The best running trails around Staunton Harold

Staunton Harold offers a good selection of running routes, with over 10 trails to explore. These routes cater to various preferences, from moderate loops around the reservoir to longer runs connecting to nearby attractions.

The terrain around Staunton Harold is quite varied. You'll find picturesque waterside paths, vibrant wildflower meadows, and diverse woodlands. The area is characterized by rolling green hills, offering long-distance views, and paths can range from accessible tarmac to more challenging trails with stiles, slopes, and potentially muddy ground, especially after rain.

Yes, there are options suitable for beginners. The 2.5km (1.5-mile) scenic wildflower walk along the reservoir bank features a lower tarmac path, which is suitable for year-round use and varying fitness levels. While most routes are rated moderate, this section provides an accessible starting point.

While most routes are rated as moderate, the longer trails offer a good challenge. For instance, the Calke Abbey Lakeside Walk – Deer Park at Calke Abbey loop from Staunton Harold is an 8.2-mile (13.2 km) trail with over 137 meters of elevation gain, providing a more extended and varied running experience.

Absolutely. The Staunton Harold Reservoir is a central feature for circular runs. A 1.4-mile (2.5km) circular walk around the reservoir offers excellent views over the water and wildflower meadows, perfect for a scenic loop.

Running through Dimminsdale Nature Reserve offers a unique blend of nature and history. This Site of Special Scientific Interest features open water ponds and diverse vegetation. You can also spot interesting industrial archaeology, such as derelict lime burning kilns, adding a unique historical dimension to your run. The Dimminsdale Nature Reserve – Staunton Harold Hall Lake loop from Staunton Harold is a great way to experience this area.

Yes, you can. Public footpaths connect Staunton Harold to the nearby National Trust Calke Abbey, allowing for extended exploration through its historic parkland and woodlands. The walk from Staunton Harold to Calke Abbey is approximately 2.7km (1.7 miles) one way. The Calke Abbey Lakeside Walk – Deer Park at Calke Abbey loop from Staunton Harold is a popular route that incorporates this connection.

Many of the trails around Staunton Harold are dog-friendly, especially those on public footpaths and within the wider countryside. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, particularly around livestock, wildlife, and in nature reserves like Dimminsdale, to protect the environment and other visitors.

Yes, Staunton Harold is suitable for family-friendly runs. The accessible tarmac path along the reservoir, which is 2.5km (1.5 miles) long, is ideal for families with varying fitness levels. The scenic environment and relatively flat sections make it enjoyable for all ages.

Along your runs, you can enjoy views of the expansive Staunton Harold Reservoir and the historic Staunton Harold Hall and Chapel of the Holy Trinity. The Deer Park at Calke Abbey is also a notable natural highlight if you extend your run there. Additionally, the Tower Windmill often dominates the skyline and is integrated into various routes.

The running routes in Staunton Harold are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from more than 50 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse landscapes, including the picturesque reservoir paths, vibrant wildflower meadows, and varied woodlands. The connection to Calke Abbey and the historical elements like Dimminsdale Nature Reserve also receive positive feedback.

Yes, the area offers amenities to enhance your visit. The Ferrers Centre for Arts & Crafts, housed in the former stables of Staunton Harold Hall, provides additional points of interest and amenities, including cafes. There are also various pubs and accommodation options in the surrounding villages for post-run refreshments or longer stays.