7 of the Best UK Trail Running Locations for Your Next Adventure
- Laura Whyms
- May 11
- 4 min read
The UK is packed with incredible trail running destinations, from rugged mountain landscapes to dramatic coastal paths and rolling countryside trails. Whether you are looking for adventurous running holidays, relaxed running weekends, or unforgettable trail running vacations, there is something for every type of runner here.
At Run Weekends, we are always searching for the best places for trail running holidays in the UK, Europe and the rest of the world! These are some of our favourite UK trail running locations for scenic miles, incredible views and memorable running adventures.
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Scotland: The West Highland Way
The West Highland Way is one of the most iconic long-distance trails in the UK and easily one of the best places for a trail running adventure. Stretching through the Scottish Highlands, the route passes lochs, mountains, glens and remote wilderness, with constantly changing scenery along the way.
The terrain is varied and challenging, making it ideal for runners looking for adventure running holidays or multi-day running trips. From the shores of Loch Lomond to the dramatic landscapes of Glencoe, every section feels wild and unforgettable. It is the perfect destination for runners wanting a true sense of journey and escape.
Wales: Pembrokeshire Coast Path
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path offers some of the most beautiful coastal trail running in the UK. Expect rolling cliff paths, hidden beaches, sea views and endless fresh air. The route constantly rises and falls, creating challenging but rewarding running.
This is an amazing location for trail running holidays for singles, group running retreats or active weekends away with friends. The scenery is spectacular year-round, and there is something special about finishing a run overlooking the ocean after spending hours on the trails.
The Lake District
The Lake District National Park is one of the UK’s ultimate destinations for trail runners and mountain lovers. With technical trails, steep climbs and panoramic views across lakes and fells, it is perfect for runners looking for challenging running adventures.
Whether you are running ridgelines, exploring valleys or taking on famous peaks like Helvellyn, every run feels dramatic and rewarding. The Lake District is ideal for trail running vacations, running holidays in Europe and adventure running holidays where the scenery is just as memorable as the miles.
Cornwall
Cornwall combines relaxed coastal living with some of the best trail running in the country. Running along the South West Coast Path means rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, fishing villages and incredible sea views almost the entire way.
The trails are rolling rather than mountainous, making Cornwall a brilliant choice for running weekends, social running trips and trail running holidays in the UK. There is also something special about finishing a coastal run before heading to the beach, a local café or a sunset by the sea.
Bamburgh
Bamburgh is one of the UK’s most underrated running destinations. The beaches here are huge, peaceful and perfect for relaxed running, especially at sunrise or sunset. Running with Bamburgh Castle in the background feels incredibly scenic and unique.
This area is ideal for runners wanting quieter running vacations away from busy tourist hotspots. The combination of coastal trails, dunes and beach running makes it a fantastic location for a running retreat or a relaxed running holiday focused on scenery and recovery.
The New Forest
The New Forest National Park offers a completely different trail running experience. Here, the trails are gentle, flowing and highly runnable, winding through ancient woodland, heathland and open countryside. Wild ponies and deer are often spotted along the routes, adding to the peaceful atmosphere.
The New Forest is ideal for beginners, social running weekends and runners wanting lower-impact trails. It is one of the best places in the UK for easy miles, recovery running and relaxed trail running holidays surrounded by nature.
The South Downs
The South Downs Way is famous for its rolling hills, wide gravel paths and sweeping countryside views. The trails are incredibly runnable, making it a brilliant destination for endurance training, long-distance running and trail running tours in the UK.
With charming villages, open ridgelines and beautiful sunsets, the South Downs offers the perfect mix of challenge and accessibility. It works equally well for experienced trail runners and those new to trail running adventures.
Book a Trail Running Holiday with Run Weekends
At Run Weekends, we create running holidays, running weekends and trail running adventures designed to help people explore incredible places through running. From coastal trails and mountain routes to social running retreats and adventure running holidays, our trips are about much more than just the miles.
Whether you are looking for trail running holidays in the UK, running holidays for singles, trail running vacations in Europe or unforgettable running trips with like-minded people, we would love to help you find your next adventure. Explore our upcoming running weekends and trail running tours to discover where your next run could take you.
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