With so many glorious locations to choose from this top 5 was a tough one to call. Without further ado, here is our top 5 places to run in the UK…
Lake District
Best for – Fell running
Run this – Lakeland Trails: Ullswater 10k & 14K or 110K & 55K Ultra
What’s so good about it?
If you’ve never been to the Lake District, you are quite simply missing out. The jaw-dropping scenery is a beauty to behold, and the landscape is a mecca for off-road runners. Try your hand at one of the brilliant Lakeland Trails and be prepared to not want to leave!
Scottish Highlands
Best for – Trail running
Run this – West Highland Way
What’s so good about it?
Much like the Lakes, the Scottish Highlands boast a rugged beauty and many runner-friendly routes. Scaling landscapes steeped in history provides this location with a fascinating new dimension. The West Highland Way Race is a famous 35-hour run from Milngavie following the West Highland Way to Fort William Leisure Centre, covering a staggering 95 miles. Only the brave need apply.
Snowdonia
Best for – Trail / Fell Running
Run this – Snowdon Race
What’s so good about it?
With lakes, mountains and waterfalls, Snowdonia National Park has the lot. It’s also abuzz with outdoor activities, including a handful of iconic runs. The Snowdon Race holds three events, a mountain race, a super cup and a 5K race –catering for all needs. But be quick: it sells out fast.
South Downs
Best for – Trail running
Run this – South Downs Way 100 & 50 or South Downs Trail Marathon
What’s so good about it?
England’s newest National Park has plenty to offer, which is probably why all the races in it tend to be so long! It’s biggest and most prestigious is the South Downs Way 100, sold out this year but worth keeping an eye on for the future.
The course travels along the chalk ridgeway, starting just outside of Winchester, and heads due east until the trail ends in Eastbourne. Beautiful stuff!
Mourne Mountains
Best for – Fell running
Run this – Mourne Way Marathon & Northern Ireland Mountain Runnin Association
What’s so good about it?
For starters, Game of Thrones was filmed here. So it’s probably worth going for that alone, The Mourne Mountains are also a fantastic location for running – you will be tired but, it’ll be worth it. Because of the popularity of running in this region there is even a Northern Ireland Mountain Running Association, which is a great way of finding out about local races.
