If you’re up and out early enough on a Saturday morning, you may have noticed an unusual phenomenon taking place in your local area. Dozens, hundreds and sometimes even thousands of brightly dressed people moving en masse through parks, woodlands, hills and mountains. This is Parkrun.
Parkrun is free, weekly, timed community events that take place all over the UK, from urban parks such as Richmond in London, Grangemoor in Cardiff and Holyrood in Edinburgh to more rural locations such as Portrush on Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast, Dolgellau in Snowdonia in Wales, and Whinlatter Forest in the English Lake District.
No matter where you are in the UK, the chances are there will be a Parkrun nearby. This means you can take part in one not only in your local area but when you're on holiday, too.
Here, we reveal 10 of our favourite rural Parkruns, courses that not only deliver on community spirit and inclusivity but also on spectacular scenery.
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What is Parkrun?
Parkrun is a free community event where people walk, jog or run a 5k course. It takes place every Saturday morning. Don't fancy completing the course? You can still get involved by volunteering as a marshal or spectating.
Junior Parkrun, dedicated to 4-14-year-olds and their families, is a 2k course, and takes place every Sunday morning.
Parkrun prides itself on being positive, welcoming and inclusive – everyone is welcome to join in.
10 of the UK's most breathtaking Parkruns
Dolgellau Parkrun, Snowdonia
This West Wales Parkrun follows the beautiful Mawddach Trail on an old railway line towards Barmouth, taking in views of the gorgeous Afon Mawddach and Snowdonia's sky-high mountains. The course comprises two laps, each an out-and-back loop on the railway line.
Aviemore Parkrun, Cairngorms
Somewhat predictably, Scotland's Aviemore Parkrun is an undulating course. The out-and-back route follows a spectacular stretch of the Speyside Way through broadleaf woodland, coniferous forest and heather moorland. Mountain views across the Cairngorm National Park make this one of Britain's most epic Parkruns.
Portrush Parkrun, Causeway Coast
Looking for a challenge? Portrush in Northern Ireland is the first beach Parkrun in the world and takes place entirely on the golden sands of East Strand Beach on the Causeway Coast. Starting at the Watersports Centre, the there-and-back course follows the beach eastwards towards White Rocks before turning back west. There is a mix of soft sand and compacted sand (waters edge).
Fell Foot Parkrun, Lake District
The clue is in the name - Fell Foot Parkrun is a rolling course. The figure-of-eight loop begins on grass just below the main car park, heading towards Lake Windermere then on to a wildflower meadow. Shoreline stretches offer stunning views of the Lake District National Park.
Fountains Abbey, North Yorkshire
This sheltered course winds through the historic grounds of Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden. Beginning at the abbey, the two-lap route undulates gently through National Trust land, rounding Half Moon pond and skirting the River Skell before ending with a stunning stretch through Studley Royal Water Garden.
Lews Castle Parkrun, Isle of Lewis
What could be more thrilling than an island run in the ever-present company of an old castle? Well, Lews Castle Parkrun on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland offers just this. The out-and-back course begins at Stornaway beyond Cuddy Point, passing through the grounds of Lews Castle and rounding the base of Gallows Hill. Every week, Parkrunners are invited to enjoy a post-event coffee at the Woodlands Centre.
Lowestoft Parkrun, Suffolk
This 'one-and-three-quarter laps' tarmac and gravel course starts at East Point Pavilion and follows Lowestoft Promenade past Claremont Pier and rows of colourful beach huts. The event, which offers vast views out over the North Sea, finishes within the gardens of the Royal Wellington Esplanade. There is a small hill that leads up to CEFAS Laboratory/upper promenade.
Mount Edgcumbe Parkrun, Cornwall
Discover the charming grounds of Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park on this sometimes hilly course on the border of Cornwall and Devon. The off-road route, which includes sections on grass and trail, navigates through woodland and across the top of Folly Slope, with stunning views of Drake's Island and Plymouth Sound. Celebrate with a hot or cold drink at nearby Stables Café.
Abingdon Parkrun, Oxfordshire
This one's for the river and canal enthusiasts. Starting at Rye Meadow, the course passes through Abingdon Lock before running parallel with the River Thames. Keep your eyes peeled for kingfishers – there are two laps, so if you don't spot one on the first round, don't worry, you've got a second chance.
Hamsterley Forest Parkrun, County Durham
Visiting the North Pennines? Hamsterley Forest Parkrun is the perfect way to begin your Saturday in the hills. The course is level to begin with, following Bedburn Beck, before rising on Windy Bank through beautiful mixed woodland high above the valley floor. With some inclines and protruding roots, rocks and stones, this is very much a trail route, so be sure to wear appropriate trail footwear.
New to running or want to speed up? Check out expert run advice from our sister title 220 Triathlon
