The best running trails around Ardingly

Ardingly offers a good selection of running routes, with over 20 trails available for you to explore. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy village loops to more challenging trails through woodlands and along the reservoir.

Yes, Ardingly has several easy running routes perfect for beginners. For example, the St Peter’s Church loop from Ardingly is an easy 4 km (2.5 miles) trail that takes about 27 minutes to complete, leading through pleasant village surroundings.

While many routes are moderate, there are some more challenging options available. Ardingly is nestled within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which features rolling hills and ancient woodlands, providing opportunities for more strenuous runs. Komoot lists 4 routes as difficult.

Many paths around Ardingly, especially those near the reservoir and through the village, are suitable for families. The diverse landscape offers a mix of easy, relatively flat sections and more varied terrain, allowing families to choose routes that match their comfort and ability levels. The Ardingly Reservoir area, with its activity centre, is a popular spot for family outings.

Generally, dogs are welcome on many of the public footpaths and bridleways around Ardingly, including those around the reservoir. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature reserves like the Loder Valley, which is important for birdwatching. Please check specific signage for any restrictions.

Jogging in Ardingly offers diverse and picturesque scenery. You can expect verdant forests, open fields, and serene waterways, particularly around the Ardingly Reservoir. The area is within the High Weald AONB, providing rolling hills and ancient woodlands with oak, ash, and beech trees. Many routes also feature quiet country lanes and natural paths.

Yes, several notable landmarks enhance the running experience in Ardingly. The striking Ouse Valley Viaduct is incorporated into popular routes. You might also pass by the expansive grounds of Wakehurst Place, managed by Kew Gardens, or enjoy views of the Ardingly Reservoir itself, which is a Local Nature Reserve. The Wakehurst Mansion and Gardens are also nearby.

Yes, many of the running routes in Ardingly are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For instance, the popular Ardingly Activity Centre – Ardingly Reservoir loop is a circular trail, as is the Ardingly Village – View of Horsted Keynes loop.

Parking is available at several locations, particularly around the Ardingly Reservoir. The Ardingly Reservoir Car Park is a common starting point for many routes, including those leading to the Ouse Valley Viaduct. Always check for any parking fees or restrictions upon arrival.

While Ardingly is primarily accessed by car, local bus services connect it to nearby towns like Haywards Heath, which has a train station. From Haywards Heath, you can take a bus towards Ardingly. It's advisable to check current bus schedules and routes to plan your journey to the trailheads effectively.

The running routes in Ardingly are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 6 reviews. More than 260 runners have used komoot to explore Ardingly's varied terrain, often praising the beautiful reservoir views, ancient woodlands, and the mix of quiet country lanes and natural paths.

Yes, if you're looking for a shorter run, the St Peter’s Church loop from Ardingly is an excellent option. It's a 4 km (2.5 miles) trail, making it ideal for a quick jog or a beginner-friendly outing.

During winter, the trails in Ardingly can become muddy, especially after rain, due to the natural paths and woodland sections. While the scenery remains beautiful, it's recommended to wear appropriate footwear with good grip. Some paths, particularly those along country lanes, may be less affected by mud.

While specific cafes directly on every trail might be limited, Ardingly village itself offers pubs and cafes where you can refuel before or after your run. The Ardingly Activity Centre near the reservoir may also have refreshment options. Planning your route to pass through the village or near these facilities is a good idea.