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Unforgettable trail runs designed by our rangers

Runners taking part in a parkrun at Blickling Estate, Norfolk
Runners on the Blickling Estate, Norfolk | © National Trust Images/Gerald Peachey

These trail runs will show you some of the best sights at the places we look after. They've been hand-picked by the rangers who care for them, so you can experience their favourite coastal paths and wild landscapes first-hand.

Blickling Estate, Norfolk
With its yew hedges, gardens and acres of historic parkland, Blickling Estate is a great place to run. Take this looped trail alongside lakes and quiet woods, where you might spot barn owls flying between the trees. Find your rhythm along winding paths and under towering trees, taking in the gardens as you start your cool-down.Go on a Ranger Run at Blickling Estate
Coleton Fishacre, Devon
Starting in Coleton Fishacre’s exotic garden, this run is filled with natural highlights. Run along coastal paths and listen to the sea crashing against the jagged rocks below. You'll also pass Pudcombe Cove and Froward Point – a Second World War gun location with views over the craggy slopes of Mewstone.Go on a Ranger Run at Coleton Fishacre
Craflwyn, Gwynedd
Steeped in myth and legend, let the rugged landscape at Craflwyn capture your imagination. Follow the circular trail through the Nant Gwynant valley, along the lower slopes of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) and past the remains of old copper mines. Look out for waterfalls with jagged rock faces, where you can hear the roar of tumbling streams.Go on a Ranger Run at Craflwyn
East Soar, Devon
Head out on this circular run along the cliffs at East Soar. Run through a wild, partially tamed landscape with views of the ocean, sandy beaches and farmland. Wildlife lovers will spot long-horned Highland cattle grazing on the rich grassland and raptors flying overhead.Go on a Ranger Run at East Soar
Cray Beck waterfall at Upper Wharfedale
Cray Beck waterfall at Upper Wharfedale, Yorkshire Dales | © National Trust Images/Peter Katic
Polesden Lacey, Surrey
At Polesden Lacy, take a break from the everyday when you run wild across historic parkland. Listen to your feet pounding the ground when you run through peaceful woods, and look out over acres of chalk grassland as you emerge from the trees.Go on a Ranger Run at Polesden Lacey
Rhosili, Swansea
Follow this invigorating 10km trail along stretches of coastline and rugged headland overlooking the sea. You’ll also see a patchwork of fields full of vital habitats showing the nature-friendly work rangers and local farmers have carried out. Take off your trainers when you’re on Rhosili beach so you can feel the sand between your toes.Go on a Ranger Run at Rhosili
Souter Lighthouse, Tyne and Wear
Discover how wildlife now dominates a landscape once known for its coal mining industry. Starting at the red and white tower of Souter Lighthouse, this short but enjoyable run takes in a full lap of the Whitburn Coastal Park nature reserve. Once full of pitheads, it now features a variety of wildlife habitats, including ponds and an artificial sand martin nest bank.Go on a Ranger Run at Souter Lighthouse
Upper Wharfedale, Yorkshire Dales
Run along the River Wharfe, through woodland and past unique views of the countryside. Take in nature and even a medieval church on this circular run.Go on a Ranger Run at Upper Wharfedale

How your trail run helps look after nature and wildlife

We know that when people love spending time in a place surrounded by natural beauty, they’re more motivated to look after it. Trail runners support our work by spending money in our car parks, cafés and shops, as well as with National Trust membership or generous donations.

Funds go towards local projects, such as the tree-planting and controlled grazing that have helped Malham Tarn and Fountains Fell in Yorkshire become full of life.

The support we get from runners goes beyond the money they spend at our places:

Many runners pick up rubbish as they go, which is a very simple way to help with conservation. Some runners also volunteer with us, to learn more about the landscape they run in and help to protect it for future generations.

A quote by Roisin Black Area Ranger at Florence Court, County Fermanagh
Visitors exploring the rocks in the Owler Tor area of Longshaw, Burbage and the Eastern Moors, Derbyshire

Outdoor activities

Take your pick from a range of activities in the landscapes we care for. It's easy to make the most of being outdoors with us.

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