The best running trails around Ottery St Mary
4.3
(20)
649
runners
58
runs
Jogging around Ottery St Mary offers varied terrain within the East Devon National Landscape. The region features the tranquil River Otter, providing flat riverside paths, alongside rolling hills and dense woodlands. These natural features create a diverse environment for runners, from gentle routes to more challenging ascents. The landscape is characterized by its green banks, countryside vistas, and a network of well-maintained trails.
Best jogging routes around Ottery St Mary
- The most popular jogging route is View of Sidmouth and High Peak – Fields Way loop from White Cross Car Park, a 13.9 miles (22.3 km) difficult trail that takes about 2 hours 38 minutes to complete. This route offers significant elevation gain and panoramic views.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Redbridge Over the River Otter – Harpford Woods loop from Newton Poppleford and Harpford, a moderate 5.7 miles (9.2 km) path. This route winds through Harpford Woods and along the River Otter, offering a mix of woodland and riverside scenery.
- Local runners also love the Head Weir – River Otter at Ottery St Mary loop from Ottery St. Mary, a 8.3 miles (13.4 km) trail leading through the scenic Otter Valley, often completed in about 1 hour 27 minutes.
- Jogging around Ottery St Mary is defined by the serene River Otter, expansive East Devon National Landscape, and varied woodlands. The network of routes offers options for different ability levels, from leisurely riverside runs to more demanding trails through rolling hills.
- The routes in Ottery St Mary are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 600 runners have used komoot to explore Ottery St Mary's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
5.0
(2)
83
runners
22.3km
02:39
590m
590m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
56
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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46
runners
9.16km
01:01
40m
40m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
23
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
22
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Ottery St Mary
Tips from the Community
park in the layby at the top of Four Elms hill. Lovely shady walk
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Breath taking views. I'm going to miss this place so much
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There is a saying... What goes up must come down. Do this section, and you'll figure it out quickly. 😂
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The historic Alma bridge, built over 100 years ago, was damaged in severe flooding and rendered unsafe for use long term. The bridge provides access to the seafront over the River Sid and acts as a gateway to the South West Coast Path. A large project was undertaken to replace it - the new bridge was moved 40 metres inland and a nautical, contemporary design was selected. The project also undertook extensive cliff reprofiling and stabilisation work. Despite COVID restrictions hampering the project, the bridge was opened at the end of 2020. The structure was clad in our Purbeck Royal Blue stone to match the existing walling and, more fittingly, it's one of the limestone beds found on the Jurassic Coast. We supplied approx. 60 tonne of Purbeck Stone which is ideal for this type of applictaion; it's hardwearing and durable, even against some of the harshest environmental elements. Purbeck Royal Blue is a stunning natural building stone with a rich blue heart and brown border which offers a fabulous depth of colour and a lot of character, suitable for new-builds and restoration schemes alike and has been used extensively throughout the UK.
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Cliffs flank either side of Sidmouth Esplanade, where people have walked since the 18th century. Until then, Sidmouth was a quiet fishing village, but the fashionable thirst for fresh sea air saw people flock to take in the restorative climate. Notable visitors include Jane Austen. The York Hotel, on the east side of the Esplanade, was Sidmouth's first purpose-built hotel and regency buildings can be seen all along the sea front.
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Sidmouth lifeboat is a fully self-funded independent lifeboat in East Devon, covering an area of approximately 150 square miles of sea between Axmouth and Budleigh Salterton. It is not part of, or funded by the RNLI, although it has close links with them. It has a volunteer crew that are on service 24 hours a day, 365 days per year. It has two boats: an Arctic 24 self-righting Rigid Inflatable Inshore lifeboat and a smaller Sidmouth 2 boat. It also provides lifeguard services and sea safety education to the local community.
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This beautiful place has been ruined by euroforest tree felling and not clearing up after the utter devastation they've caused. The personal responsible for the mess should be strung up in this forest for all to see
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Superb walking on the Jurassic coast with outstanding views good walking shoes recommended as well as a hat to protect from the wind sun factor which can still burn even on an overcast day.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Ottery St Mary?
There are over 50 dedicated running routes around Ottery St Mary, offering a wide variety of terrain and distances. These include easy riverside paths, moderate trails through woodlands, and more challenging routes with significant elevation changes.
Are there easy or beginner-friendly jogging routes in the area?
Yes, Ottery St Mary offers several easy jogging routes. The paths along the River Otter are generally flat and accessible, perfect for a leisurely run or a brisk jog. You can find 6 easy routes on komoot, with many moderate options also suitable for those building endurance.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the running trails around Ottery St Mary?
The running trails in Ottery St Mary offer diverse and picturesque scenery. You'll find tranquil riverside paths along the River Otter, lush green banks, rolling hills, and dense woodlands within the East Devon National Landscape. Many routes provide stunning countryside vistas and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Are there any circular running routes in Ottery St Mary?
Yes, many of the running routes around Ottery St Mary are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Head Weir – River Otter at Ottery St Mary loop from Ottery St. Mary is a popular moderate option that takes you through the scenic Otter Valley.
Can I bring my dog on the running trails in Ottery St Mary?
Many trails in the Ottery St Mary area are dog-friendly, especially those through woodlands and along the River Otter. It's always recommended to keep dogs under control, particularly near livestock or in nature reserves like the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve, and to check local signage for specific restrictions.
What are some interesting landmarks or points of interest I might see while running?
While jogging, you might encounter the medieval Tumbling Weir along the River Otter. Further afield, the routes can lead you towards the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve, known for birdwatching, or even offer views towards the Ladram Bay Sea Stacks and Jacob's Ladder Beach on the Jurassic Coast.
Are there any challenging running routes for experienced runners?
Absolutely. For those seeking a more rigorous run, Ottery St Mary offers several difficult routes with significant elevation gain. The View of Sidmouth and High Peak – Fields Way loop from White Cross Car Park is a challenging 22.3 km trail with panoramic views, perfect for experienced runners.
What do other runners say about the trails in Ottery St Mary?
The running routes in Ottery St Mary are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 10 reviews. Over 600 runners have explored the area, often praising the varied terrain, scenic riverside paths, and quiet woodlands.
Can I find routes that combine woodland and riverside running?
Yes, many routes in Ottery St Mary offer a fantastic mix of woodland and riverside scenery. The Redbridge Over the River Otter – Harpford Woods loop from Newton Poppleford and Harpford is a moderate option that winds through Harpford Woods and along the River Otter, providing a diverse running experience.
Are there any long-distance trails that pass through Ottery St Mary?
Yes, the Coleridge Way, a 36-mile long-distance trail, passes through the beautiful East Devon countryside around Ottery St Mary. Sections of this trail are suitable for longer, scenic runs, offering a great option for those looking to cover more ground.
What are the options for parking near the running trails?
Parking is generally available at various starting points for trails around Ottery St Mary. For instance, the challenging View of Sidmouth and High Peak – Fields Way loop starts from White Cross Car Park, indicating dedicated parking facilities for trail users.
Are there any family-friendly running options in Ottery St Mary?
For families, the flatter, more accessible paths along the River Otter are ideal for a gentle run or walk. Nearby attractions like Escot Park also offer beautiful grounds that can be enjoyed as part of a family outing, potentially combining a short run with other activities.
Most popular routes around Ottery St Mary
Most popular attractions around Ottery St Mary
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