6k Run Saddleworth: Scenic Loop Around Dove Stone Reservoirs

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 6.2km clockwise loop offers a quintessential Peak District running experience, blending accessible terrain with rugged natural beauty. Departing from the Dove Stone Reservoir car park, the route circumnavigates both Dove Stone and Yeoman Hay Reservoirs. With a modest 54m of ascent, it’s a relatively flat choice for the area, though the variety of surfaces keeps things engaging. You’ll start on smooth tarmac and well-maintained gravel paths, but be prepared for the grassy trails on the eastern edge of Yeoman Hay. These sections can become soft and heavy during the winter months, so choose your footwear carefully if there’s been recent rain. It's an ideal distance for a steady tempo run or a scenic recovery jog surrounded by moorland vistas.

Located on the edge of Saddleworth, Dove Stone is a gateway to the Dark Peak, famous for its dramatic gritstone edges and peat-covered plateaus. The area is managed by the RSPB and United Utilities, making it a haven for local wildlife; keep an ear out for the calls of curlews or mountain hares darting across the slopes of Indian's Head. Historically, these reservoirs were vital to the industrial boom of nearby Oldham and Manchester, but today they serve as a peaceful retreat for the running community. After your loop, local runners often head into nearby Greenfield or Uppermill for a post-run coffee, soaking in the unique culture of these traditional Pennine villages that bridge the gap between Greater Manchester and the wild hills of Derbyshire.