There are so many wonderfully wild trails in the UK to choose from if you like your running with a side of incredible backdrop. Some stretch for miles and miles (think the West Highland Way or the Wales Coast Path), but to ease us all into it, we’re starting off with a handful of more manageable 5+ mile trail runs to test your feet on!
Frensham Commons, Surrey Hills
At around 8km long, this is a nice trail to cut your teeth on - not too hilly (71m ascent) and with a glorious landscape of swimmable pools and beautiful woodlands, this is an easy escape from the city - good for mind, body + soul! Start and finish at the Frensham Great Pond carpark.
Dunwich Heath, Suffolk
A little longer at around 14km, the Dunwich Heath trail is a musical mix of coastal route and woodland path. Some road-running is included on this path, but the surroundings are such that you barely notice the man-made elements! Starting + finishing at the Vulcan Arms in Sizewell, you can stop for a well-earned rest and a bite at this lovely local spot.
Pen-y-Ghent, Yorkshire Dales
A little more challenging, this route comes in at the 16km mark and will take you on a 694m ascent through sweeping dales and along a ridgeline summit. Beginning and ending at Dale Head, you can pick and choose how challenging you make this run by taking detours along the way or sticking to the waymarked path.
Cadair Idris, Snowdonia
A little shorter, but a fairly challenging route, this 9km mountain trail gives you a few different options for how you tackle it. There are three different trails with the Pony Path being the best for running. Take it easy here in inclement weather - visibility can get a bit tricky! Start and end at Tynyceunant car park.
Loughrigg Fell, Lake District
There are routes to suit several levels here - choose to scale the 335m peak or pick from a network of lowland trails. The scenery is spectacular no matter your trail choice and you’ll be looking at around a 10km distance ther-and-back, regardless of the route. Start and end at the Rydal Water car park.
Noss Mayo & Newton Ferrers, Devon
Beginning in the village of Noss Mayo and taking in the sights along Newton Creek towards Newton Ferrers, this is a moderate 16km trail with grass underfoot and spectacular coastal views all around. Head out on a clear day for the best possible views and make sure to leave some time for a pitstop in Noss Mayo post-excursion!
