The United Kingdom is home to some absolutely stunning scenery, and every year there are many races that take place in some of the most beautiful parts of the country. Below we are going to take a look at some of the most scenic races in Britain, and if you like to run yourself, we highly recommend that you consider entering one or two of them yourself.
Snowdonia Marathon - Gwynedd, Wales, October
The Snowdonia Marathon is a race that will lead you on a very demanding scenic route around Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales. While you are running you will be treated to panoramic views of the valley, and running across the Pass of Llanberis is a great experience as you will be able to see the stunning landscape in all directions. As the race is run in October you might have to put up with some bad weather, but whatever the weather conditions are, you should keep your head up so that you can experience all the glorious scenery around you.
Rhayder 'Round the Lakes' 20 - Powys, Wales, March
This 20-mile road race is run in March, which is a perfect time of the year to go running in our opinion. However, this is not the only thing that has been attracting runners from all across the United Kingdom for the last 25 years. The pine-covered forests, calm lake, and stunning views make this race a thing of beauty. Elan Valley has many contours which means that it is not the easiest of races out there, but there are plenty of dramatic crests to ensure that you are rewarded for your efforts by some stunning rural scenery.
Lomas Distribution Buxton Half-Marathon - Derbyshire, England, June
This is a taxing road race in the Peak District - there is no let-up as participants have to run a course that has very few flat parts. However, that hard work that you put in on the hills is worth it when you see the scenery that is on offer. If the amazing views on offer are not enough motivation for you to put on your trainers and head to Buxton, then maybe the warm welcome and support from the locals will persuade you to do so - they surround the race course and cheer all the participants on.
North Downs 30k - Kent, England, June
This race was first staged back in 1984, and it is now one of Kent’s most popular races, and for good reason too - this course takes participants through some of the most beautiful scenery in this part of England. You will run through fields, woods, and parkland and see an array of majestic summer colours. To add to this, you will run through quaint hamlets before experiencing a staggering view of the Thames in the distance. To add to this, the race organisers put on a free massage before and after the race as well as fruit, cakes, and water.
Baxters Loch Ness Marathon - Highland, Scotland, October
When you run this race, you will be able to experience a variety of towns and rural scenery from the heart of Inverness to the Highlands’ wilds. The race will take you through majestic mountain scenery before taking you down to the shores of the famous Loch Ness, and you will end the race in Inverness Queens Park Stadium. You will also get to experience famous Scottish hospitality as there is a pasta party before the race, live traditional music, as well as plenty of activities for children to enjoy. As it takes place in Scotland in October, you should prepare yourself for a bit of bad weather if you are participating. Would it be a real trip to Scotland if you did not get cold and wet at one point anyway?
Source: https://www.runnersworld.com/uk/events/a764961/readers-top-10-uk-races-scenery1/