Where to run in Wales

If you’re on holiday here and want to run during your visit, a good tip is to get in touch with the local running club. The Welsh Athletics website has a handy searchable list.

If you run, then you'll know all about Parkrun, an international phenomenon that’s enjoyed by millions of people worldwide. The free 5km run is held on a Saturday morning in parks in 1,400 locations in five continents – including around 40 runs in Wales. The Junior parkrun Cardiff is a fun, free, and friendly 2k event held every Sunday morning for children aged 4 to 14, encouraging fitness and community spirit in the heart of the city.

Here are a few personal recommendations for great running routes to try from running clubs around Cymru. With their help, and a bit of training, you'll be well on your way to achieving your personal best.

There are some lovely routes to stretch your legs and enjoy the stunning surroundings of North Wales.

northThe 5k route of Newborough Forest parkrun on Llanddwyn Island, Anglesey, is, according to Harry Morgan of Jog On, possibly the most scenic Parkrun in the UK. This tidal island is steeped in legend and surrounded by golden beaches, pine forests, and panoramic sea views. The flat, sandy paths through calming native woodlands make it perfect for an easy jog or a longer coastal run, with plenty of photo-worthy stops along the way.

• Terrain: Forest trails, grass paths, beach
• Distance: 5km loop
• Start/End: Car park adjacent to the beach
• Highlights: Island views, Niwbwrch (Newborough) Forest, coastal inspiration
• Suitable for: Casual runners, nature lovers, scenic seekers

Runner recommendation: “Running here feels like freedom – the sea on one side, mountains on the other. Llanddwyn is pure magic.” –  Harry Morgan’s, Jog On, YouTube
 

A spectacular coastal road run around the Great Orme (Y Gogarth) in Llandudno, offering a mix of fast tarmac, sea views, and rural charm. The classic route runs from one tollgate to the other (approx. 4 miles / 6.5km), but runners can shorten or extend the distance, including a higher trail above the road for added challenge.

Route details:

• Terrain: Coastal road, optional hill trail
• Distance: 6.5km out-and-back (extendable)
• Start/End: Either tollgate on Marine Drive, Llandudno
• Highlights: Views of Liverpool Bay, the Carneddau, Ynys Môn, and dramatic limestone cliffs
• Suitable for: Road runners, coastal explorers, hill seekers

Runner recommendation:

"Running around the Great Orme encompasses everything I enjoy about road running – rural atmosphere, spectacular views, and a route that never gets boring." - Jon Evans, North Wales Road Runners Club

From the visitor centre at Coed y Brenin, trail options range from a gentle 2.7-mile loop to a challenging 13.5-mile half marathon - perfect for both beginners and seasoned runners. One standout is the 5km Sarn Helen short course, a moderate run with a 97m climb. It offers panoramic views of southern Eryri’s mountains, cascading rivers, and oak forests. The route climbs to the Cefndeuddwr ridge, where you join the ancient Roman road of Sarn Helen before descending back to the visitor centre.

Route details:

• Terrain: Forest trails, Roman road (Sarn Helen), ridge climbs
• Distance Options: 2.7-mile loop (easy), 5km Sarn Helen (moderate, 97m climb), 13.5-mile half marathon (challenging)
• Start/End: Visitor centre
• Suitable for: Beginners to seasoned trail runners

Runner recommendation:
"It is a lovely and quiet place to run, with plenty of varied scenery, which makes this course one of my favourites." - Lowri Morgan, Adventurer and Athlete

This 10km trail blends history and nature for a run full of discovery. Starting at the iconic Llangollen Bridge, follow the canal past working horses and the world’s oldest Chain Bridge. Glide by Horseshoe Falls before climbing Velvet Hill and looping around its base. You'll pass Valle Crucis Abbey and the Pillar of Eliseg before a steady climb back towards town. For those up for a challenge, a final ascent to Castell Dinas Bran offers sweeping views of Llangollen and the dramatic Panorama cliffs.

Route details:

• Terrain: Canal towpath, historical landmarks, hill climbs, farm tracks
• Distance: ~10km+ with optional climb to Castell Dinas Bran
• Highlights: Horseshoe Falls, Valle Crucis Abbey, Pillar of Eliseg
• Suitable for: History lovers, adventure seekers
• Follow Owen's Llangollen run route on Strava.

Runner recommendation:

"This route is a perfect blend of history and scenery. From the iconic Llangollen Bridge and canal towpath to Horseshoe Falls and Valle Crucis Abbey, every step tells a story. The optional climb to Castell Dinas Bran rewards with panoramic views and a thrilling descent back to town."- Owen Lovelock, Run Free Fell Runners

This 5km loop at Llyn Brenig offers a refreshing mix of moorland, woodland, and lakeside trails. Starting from the car park, cross the dam and head down towards Clocaenog Forest. Follow winding forest paths before looping back along the edge of the reservoir. With varied terrain and stunning views, it’s an ideal route for runners and walkers seeking a scenic escape.

Route details:

• Terrain: Moorland trails, woodland, dirt tracks
• Distance: 5km loop
• Start/End: Car park at Llyn Brenig Reservoir
• Highlights: Dam crossing, Clocaenog Forest, lakeside views
• Suitable for: Mixed-terrain runners and walkers

Runner recommendation:

"The course incorporates a variety of different terrains, including moorland trails, woodland areas and dirt tracks." - Lowri Morgan, Adventurer and Athlete.

From wooded valleys to rugged peaks, Mid Wales trails promise discovery at every turn.

midA scenic and inspiring run through the heart of the Elan Valley, this route follows the historic Birmingham Corporation railway line and showcases the area's reservoirs and dramatic valley views. With a solid path throughout, it’s ideal for runners of all abilities seeking a peaceful yet invigorating experience.

Route details:

• Terrain: Solid path, gentle climbs, reservoir views
• Distance: ~5 miles (with optional 2 km extension to Craig Goch Dam)
• Start/End: Elan Valley Visitor Centre
• Highlights: Carreg Ddu Reservoir, Pen-y-Garreg Reservoir, panoramic valley views
• Suitable for: All-level runners, history lovers, scenery seekers

Runner recommendation:

"As you approach, you’ll be rewarded with impressive views of the surrounding valleys, as well as the area's four reservoirs. The journey ends at the Pen-y-Garreg Reservoir car park. If you wish to continue a little further, you can carry on to Craig Goch Dam for a further 2 km, to complete almost 5 miles." - Lowri Morgan, Adventurer and Athlete.

A rewarding run through the quieter trails of the Black Mountains near Abergavenny, this route offers a mix of forest paths, wildflower meadows, and open heather-covered ridges. With a steep climb and sweeping views, it’s a perfect choice for runners seeking solitude and inspiration in nature.

Route details:

• Terrain: Forest trails, heather moorland, maintained paths
• Distance: ~5km loop
• Start/End: Car park near The Skirrid trailhead
• Highlights: Wildflowers, panoramic views of the Black Mountains, Bannau Brycheiniog, and the Wales-England border
• Suitable for: Moderate-level runners, nature lovers, summit seekers

Runner recommendation:
"I prefer to make my way towards the quieter routes of Llyn y Fan Fawr and Llyn y Fan Fach. Further east, and equally as impressive are the Black Mountains in Monmouthshire." - Lowri Morgan.

Set on the River Teifi estuary, Aberteifi is a vibrant hub for runners in West Wales. With routes spanning beaches, coastal paths, villages, and hills, there’s something for everyone. The local running club hosts inclusive social runs every Wednesday, with routes varying from coastal stretches to riverside trails. Summer brings a family-friendly 5k series on Poppit Sands, and for those seeking a challenge, there are steep climbs into the surrounding hills.

Route details:

• Terrain: Coastal paths, estuary trails, country lanes, beach
• Distance: Varies (~5–10km)
• Start/End: Cardigan town centre
• Highlights: Poppit Sands, Gwbert coast, Cilgerran Wildlife Centre, estuary views
• Suitable for: Social runners, families, hill lovers, sunset chasers

Runner recommendation:

"If I had to pick a favourite run, it’d be the route from Cardigan through the lanes to Ferwig. The highlight? A glorious 2.4km descent behind the Cliff Hotel, with sweeping views over Cardigan Island, the beach and the estuary. Catch it at sunset and it’s pure magic." - Russell Williams, Cardigan Running Club.

Winding through cliffs, beaches, and heritage towns, these trails pack a wow factor for every kind of runner.

westThere’s a huge choice of running routes on offer, particularly along the Wales Coast Path. The Caswell Bay to Mumbles route ia a 5km stretch that’s as invigorating as it is inspiring. This route begins at the Caswell Bay car park, just behind the café and ice cream shop. From there, follow the winding path along the cliffs to Langland Bay, where colourful beach huts line the shore. The trail continues around the headland to Bracelet Bay, before descending to the finish at Mumbles Pier. The Clyne Valley route is popular (especially as it is a fast track, and therefore a good choice for those aiming to achieve a Personal Best).

Route details:

• Terrain: Coastal path, paved promenade, cliffside trails
• Distance: ~5km one-way
• Start: Caswell Bay car park
• End: Mumbles Pier
• Highlights: Langland Bay beach huts, sweeping sea views, iconic Mumbles Lighthouse
• Suitable for: All levels – from PB chasers to scenic strollers

Runner recommendation:

"As a Gower girl, it would be impossible for me not to talk about running in this part of the world. To stretch your legs after your run, take a gentle stroll along the marina and reward yourself with one of the area’s famous ice creams." - Lowri Morgan, Adventurer and Athlete.

This scenic 10km loop begins at the entrance to Castell Newydd Emlyn and trails. Runners pass historic landmarks like the castle ruins and the legendary site of Wales’ last dragon,Y Wiber. The route climbs through town before descending into Cenarth to admire the iconic falls, then winds through bluebell-filled woods, past an old mill and chapel, and returns via the hamlet of Pont Ceri. The run finishes with a stretch through the castle gates and a moment to take in the sweeping views of the Teifi Valley at the Dragon’s Egg sculpture.

Route details:

• Terrain: Road, lanes, riverside paths, woodland trails
• Distance: ~10km loop
• Start/End: Castle entrance, Newcastle Emlyn
• Highlights: Castle ruins, River Teifi, Cenarth Falls, bluebell woods
• Suitable for: Trail lovers, hill runners, heritage explorers

Runner recommendation:

"This hilly 10km loop captures the very best of the local landscape: a mix of road, quiet lanes and woodland tracks, with a generous helping of history, legend and natural beauty." - Heulwen James, Rhedywr Emlyn Running Club

Just two minutes from junction 47 of the M4 near Swansea lies a hidden gem for runners: Penllergare Valley Woods. With over 11km of paths winding through 31 square kilometres of restored woodland, it’s a haven for those who love to run surrounded by nature. This picturesque spot offers something for everyone. Whether you’re chasing a PB or just starting out, the trails here are welcoming and wonderfully scenic. The area has undergone extensive restoration and is entering a new phase of rejuvenation, making each visit feel fresh and full of discovery.

Route details:

• Terrain: Woodland trails, gravel paths, gentle inclines
• Distance: ~10km (varied loops available)
• Start/End: Penllergare Valley Woods car park
• Highlights: Waterfall, exotic plants, birdsong, panoramic woodland views
• Suitable for: Beginners, trail runners, nature seekers

Runner recommendation:

"Penllergare is also home to a popular 10k race and a thriving Couch to 5k group - ideal for those beginning their running journey. For more information or to plan your visit, check out the trails on the Visit Swansea Bay site." - Mike Prasad, 3M Gorseinon Road Runners.

southJust 45 minutes by car from Cardiff, Cwm Dare Country Park offers a stunning escape into nature. Set on the site of a former coal mine, this 500-acre park blends woodland, mountain views, and lakes into a rich landscape perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

This scenic loop is ideal for runners who crave variety and natural beauty. Whether you're training or simply exploring, the park’s terrain offers a refreshing challenge.

Route details:

• Terrain: Forest trails, grass paths, lakeside loops
• Distance: ~3.5 km Bwllfa Trail, with optional lake extension
• Start/End: Visitor centre near the car park
• Highlights: Waterfalls, red kite viewing platform, woodland serenity
• Suitable for: Casual runners, nature lovers, trail seekers

Runners recommendation:

"I’ve run countless routes, but Cwm Dare stands out. I once spent 12 hours running here during a race—surrounded by waterfalls, forest trails, and soaring red kites. It’s not just a run, it’s an experience.” Lowri Morgan, Adventurer and Athlete.

There are lots of great running routes and events in Caerdydd and it’s home to five different Parkruns. The most popular is in Bute Park, where 600-800 runners regularly trot around the Welsh capital’s great green heart. Caerdydd-based runner Charlotte Arter, British 10,000m champion and former Welsh half-marathon record holder, is a regular face at Bute Park. In January 2019, she casually turned up for a Saturday morning run and, almost by accident, set a women’s world Parkrun record of 15:50. A year later, she shaved off another second.

Though the world record has since moved to Belfast, Charlotte still holds the Bute Park women’s record - a testament to the magic of this route and the community that powers it.

Route details:

• Terrain: Park paths, riverside trails, flat and fast
• Distance: 5km
• Start/End: Bute Park, Caerdydd
• Highlights: River Taff, city centre greenery, community spirit
• Suitable for: Beginners, PB hunters, social runners

Runner recommendation:

"The Taff Trail and Bute Park is my go-to, because it’s on my doorstep. It’s really good because you can just run round the park, go off onto the grass if you want to, and the Taff Trail goes on for miles." - Charlotte Arter, British Distance Athlete.

A scenic woodland route just north of Caerdydd, ideal for runners seeking peaceful trails and a touch of history. Starting at the red gate below Castell Coch, the loop follows Sir Henry’s Trail to the north car park, then returns via a dirt path and the Sculpture Trail. The terrain is smooth and non-technical, making it suitable for all levels.

Route details:

• Terrain: Gravel paths, forest trails
• Distance: ~5km loop
• Start/End: Red gate at the base of Castell Coch walkway
• Highlights: Gothic castle views, forest sculptures, post-run tea rooms
• Suitable for: All levels, especially casual and scenic runners

Runner recommendation:

"The trails around Castell Coch are a hidden gem—quiet, varied, and perfect for a relaxed run with a rewarding finish at the 'Forest' Tea Rooms which are hidden in the forest." - Lowri Morgan, Adventurer and Athlete.

Exploring the outdoors is fantastic fun, but please read up on the risks and make sure you are prepared.

• Find safety advice for exploring Wales' National Parks and safety tips for staying safe on the Welsh coast.
• Visit AdventureSmart.uk for information on how to stay safe whilst exploring Wales.

Help Wales become the first Refill Nation by using nearby Refill Points to fill up your water bottle. Find out more including how to download the Refill Wales app to find your nearest Refill Point on the Refill Wales website.