The best running trails in South West England

Lace up for a challenging jogging adventure on the South West Coast Path: Isle of Portland Circuit. This difficult route covers 12.8 miles (20.5 km) and features an elevation gain of 918 feet (280 metres), typically completed in about 2 hours and 27 minutes. You will experience constantly changing coastal views, from dramatic cliffs overlooking the English Channel to the distinctive red and white striped Portland Bill Lighthouse. The varied terrain ensures a demanding yet rewarding run.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trail includes old quarry tracks, coastal paths, and sections of shingle, particularly on Chesil Beach. Some parts, especially on the southwestern side, can be extremely poor, slippery, or muddy, even for jogging. Proper footwear with good grip is essential to tackle the mixed surfaces and occasional steep ascents and descents you will encounter. Always check local conditions before you head out.

This circuit offers a unique perspective on the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, showcasing its distinctive geology. As you jog, you will also catch views back along Chesil Beach and the Fleet Lagoon, which is Britain's largest tidal lagoon. The route is ideal for experienced joggers seeking a demanding coastal run with plenty of natural beauty and geological interest.

Embark on a moderate jogging adventure with the Bath Skyline loop, covering 7.5 miles (12.0 km) and gaining 639 feet (195 metres) in elevation, typically completed in 1 hour and 26 minutes. This route offers a diverse multi-terrain experience, guiding you through solid woodland trails, open grass meadows, and gravel paths. You will encounter rolling hills and some challenging ascents, including sections that can be muddy after rain. As you jog, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the historic city of Bath, nestled among tree-lined hills. A highlight is passing Sham Castle, an 18th-century folly that provides a picturesque backdrop for photos with the city in the distance.

To begin your jog, the loop is easily accessible from Bath Spa, making it convenient if you are arriving by public transport. The trail is well-managed by the National Trust and clearly marked with yellow arrows, so navigation is straightforward. Due to the varied surfaces and potential for mud, especially after wet weather, wearing good trail shoes is highly recommended for comfort and grip. While the route is dog-friendly, please keep your dog under control, particularly when passing through fields where livestock may be present.

What makes this loop special is its unique blend of natural beauty and rich history, offering a peaceful countryside escape just a short distance from the city center. As you jog, you will traverse ancient woodlands like Rainbow Wood and Bathwick Wood, and pass sites of Iron Age hillforts and Roman settlements. The trail also crosses the ancient Wansdyke boundary ditch, providing a glimpse into the area's deep past. This route truly showcases how the landscape around Bath has been shaped and appreciated over centuries.

Embark on a moderate jogging loop through Riverside Valley Park and along the River Exe, a route spanning 5.3 miles (8.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 62 feet (19 metres). You can expect to complete this scenic journey in about 55 minutes. As you jog, you'll enjoy peaceful views of the River Exe and the Exeter Ship Canal, with lush greenery and open meadows surrounding you. Keep an eye out for glimpses of Exeter Cathedral in the distance, adding a historic touch to your outdoor experience. The trail offers a refreshing escape, connecting you with nature right near the city.

This accessible route is conveniently located, making it easy to start your jogging adventure. You can reach the trailhead with just a short walk from Exeter city centre, particularly near the historic Quayside. For those driving, convenient parking is available nearby. The path is well-used and shared responsibly, so you will encounter other joggers, cyclists, and dog walkers enjoying the same beautiful surroundings.

Beyond the natural beauty, this trail provides an excellent opportunity to observe local wildlife, such as kingfishers, grey herons, and swans, especially near the water's edge. The route also offers a direct connection to the vibrant Exeter Quay area, perfect for extending your outing with a visit to its shops and cafes. It's a popular choice for anyone looking to combine urban accessibility with a refreshing outdoor experience.

Embark on the Dartington Estate & Staverton loop, a moderate jogging route that covers 5.7 miles (9.2 km) with an elevation gain of 430 feet (131 metres). You can expect to complete this scenic journey in about 1 hour and 1 minute. As you jog, you will follow tranquil riverside paths along the River Dart, winding through lush woodlands like North Wood, where impressive Redwood trees stand tall. The route also guides you through the beautifully maintained Dartington Hall gardens, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical charm.

Planning your visit to this route is straightforward, as the Dartington Estate is a well-known and accessible starting point. The trail features varied terrain, including asphalt, natural, unpaved, and gravel surfaces, catering to different preferences. While generally considered moderate, the paths are easily accessible, so a good level of fitness will ensure you enjoy the experience fully. Consider starting your jog in the morning to experience the peaceful atmosphere before it gets too busy.

This historic estate offers a rich tapestry of scenery and a chance to connect with nature and history. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as kingfishers and herons, along the riverbanks, adding to the natural appeal. The Dartington Hall gardens themselves are a highlight, showcasing ancient trees and artistic sculptures that provide unique visual interest throughout your jog. This route stands out for its combination of natural landscapes and cultural heritage.

Embark on a difficult jogging adventure along the Old Harry Rocks loop from Corfe Castle, a challenging 14.6-mile (23.5 km) route that demands very good fitness. This trail takes approximately 2 hours and 47 minutes to complete, guiding you through varied terrain including accessible paths, soft trails, and hard-packed ground. You will experience dramatic coastal vistas along the Jurassic Coast, sweeping views across Poole Bay, and the iconic chalk sea stacks of Old Harry Rocks.

Prepare for a demanding experience, as this loop involves significant elevation gain, totaling 1478 feet (450 metres). The route traverses diverse surfaces characteristic of the Isle of Purbeck, from coastal paths and chalk ridges to open heathlands. Starting from the historical Corfe Castle, you should be ready for a run that tests your endurance and sure-footedness across its varied landscapes.

This trail offers more than just a workout; it is a journey through a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including various seabirds, and if you are lucky, seals and bottlenose dolphins in the waters around Old Harry Rocks. Completing this loop is a notable achievement for joggers, combining historical interest with stunning natural beauty and the chance to spot peregrine falcons above Ballard Down.

This moderate jogging loop, the Freshford, Iford & Avoncliff loop from Bradford on Avon, offers a diverse and picturesque experience. You'll cover 7.8 miles (12.6 km) with about 739 feet (225 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 1 hour and 29 minutes to complete. Expect varied terrain, including natural paths, gravel, paved sections, and asphalt, as you follow riverside paths, tranquil canal towpaths, and open fields. Keep an eye out for the impressive Avoncliff Aqueduct, a key landmark on your route. While generally gentle, be prepared for some short, steep uphill sections and potentially muddy spots after rain. You'll also encounter several stiles and need to cross roads and railway lines, so stay aware of your surroundings.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is easily accessible. You can reach the route by public transport, with train stations conveniently located at Freshford and Avoncliff. This makes it a great option if you prefer not to drive. Along the way, you'll find several pubs and cafes, such as The Inn at Freshford and the Cross Guns Inn at Avoncliff, perfect for a break or refreshments. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, especially if there's been recent rain, to handle any muddy sections comfortably.

What makes this loop truly special is its blend of natural beauty and rich history, set within the southernmost end of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Beyond the Avoncliff Aqueduct, you'll pass by the beautiful Iford Manor & Gardens, known for its Italianate design, and other historic buildings like Westwood Manor and the Bradford-on-Avon Tithe Barn. The trail offers a unique opportunity to jog through charming Cotswold hamlets and enjoy the undulating countryside, providing a rewarding experience for those with good fitness.

Set out on the Coast & Canal Loop from Bude for a varied jogging experience that combines dramatic coastal scenery with peaceful waterside paths. This moderate 5.7-mile (9.2 km) route, which you can complete in about 58 minutes, features a diverse terrain, from rugged coastal sections with rolling hills and cliffs to flat, accessible canal towpaths. You will gain about 318 feet (97 metres) in elevation, with some steady climbs along the way. Enjoy panoramic views over Widemouth Bay and the distinctive Black Rock, then transition to the tranquil Bude Canal, where you might spot ducks and herons. The trail offers a blend of exhilarating sea air and calm inland stretches.

As you plan your jogging trip, be aware that while the canal path is mostly level and surfaced, the coastal sections require good fitness and some sure-footedness. Always exercise caution near cliff edges, as they can be undermined. The route is generally considered good for dogs, passing a beach and pubs that welcome them. You will encounter kissing gates along the way, but no stiles. Consider starting your run early to enjoy the quietest moments along the canal and the best light for coastal views.

This trail stands out for its unique combination of natural beauty and historical significance. The Bude Canal, a remarkable relic of 19th-century engineering, was originally built to transport lime-rich sand inland for agricultural use. Beyond its historical charm, the canal and the adjacent Bude Marshes are rich in wildlife, offering a chance to see various birds like herons and egrets. Along the route, you can also pass by sandy beaches, the Bude Sea Pool, and the historic Bude Castle, adding cultural points of interest to your run.