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Whether you’ve decided it’s time to dust off your old running shoes and get back out there or you’re already a keen runner looking for some inspiration, we’ve pulled together some of the best running routes the North’s cities have to offer. Whether you’re running in Manchester, jogging in Leeds or sprinting in Sheffield, check out our recommendations below.

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Best running routes in Manchester

Aerial view of Heaton Park in Manchester with green grass and treesHeaton Park

Difficulty: All abilities

Terrain: Paved paths & woodland trails

One of the largest parks in Manchester, it is also one of the most popular running spots in the city. There is a great selection of routes to choose from over a mix of terrains, so there’s something for all levels to enjoy. If you’re looking to add a weekly 5K into your schedule, there’s a free parkrun in Heaton Park every Saturday at 9am, open to all abilities. The park also hosts Run Heaton, which offers 5K, 10K and half marathon options, as well as an all-new kids’ race so everyone can join in the fun!

River Irwell and Peel Park

Difficulty: All abilities

Terrain: Paved paths & grass trails

Hop on the train to Salford Cresent and make your way to Peel Park, where you can follow this scenic route along the River Irwell into Manchester city centre or stay in the park to complete the loop. With a mostly flat terrain, this running route takes you through some stunning greenery with few distractions so you can get your head down and go. Peel Park also hosts a weekly parkrun each Saturday at 9am, where you can join in at your own pace, volunteer or simply spectate!

Rochdale Canal in Manchester with a view of the water on a sunRochdale Canal

Difficulty: Moderate

Terrain: Paved paths

A great running route in Manchester that’s adaptable depending on how far you want to go, Rochdale Canal offers a flat terrain spanning over 30 miles! Choose where you’d like to start – we recommend Deansgate or Castlefield Basin – and take in the sights as you go with plenty of spots along the way to stop for a rest. For those looking for a challenge, check out the Canalathon-Ultra with 10K, 50K, 100K and half marathon races to participate in along the Rochdale Canal.

Best running routes in Newcastle

The back of a woman running beside the River Tyne in NewcastleRiver Tyne

Difficulty: Moderate

Terrain: Paved paths

A picturesque running route in Newcastle, take in the banks of the River Tyne and its seven bridges on this fairly flat terrain. Follow the paths on either side of the river or create your own route with several bridges, like the famous Millenium Bridge, easy to cross. You can also add the Tyne Riverside Country Park into your route with miles of footpaths available for both runners and cyclists alike.

Jesmond Dene

Difficulty: Moderate

Terrain: Paved paths, gravel & woodland trails

If you’re a fan more magical running routes, Jesmond Dene is the perfect place to lose yourself amongst the woodland. Take in the valley as you race over bridges and past waterfalls, spotting the variety of wildlife as you go. There are a few paths with inclines and the trails are a mixture of paved, gravel and dirt, so running in Jesmond Dene can be as challenging as you want it to be. And, you guessed it – there’s another parkrun to enjoy here, too!

Aerial view of green fields and treesTown Moor

Difficulty: All abilities

Terrain: Paved paths & grass trails

With 1,000 acres of open air to explore, Town Moor is a wonderful place to run in Manchester. With a mixture of paths and grass trails, you can choose the terrain that suits you best. Town Moor also offers another parkrun at the usual time of Saturday, 9am. If you’re looking for a challenge, ascend the hill to Moor Edge for a panoramic view of the city. The Great North Run begins next to Town Moor on Claremont Road, making it a great place to train for the big day.

Best running routes in Leeds

Back of a man running up a hill with grass and a dirt trailMeanwood Valley Trail

Difficulty: Hard

Terrain: Grass & woodland trails

If you’re seeking some tougher terrain for your run, we recommend the Meanwood Valley trail that runs through Adel Woods to Golden Acre Park. Spanning seven miles, this route is a great way to explore the Meanwood Valley Local Nature Reserve, a beautiful wildlife haven in the north of Leeds. The trail features as part of the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, so provides excellent training for those looking to compete.

Leeds Canal to Kirkstall Abbey

Difficulty: Moderate

Terrain: Paved paths

Another canal run to enjoy in the North, join the path where it suits you best or start and finish at Kirkstall Abbey to complete your own loop. The canal offers miles of uninterrupted terrain, following the water and offering some sights along the way from the city’s industrial past. This route is particularly good for long distance runners or those training for a marathon, thanks to its length.

Woodland trail at Woodhouse Moor with green bushesWoodhouse Moor

Difficulty: All abilities

Terrain: Paved paths

With its central location, Woodhouse Moor offers a great spot for running in Leeds. While it may be on the small side, a few loops will see you reach 5K easily. The terrain is also perfect for beginners with flat paths to follow throughout. Like many of the spots on our list so far, Woodhouse Moor has a weekly parkrun open to all abilities.

Best running routes in Sheffield

Man wearing a red top and black shorts running in a green field with his small dogThe Outdoor City Run Routes

Difficulty: Various

Terrain: Various

A runner’s dream, Sheffield has over 30 running routes signposted throughout the city and surrounding woodland. The Outdoor City Run Routes are all colour-coded, so you can choose the best one for your level, from nice and easy to more challenging. Whether you’re looking for shorter routes around the city centre to picturesque trails in the woods, you’re sure to find your new favourite.

Five Weirs Walk

Difficulty: All abilities

Terrain: Paved paths

Ideal for running in Sheffield, the Five Weirs Walk is a 7.5km path stretching along the River Don to the city centre. On the way, you’ll pass the eponymous five weirs in the water, as well as a host of wildlife that call this place home. Thanks to the Five Weirs Walk Trust, the path is well-maintained and flat, making it a more accessible run in Sheffield. The route starts at Lady’s Bridge and goes all the way to Meadowhall Shopping Centre, if you fancy a post-run coffee or bite to eat.

Aerial view of Graves Park in Sheffield with green fields, trees and a car parkGraves Park

Difficulty: All abilities

Terrain: Paved paths, grass & woodland trails

As Sheffield’s largest park, it’s no surprise it makes for a great place to stretch your legs. There’s a mixture of open green spaces, pathways and woodland, with both flat paths and steeper slopes for those looking for more of a challenge. These are all clearly signposted, so you can decide what you fancy on the day and how many loops to tackle. There’s another free parkrun hosted in Graves Park every Saturday morning for those looking for company, with volunteers welcome. Oh, and did we mention there’s an Animal Farm to visit after your hard work?

Best running routes in Liverpool

A pathway in Sefton Park with green trees on either sideSefton Park

Difficulty: All abilities

Terrain: Paved paths & grass trails

One of Liverpool’s biggest parks, it offers over 200 acres to enjoy with a 2-mile loop around the perimeter. There’s also a great loop around the boating lake, providing an easy, flat terrain for beginners. If you’re looking for a guide, follow the 3K route marked by the GetGoing! logo, and stop by the park’s cafe afterwards for some much-needed caffeine. Sefton Park is also home to plenty of other sports, from tennis to touch rugby, if you fancy releasing some more endorphins.

Rupert Lane Recreation Ground

Difficulty: Moderate

Terrain: Paved paths & grass trails

A perfect spot to enjoy some hill sprints, head along to Rupert Lane Recreation Ground in the heart of the city. The running route around the whole park is about 3K but the hills offer challenges throughout. The park offers mostly paved paths, great for all-weather running, and is perfect for timed laps. As it’s a bit smaller than other parks in the city, it tends to be quieter, if you prefer a more peaceful place for your run. If you’d like a longer route, we recommend adding Stanley Park to your run for more trails.

The water at the Royal Albert Dock in LiverpoolRoyal Albert Dock and Waterfront

Difficulty: All abilities

Terrain: Paved paths

One of Liverpool’s most famous spots, the Royal Albert Dock is also great for a run in the city. The scenic route takes you along the waterfront, past iconic landmarks and historical sights, with plenty of options to customise your run. The best part of running at the waterfront is the smooth paths it offers, as well as a flat, even terrain, making it nice and accessible for all levels. Due to its popularity with locals and tourists alike, we recommend an early morning run here, taking in the beautiful sunrise over the water.

More adventures in the North

Outdoor activities in the North

5 best walks in Manchester

5 best walks in the Lake District

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