Thruscross Reservoir from Blubberhouses

The route

Starting from the Swinsty Moor car park area near Blubberhouses (LS21 2NP), the route follows the valley north on the Yorkshire Water tracks, climbing steadily alongside the Washburn stream toward the upper reservoir.

Thruscross Reservoir comes into view as the valley narrows above Fewston. The route circuits the upper reservoir before returning south through the valley on a parallel path. The combination of the valley approach and reservoir circuit gives the run a satisfying structure: steady climb through the dale, circuit of the top reservoir, descent back to the start.

Total distance is 13.5km with 162m of ascent. The elevation figure reflects the genuine character of the terrain - this is a valley route with moderate undulation rather than a hill run. The tracks are excellent throughout and well-maintained by Yorkshire Water.

The Washburn Valley

The Washburn was progressively dammed between 1876 and 1966 to feed water to Leeds. The four reservoirs - Lindley Wood, Swinsty, Fewston, and Thruscross - fill the valley floor in sequence. Running north from Blubberhouses means passing through all of them in order, with Thruscross at the top representing the furthest and most remote point of the chain.

The valley has a particular quality in autumn when the surrounding woodland turns: the reservoirs reflect the colour and the combination is as good as anywhere in the region. Spring brings birdlife to the reservoir margins.

Practical notes

The car park at Swinsty Moor (LS21 2NP) is the practical start point - toilets on site and a height barrier for large vehicles. An alternative start from Stack Point (HG3 1SU) on the eastern bank of Swinsty Reservoir shaves some distance and gives a different approach. No public transport serves this area directly; car is the only realistic option for most runners.