4k Run Kirklees: Scenic Loop Around Scammonden Water

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 4.5km circuit around Scammonden Water offers a beautifully balanced run through the heart of Kirklees. Starting from Low Platt Lane, the route is fully paved, making it an excellent choice for runners looking for reliable footing regardless of the Yorkshire weather. While the distance is relatively short, don’t underestimate the terrain; with a steady 81m of ascent and a moderate hill rating, you’ll encounter some undulating slopes that provide a fantastic aerobic workout. As you navigate the loop, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the reservoir and the dramatic Pennine landscape that surrounds it, making every climb feel well worth the effort.

Scammonden Water is a feat of modern engineering with a fascinating local history, uniquely serving as both a vital reservoir and the foundation for one of the highest points of the M62 motorway. When the dam was constructed in the late 1960s, it was the first in the United Kingdom to carry a motorway across its crest. Running here offers a striking contrast between the rhythmic hum of cross-country transit and the peaceful, natural beauty of the water's edge. This area is a staple for the West Yorkshire running community, offering a sense of openness and scale that is hard to find on more urban paths.