The best running trails around Hurstbourne Tarrant
4.5
(26)
2,494
runners
334
runs
Jogging routes around Hurstbourne Tarrant traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills and chalk downland, offering varied terrain for runners. The region features numerous woodlands, such as Faccombe Wood and Doles Wood, providing shaded routes and peaceful scenery. Joggers can also explore narrow river valleys, including the Bourne Valley with the River Swift, which create intimate and secluded paths. The area boasts a network of off-road rural footpaths and woodland tracks, suitable for diverse running experiences.
Best jogging routes around…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
33
runners
20.3km
02:21
250m
250m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
23
runners
19.1km
02:13
380m
380m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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22
runners
42.5km
04:56
570m
570m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
23
runners
11.1km
01:09
50m
50m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
runners
15.4km
01:41
260m
260m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
If you’re looking for a spot with a "dark history meets beautiful views" vibe, Combe Gibbet is exactly that. Perched high on Gallows Down (the name gives it away, doesn't it?) on the border of Berkshire and Hampshire, it’s one of the most atmospheric places in the North Wessex Downs. Here’s the story behind this lonely landmark: The "Double Trouble" Origin Story The gibbet isn't just a random decoration; it was built in 1676 for a very specific and grim reason. A local man named George Broomham and his mistress, Dorothy Newman, were convicted of murdering George's wife and son. As a warning to others, the authorities built a massive double-arm gibbet to hang them in chains right on the parish boundary. The one you see today is a replica (the 7th or 8th version!), but it stands in the exact same spot, looking quite eerie against the skyline. Why It’s Actually a Lovely Visit Despite the macabre history, people flock here for reasons that have nothing to do with 17th-century crime: The Views: Because it sits on the crest of the ridge (near Walbury Hill, the highest point in South East England), you can see for miles. On a clear day, you can look across the Kennet Valley all the way to the Cotswolds. The Paragliders: It’s a legendary spot for paragliding and hang-gliding. It’s incredibly relaxing to sit in the grass and watch them launch off the steep scarp and circle over the valley like giant birds. Ancient History: The gibbet is actually built on top of a Neolithic Long Barrow (a 5,000-year-old burial mound). So, it’s been a significant "high place" for humans for a very, very long time.
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Replacements and Legacy: The original gibbet from 1676 eventually deteriorated. The current gibbet is actually the seventh to stand on the site. Previous versions were replaced due to rotting, being struck by lightning, vandalism, or being blown down by strong winds. The current replica was erected in 1992. While the gibbet was only ever used for the display of George Bromham and Dorothy Newman, its grim history has made it a local landmark and a popular spot for walkers, hang-gliders, and paragliders, offering expansive views across Berkshire, Hampshire, and Wiltshire. The story of the murders even inspired a 1948 silent film called "The Black Legend," made by a young John Schlesinger.
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The Gibbet's Purpose: After their execution, their bodies were brought back to Inkpen and prepared for public display. A large, double gibbet was hastily erected on the long barrow. The bodies of George and Dorothy, bound in chains, were then displayed on either side of the gibbet on March 6, 1676, as a stark and gruesome warning to the local community to deter similar crimes. The location was chosen due to its prominence and being on the border of the two parishes, as there was a dispute over which parish should bear the cost of the gibbet.
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The Murders and Gibbeting: The Crime: George Bromham, a married farm labourer from Combe, and Dorothy Newman, a widow from Inkpen, were having an illicit affair. To be together, they murdered George's wife, Martha Bromham, and their son, Robert. Accounts vary, but it's believed they waylaid Martha and Robert and beat them to death with staves near where the gibbet now stands. One dramatic, though likely far-fetched, version suggests George killed his wife by thrusting her head into a hornet's nest. The Witness: The crime was reportedly witnessed by a villager known as "Mad Thomas," who alerted the authorities. Trial and Execution: George Bromham and Dorothy Newman were tried at Winchester Assizes. They were found guilty and hanged in Winchester on March 3, 1676.
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Any climb is generally worth it for the views at the top, this is in the top few for a far reaching vista.
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Combe Gibbet is an impressive landmark at the top of Gallows Down, near Combe. It is actually located on the Test Way footpath on the Berkshire-Hampshire border and is a well-known local landmark. Historically, the gibbet was only used once back in 1676 to display the bodies of George Broomham and Dorothy Newman. Both were hanged for murdering Broomham’s wife and son, who discovered their extramarital affair, but alas, there was a witness, and things didn’t work out so well for them. Since that time, the gibbet has been replaced seven times, the last time back in 1992. Now it is just a tourist attraction and an area where you have stunning views out over the surrounding countryside. With a nearby car park, it is also a popular spot with hang gliding and paragliding enthusiasts.
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Climb out of Vernham Dean around 7.5% with steep bits in first third and short final push to the top. Half way up, kites can be seen soaring at eye level and calling over the adjacent valley.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available around Hurstbourne Tarrant?
There are nearly 360 running routes around Hurstbourne Tarrant. These include 36 easy routes, 271 moderate routes, and 52 difficult routes, offering a wide variety of options for all fitness levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the jogging trails in Hurstbourne Tarrant?
The jogging trails in Hurstbourne Tarrant feature diverse terrain, including rolling hills, chalk downland, and tranquil woodlands. You'll find off-road rural footpaths and woodland tracks, with some routes, like those around Combe Gibbet, offering significant elevation changes and panoramic views. Be prepared for varied surfaces, which can sometimes be uneven or slippery, especially on multi-terrain paths.
Are there any family-friendly running routes in the area?
Yes, Hurstbourne Tarrant offers several routes suitable for families. While specific 'family-friendly' routes aren't explicitly detailed, the 36 easy routes available provide gentler options. Look for paths with less elevation gain and shorter distances for a more relaxed family outing.
Can I bring my dog on the running trails around Hurstbourne Tarrant?
Many of the rural footpaths and woodland tracks in the Hurstbourne Tarrant area are suitable for dog walking and running. However, as routes often pass through farmland and areas with livestock, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead and follow the Countryside Code. Specific komoot routes may also indicate if they are dog-friendly.
What are some notable landmarks or points of interest I might see while running?
You can encounter several interesting landmarks and natural features. Highlights include the historic Combe Gibbet, offering extensive views, and the Ladle Hill Iron Age Hillfort, a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest. Many routes also pass through picturesque woodlands like Faccombe Wood and Doles Wood, and along the River Swift in the Bourne Valley.
Are there any circular running routes in Hurstbourne Tarrant?
Yes, many of the running routes in Hurstbourne Tarrant are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Doles Wood – Windmill Hill loop from Upper Enham is a popular circular option that takes you through woodlands and offers panoramic views.
Where can I find parking for the running trails?
While specific parking locations for every trail are not detailed, Hurstbourne Tarrant village itself and nearby trailheads often have designated parking areas. For routes starting from specific villages like Upper Enham or Linkenholt, look for public parking facilities in those vicinities. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival.
What do other runners say about the trails in Hurstbourne Tarrant?
The running routes in Hurstbourne Tarrant are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 2500 runners have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the challenging multi-terrain routes, picturesque chalk downland, and tranquil woodlands.
Are there any running routes that offer particularly scenic views?
Absolutely. Routes that ascend to higher points like Combe Gibbet on Gallows Down or Windmill Hill are renowned for their panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The View from Combe Gibbet – Combe Gibbet loop from Linkenholt is a great choice for extensive vistas.
Are there any easy running routes for beginners?
Yes, Hurstbourne Tarrant offers 36 easy running routes, perfect for beginners or those looking for a less strenuous run. These routes typically have less elevation gain and cover shorter distances, allowing you to enjoy the scenery at a comfortable pace. An example of a moderate route that is not overly challenging is the Anton Lakes Nature Reserve loop from Smannell.
What is the best time of year to go running in Hurstbourne Tarrant?
Hurstbourne Tarrant offers enjoyable running conditions throughout the year, but each season has its charm. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is ideal for shaded woodland routes, while winter can offer crisp, clear runs, though some paths may be muddy or slippery, especially along winterbourne streams like the River Swift.
Are there any long-distance paths that pass through Hurstbourne Tarrant?
Yes, parts of the 44-mile Test Way, a long-distance walking route, run through Hurstbourne Tarrant, offering beautiful views of unspoilt countryside. The 70-mile Wayfarers Walk also connects with other long-distance paths in the wider region, providing extensive options for longer runs.
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