Best places to go running around Berkshire

Runners in the Chiltern hills

For some, running is as essential as breathing. For others, a little motivation is required. This could be a goal in the form of a 10k to work towards, or simply an amazing view or a different route to try. We have them all in the Berkshire area.

If you're starting out, a good way to begin on a more domestic scale before you hit the open countryside is to follow a ready made trail. Cliveden's fitness trail weaves through its beautiful woodland. It also has the advantage of sitting on a plateau above the River Thames so has the dual advantage of amazing views but the option of no hills. There are ten exercise stations on the trail including straddle jump, pole climb, vault and parallel bars. 

A trail map of the fitness trail at Cliveden in Buckinghamshire

Fitness trail 

Burn calories and build muscle in our outdoor gym. There are a few pieces of equipment providing a fun way to test and improve your agility, strength and stamina.

Basildon Park also has a range of parkland walks that will repurpose as short runs to build confidence. 

Behind shot of parent and child walking in the winter

Winter walking at Basildon Park  

This winter try one of the self-led estate walks in our 400 acres of parkland. There are four walks to choose from which vary in length from 0.5 miles to 3 miles. Find out more about what to expect on your winter walk at Basildon Park.

When you're ready to hit the open countryside, Maidenhead and Cookham Commons has some lovely runs with a river view and relatively flat profile. In winter, wading and water birds flock to the marshes and in summer the meadows are bright with wild flowers. 

Oak leaves covered in frost

Maidenhead and Cookham Commons 

Enjoy the landscape of the Commons on a winter walk. From migrating birds to majestic deer, you can see some of the best of nature against the frosty backdrop of the colder months.

As you get more confident, it's time to hit the hills. The Chilterns is close enough to be accessible if you're looking far-reaching views, rolling hills and beech woodlands. There are many beautiful running routes to inspire you. If you need a goal to work towards, the Bradenham Bolt 10k trail run is held in October on the Bradenham Estate near High Wycombe. It's a fully off-road run and you can even take your dog along with you (on a canicross harness). 

Runners taking part in the 2015 Bradenham Bolt race

Bradenham Bolt 9 October 2016 

The Bradenham Bolt is the only fully off-road 10k trail run in the area where you can run with your dog. Run through glorious beech woods and chalk grassland on the Bradenham estate and help look after this special place.

For training runs in the area, any of the downloadable walks in the Chilterns Countryside can be used as running routes. There are distances ranging from two to eight and a half miles, so plenty of choice, whatever your ability. 

Bradenham village and estate in Buckinghamshire

Chilterns Countryside 

Winter can be a wonderful time to get out and explore the Chilterns. We have a variety of walks to suit all abilities. The latest walk joins three National Trust properties together, Hughenden, West Wycombe and Bradenham.

As with all our runs and walks, fantastic views are guaranteed.