Trail Running Planet · South Pennines · Rossendale
Watergrove Reservoir and Norden Moor
Long moor miles above Rochdale without the crowds of the Dales. Watergrove Reservoir sits at the heart of a circuit that earns its distance across proper South Pennines terrain.
Distance
19.5 km
Ascent
390 m
Descent
389 m
Max elevation
430 m
Route type
Loop
Est. time
3h 50m – 5h 15m
Grade
Hard
Navigation
map_skills
Parking
OL12 9NJ
Dogs
Welcome
Best seasons
spring, summer, autumn
About this route
A 19.5km moorland circuit above Rochdale taking in Watergrove Reservoir and the open ground of the South Pennines, with connections to the Pennine Bridleway.
Hazards & notes
Some navigation required on moorland sections in poor visibility. Flagstone and cobbled bridleways can be slippery when wet. Remote sections with limited shelter.
Emergency
Call 999 or 112 → ask for Police → request Mountain Rescue. Register Emergency SMS: text "register" to 999.
Full route, GPX download & live conditions:
https://trailrunningplanet.com/routes/england/south-pennines/rossendale/watergrove-reservoir-norden-moor
trailrunningplanet.com