Forestry England is celebrating an extraordinary milestone: ten thousand parkrun events completed across its forests nationwide. From the towering pines of Sherwood to the rugged climbs of Whinlatter, these weekly 5K events have inspired thousands of people to lace up their trainers, breathe in the forest air, and find joy in nature.
Every Saturday morning, thousands of runners, walkers, and volunteers gather at Forestry England sites to take part in parkrun — the free, timed, community event that’s become one of the UK’s most inclusive fitness movements. And with growing numbers choosing to run under the forest canopy, these events are proving that exercise in nature offers something truly special.
As parkrun has grown across Forestry England sites, with over 100,000 participants now calling a Forestry England location their home parkrun, it is also helping attract visitors from further afield. More people are now travelling to experience beautiful, distinctive routes in beautiful settings, with forest-based parkruns becoming a memorable reason to visit a new place.
Rachel Tallon, Forestry England Active Forests Programme Manager says:
“It’s inspiring to see so many people finding connection, confidence and community in our nation’s forests. Running among the trees isn’t just good for fitness, it boosts mood, reduces stress, and helps people feel part of something bigger.”
To mark the milestone, Forestry England has unveiled its top 10 parkrun events to take part in across the country.
Forestry England’s top 10 forest parkrun events
- Sherwood Pines, Nottinghamshire
Start your run with a gentle downhill through an avenue of towering trees and soak up the energy of hundreds of runners around you. The one-lap course combines rolling hills with sweeping views, ending with a final climb framed by beech and chestnut trees.
- Whinlatter Forest, Cumbria
Nicknamed ‘Beauty and the Beast’, this legendary course has the most elevation in England. With panoramic views across the Lake District, it’s as tough as it is beautiful.
- Moors Valley Country Park, Dorset
Run past tranquil lakes, through towering pines and along beautifully maintained forest trails in this much‑loved south‑coast parkrun. The wide paths and gentle undulations make it ideal for both first‑timers and seasoned runners, while the resident wildlife and scenic views offer a peaceful escape. With a bustling café and lakeside play areas nearby, it’s a perfect spot for a family morning out after your 5K.
- Wendover Woods, Buckinghamshire
Discover your inner trail runner on this single-loop course through stunning Chiltern woodland. Its peaceful paths and uplifting views make it one of the most rewarding parkruns in the south.
- Haldon Forest Park, Devon
With sweeping views over the Exe estuary and a famously friendly atmosphere, Haldon’s course delivers a true sense of occasion. Expect cheering volunteers (often in fancy dress) and a finish-line buzz that’s hard to beat.
- Alice Holt Forest, Hampshire
Tackle the famous ‘Dragon Hill’ before finishing at the forest café for a well-earned treat. Known for its warm welcome and strong community spirit, Alice Holt attracts everyone from first-timers to international visitors.
- Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire
Known as the Great Yorkshire Forest, Dalby’s circular route weaves through towering trees, open meadows and peaceful stretches alongside a gentle beck. After crossing the finish line, runners can buy a well‑earned brew from the café and enjoy plenty of encouragement from the local volunteers.
- Bedgebury Pinetum and Forest, Kent
Run through a world-renowned collection of conifers in this inclusive and welcoming parkrun. Whether you’re running, walking, or pushing a buggy, you’ll find friendly faces, forest trails and a scenic café stop at the end.
- Delamere Forest, Cheshire
Run the much‑loved Blackmere Trail as it winds through peaceful woodland and past the shimmering Blakemere Moss. With mature trees providing shelter year‑round and the chance to spot black‑headed gulls, rare Mediterranean gulls and wintering wildfowl, it’s a scenic and welcoming route for all runners.
- Mallards Pike, Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire
Escape into tranquillity on this peaceful woodland route, where you might spot deer or buzzards as you run. A downhill stretch and enthusiastic volunteers make for the perfect Saturday morning reset.
All Forestry England parkruns are free and open to everyone, from beginners to seasoned runners. To find your nearest event and join the next forest parkrun, visit forestryengland.uk/parkrun.
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