Running
Running wild
Whether you’re an experienced long-distance runner or someone who simply loves a steady jog, you’ll relish discovering the astonishing landscapes and nature the National Parks have to offer.
From loch shore to coastline, forest or mountain, there are a multitude of breathtaking landscapes and trails to enjoy while out running. Home to some of the most beautiful running routes in the UK, you’ll be spoilt for choice when deciding where your next trail will be.
Our Favourites
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs
From the tranquil lochs to the challenging mountain terrains, there’s a route to challenge all abilities whilst offering stunning views of the landscape. You could even try running a stretch of one of the long distance trails which pass through the area including the West Highland Way, Rob Roy Way or the Three Lochs Way. Click here to discover popular routes.
North York Moors
Whether you've just bought your first pair of trainers, or have 1000's of miles under foot, Dalby Forest has a wealth of trails for all runners. You can choose from a number of way marked running routes that range from 1km to 10km and explore this stunning forest at your own pace.
Northumberland
The Park boasts trails which offer spectacular views and a variety of challenges to inspire runners of all levels. Fell running offers a specialised type of long-distance running over rough and rugged terrain. Runners cross moorland, rocky paths and steep hillsides. And there are plenty of areas to explore at a gentler place including Breamish Valley, College Valley and Simonside Hills.
Peak District
Whether it’s the demanding 21 miles of the ‘Edale Skyline’ (with 4,500ft of climb to boot!) or a gentle jog on level and surfaced trails along the Peak District’s former rail routes, there’s plenty to suit every set of trainers.
New Forest
The New Forest is fairly flat, with no mountains to slow your stride, and running is a wonderful way to see the New Forest National Park close up. There are many routes taking you into the woods, by the sea, over heath or past rivers and streams. Take a look at some great routes and download the free app for walking (and running).
Yorkshire Dales
Fell running is one of the Yorkshire Dales oldest sports. There are nearly 50 unique fell running events throughout the year. If you are looking for a race in or near a picturesque village with a great pub, try Cracoe, Dent, Embsay or Kettlewell. For fell races with a bit more happening, such as music, food and fun stuff to do and watch, visit Arncliffe, Buckden, Burnsall, Halton Gill or Hebden.
Did you know?
Top tips
- Taking time to build up your strength and flexibility will help prevent injury.
- Make sure you always warm up and cool down and have water to help re-hydrate.
- If you’re running alone make sure you have some way of communicating in case of emergency.
- If you’re running on footpaths watch out for other walkers, particularly children and animals.
There’s something truly magical about the craft and skill of dry stone walling. 🪨
These remarkable walls still zigzag for more than 5,000 miles across the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
They’re a lasting reminder of the generations of craftsmanship that have shaped our landscapes, and of the traditional skills that continue to thrive across the UK’s National Parks.
🎥 Yorkshire Dales National Park
#ParkSpotlight #YorkshireDales
History doesn’t only live in museums.
It’s woven into the landscapes of our National Parks. From hillforts and castles to ancient pathways and drystone walls - these are places where heritage isn’t just protected - it’s still part of everyday life. 💚
When we protect these landscapes, we also protect the stories, traditions and history within them.
📍Dartmoor National Park
#NationalParksUK #UKHistory
There`s more to Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park than lochs. 🌳
It`s also home to The Great Trossachs Forest – one of the UK`s largest woodland restoration projects.
So far, more than 2 million native trees have been planted, creating richer habitats for wildlife and helping shape healthier landscapes for the future.
And speaking of growing... today the National Park celebrates 24 years of protecting people, places and nature.
Happy Birthday @Lomondtrossachs! 🎉
#ParkSpotlight #UKForests
POV: One of those perfect July evenings.
🌾 Some of the best moments outdoors are the simple ones.
National Parks aren’t just places to visit on holiday. They’re where we connect with nature and ourselves, everyday.
Where’s your favourite place for a summer stroll? 💚
#Wellbeing #UKCountrySide #NationalParksUK
Wales is famous for its waterfalls 💧
Across UK National Parks, rivers have shaped the landscape over thousands of years, creating some of the UK’s most spectacular waterfalls.
From the force of the water to the life and habitats these rivers support, they’re a powerful reminder of the remarkable landscapes our National Parks protect.
📍Bannau Brycheiniog National Park
#ParkSpotlight #UKWaterfalls #BannauBrycheiniog
💭We never forget our first school trip.
For many young people, a day in a National Park is about much more than learning about nature. It`s where confidence grows and curiosity is sparked.
Every year, thousands of children and young people experience outdoor learning across the UK`s National Parks. Time spent in nature can help develop problem-solving skills that last long after the school day ends.
👉Can you remember the first time you visited a National Park?
📸Sutton Bank, North York Moors National Park. Photo by Chris J Parker.
#Education #NationalParksUK
🧠Where in nature do you find peace?
It doesn’t have to be far away.
From quiet benches to big skies, our National Parks offer space to pause, reset and reconnect.
These moments matter for our wellbeing and for the places we all care for. 💚 #NationalParks #Countryside #Wellbeing
The UK is “so boring.” 👀
Meanwhile, your National Parks…
Where nature is being restored, wildlife is returning and people are discovering the outdoors. Repost if you love the National Parks. 💚
#YourNationalParks #NationalParksUK
