The best running trails around Old Windsor

Old Windsor offers a diverse selection of over 25 dedicated running routes. These range from easy riverside paths to more challenging loops within Windsor Great Park, catering to various fitness levels and preferences.

The running trails around Old Windsor feature a varied terrain. You'll find everything from mostly paved avenues like The Long Walk within Windsor Great Park to natural trails, charming riverside towpaths along the River Thames, and gentle hills. This variety ensures options for different running styles and experiences.

Yes, Old Windsor has 5 routes specifically classified as easy, making them ideal for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed run. These often include flatter sections along the River Thames or less strenuous paths within the parkland.

Absolutely. Many of the most popular running routes in Old Windsor are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Deer Park, Windsor Great Park – The Long Walk loop or the Virginia Water Ruins – Wick Pond loop, offering scenic journeys without retracing your steps.

Old Windsor's routes are rich with historical and natural landmarks. You can run with views of the iconic Windsor Castle, pass by the impressive Copper Horse statue on Snow Hill, or explore the historical ruins from Leptis Magna near Virginia Water. The Magna Carta Memorial is also accessible on some routes, such as the Site of Magna Carta – Runnymede Shared Cycle Path loop.

Many of the trails, particularly those with gentler gradients and paved sections, are suitable for families. The expansive green spaces of Windsor Great Park and the relatively flat Thames Path offer safe and enjoyable environments for family runs or walks, often with plenty of space for children to explore.

Yes, many areas around Old Windsor, especially within Windsor Great Park and along the River Thames paths, are dog-friendly. It's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead in certain areas, particularly where deer roam, such as in the Deer Park section of Windsor Great Park, to protect wildlife.

While Old Windsor itself doesn't have a train station, you can reach the area via public transport by taking a train to Windsor & Eton Riverside or Windsor & Eton Central stations. From there, local bus services or a short taxi ride can connect you to various starting points for the running routes, especially those around Windsor Great Park or the Thames Path.

Yes, parking is generally available near many of the popular running routes, particularly around Windsor Great Park and other key access points. Specific car parks are often signposted, but it's always a good idea to check local parking information before your visit, especially during peak times.

Yes, the area around Virginia Water Lake within Windsor Great Park features the picturesque The Cascade Waterfall. The Virginia Water Ruins – Wick Pond loop is an excellent route to explore this area and its diverse flora.

The running routes in Old Windsor are highly rated by the komoot community, with an impressive average score of 4.75 stars from over 5 reviews. Runners frequently praise the beautiful scenery, the variety of terrain, and the opportunity to combine exercise with historical sightseeing, particularly enjoying the expansive views and well-maintained paths.

Old Windsor offers great running opportunities year-round. In spring and summer, the parks are vibrant, but paths can be busy. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter runs can be crisp and quiet, though some natural trails might be muddy after rain. Always check local weather and trail conditions, especially for off-road sections.

Absolutely. Old Windsor is steeped in history. Many running routes offer direct views of Windsor Castle, especially along The Long Walk. You can also run past the Magna Carta Memorial or explore the historical ruins near Virginia Water, making your run a journey through time.