Whether you’re trying to escape the hustle and bustle of city streets and sweaty gyms or are looking for somewhere more rugged to challenge yourself, Forestry England’s waymarked running trails are the perfect place to find your rhythm.
From 1k to 10k route lengths, their running trails have been designed with both beginners and seasoned runners in mind. They provide an opportunity to run on safe, off-road, traffic-free trails in beautiful forest locations.
The nation’s forests are the perfect place to run, and this autumn Forestry England is excited to bring you Forest Runner, their series of 5k and 10k events. Forest Runner is hosted at eleven beautiful forests across England, and you can choose to run either a 5k or a 10k event and feel inspired to be a forest runner!
Forest Runner events are managed in partnership with Events of the North and trophies are awarded for the top places. Plus, everyone who crosses the finish line will receive a fantastic goody bag and a wooden medal!
The profits from Forest Runner sales help to grow, shape and care for the nation’s forests, now and for future generations.
Tickets are on sale now – don’t miss out!
Choose your Forest Runner event!
Cannock Chase Forest
When: 2nd September 2023
Onde: Cannock Chase Forest, Birches Valley, Rugeley, WS15 2UQ
The running trails offer runners the opportunity to explore the wider forest and enjoy the natural peace and tranquility of Cannock Chase Forest. The routes switch between flat, well surfaced trails and rougher, looser forest tracks.
westonbirt
When: 10th September 2023
Onde: Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, Tetbury, GL8 8QS
Run amongst one of the world’s finest botanical collections at Westonbirt Arboretum, with running routes offering views of stunning landscapes.
Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest
When: 24th September 2023
Onde: Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, Lady Oak Lane, Goudhurst, TN17 2SJ
Improve your fitness while exploring the stunning National Pinetum and forest. Our routes lead you under the canopy of the forest trees, amidst seasonal wildflowers.
Sherwood Pines
When: 1st October 2023
Onde: Sherwood Pines, Kings Clipstone, Nottingham, NG21 9JL
The running routes take you through a mixture of Pine and broadleaf trees across Sherwood Pines. The trails are on mixed terrain, mostly following forest trails, and are soft underfoot.
salcey forest
When: 15th October 2023
Onde: Salcey Forest, Wootton Road, Northamptonshire, NN7 2HX
Take on either the 5k or 10k trails at Salcey and be inspired by the stunning natural surroundings. Enjoy running through beautiful tree-lined avenues and past the Elephant Pond.
high lodge
When: 22nd October 2023
Onde: High Lodge, Thetford Forest, Brandon, IP27 0AF
High Lodge is a very flat forest with even paths allowing you to build up your speed. You can experience beautiful forest surroundings without the fear of a hill at the last stretch!
Forest of Dean
When: 26th November 2023
Onde: Beechenhurst, Speech House Road, Coleford, GL16 7EL
This year’s Forest of Dean event is moving to Beechenhurst which lies in the heart of the Forest of Dean and is home to the famous Sculpture Trail.
alice holt
When: 25th February 2024
Onde: Alice Holt Forest, Bucks Horn Oak, Farnham, GU10 4LS
Both routes take the runners into the wider forest through a mix of broadleaf trees, coniferous woods and some open wildlife areas.
Delamere
When: 3rd March 2024
Onde: Delamere Forest, Linmere, Delamere, Northwich, CW8 2HZ
Explore the stunning scenery along the undulating running routes at Delamere. Run along the stone paths and take in the natural views.
hamsterley
When: 10th March 2024
Onde: Hamsterley Forest, Bedburn, Hamsterley, DL13 3NL
Explore the stunning forest at Hamsterley with our waymarked running trails. You can pass some of our art pieces and beautiful views out over the valley.
Dalby
When: 24th March 2024
Onde: Dalby Forest, Dalby Visitor Centre, Low Dalby, Thornton-Le-Dale, Pickering
Both the 5k and 10k routes offer stunning views through the forest, what better place to enjoy a run?
New to trail running? Check out our trail running for beginners guide next
