7k Run Staveley-in-Cartmel: Scenic Loop Around Simpson Ground

Route Overview & Local Insights

Escape the crowds of the central Lake District with this 7.2km loop starting from the Chapel House forest car park. This route is a true trail runner's delight, trading paved roads for a mix of rugged forest tracks and winding woodland trails. With 183m of ascent, you'll encounter a steady climb that ranks as a moderate challenge (Hilly level 4), rewarding your efforts with a circumnavigation of the serene Simpson Ground Reservoir. Expect a soft, undulating terrain underfoot that feels remote and wild, perfect for runners looking to test their climbing legs while soaking in the quiet beauty of the southern fells.

Located near the quiet hamlet of Staveley-in-Cartmel, this area offers a glimpse into the Lake District's quieter, more industrial past. Simpson Ground Reservoir was originally constructed in the mid-1950s to supply water to the nearby villages, but today it serves as a peaceful sanctuary for local wildlife and hardy trail runners. The surrounding Chapel House Wood is a sprawling coniferous plantation managed by Forestry England, where the dense canopy opens up just enough to offer glimpses of the Winster Valley. It’s a favorite among local fell runners who want to avoid the tourist footfall of nearby Windermere while enjoying the technical terrain characteristic of the Cumbrian landscape.