine fringes, perfect for runners looking to trade the pavement for rugged terrain. Starting near the Greenbooth Reservoir car park, you'll tackle a clockwise circuit that encompasses Greenbooth and the three Naden reservoirs (Upper, Middle, and Lower). With 108m of elevation gain concentrated in steady climbs, this is a moderately hilly route that tests your grit but rewards you with sweeping views. The ground is a true trail runner’s mix—expect soft grass, bare earth paths, and sections of gravel and stone that can become quite muddy and technical after a typical Lancashire rainfall, so grippy trail shoes are highly recommended.

Beyond the scenic vistas, this area holds a fascinating and somewhat eerie local history. Beneath the deep waters of Greenbooth Reservoir, which was completed in the 1960s to meet the growing water demands of Rochdale, lies the submerged village of Greenbooth. Once a thriving mill community centered around wool production, the village was evacuated and demolished to make way for the dam. As you crest the ridges overlooking the water, you are literally running over a piece of industrial heritage. The surrounding moorland is a classic example of the South Pennine landscape, offering a sense of isolation and tranquility just a few miles from the town center.