Looking for somewhere new to go for a run this summer? A route found in the Yorkshire Dales has been declared one of the most picturesque in the UK – can you guess where?
The 5k course at Fountains Abbey in Ripon was featured in a new running route guide by The Metro and was highlighted for views of “spectacular ruins” and most “magnificent” Georgian water gardens “ever created”.
The publisher commented on its selection: “If you’re a parkrun enthusiast looking for a new challenge, or you’ve been looking for an excuse to lace up your trainers and explore the great outdoors beyond your local park, you’ve come to the right place.
“The UK is home to some of the most picturesque parkrun locations that offer not only a great workout, but a feast for your eyes and senses.
@baetripper Discovering the history of Yorkshire's treasures has been a fun journey that has taken us to many abbey’s, but there's something truly enchanting about Fountains Abbey. Set against a vast landscape seamlessly connected to Studley Royal, this historic gem invites you to lose yourself in its magic for a day or two. #fountainsabbey #yorkshire #visitengland #traveltok #travelguide #uk ♬ original sound - Vara Pappas
“We’re talking serene lakesides, historic gardens, ancient forests, and royal estates.
“And, a lot of them are National Trust, so expect wonderfully maintained areas of beauty.
“We bet you’ll be reaching for your camera as much as your water bottle.
“So, run, jog, or walk to tick these picture-perfect trails off your bucket list with our ultimate list.”
Why is Fountains Abbey among UK’s most picturesque running routes?
The Metro revealed: “A Unesco World Heritage site, the spectacular ruins of Fountains Abbey and water mill date back to the 12th century and are truly something to marvel at.
“The nearby Jacobean mansion of Fountains Hall, the Victorian masterpiece St Mary’s Church, and one of the most magnificent Georgian water gardens ever created don’t make for bad viewing after you finish either.”
See the full Fountains Abbey running course here.
10 most picturesque running routes in the UK
- Fountains Abbey, Yorkshire
- Whinlatter Forest Park, Lake District
- Wimpole Estate, Cambridgeshire
- The Eden Project, Cornwall
- Sheringham, Norfolk
- Faskally Forest, Perthshire
- Lyme Park, Cheshire
- Bolberry Down, Devon
- Sandringham, Norfolk
- Dulwich Park, London
Someone who recently visited Fountains Abbey left this review on Tripadvisor: “A great way to spend an afternoon walking around the water gardens and the Abbey ruins.
“I have some issues walking so the mini bus services were a great way to explore the estate.
“We had a light lunch at the main centre and a cuppa at the mill cafe.. both very good.
Recommended reading:
- Pint by the river? 5 Yorkshire Dales pubs with outside spaces worth visiting
- Yorkshire Dales cycle route with 'spectacular' views among the UK's best
- Yorkshire Dales pub among UK’s best ‘worth travelling for’ is ‘one to savour’
“If you want to explore the Abbey download the audio app as it is excellent. Finally all the staff we spoke to were very helpful and a credit to the National Trust.”
Another added: “This is a must see place when visiting the Yorkshire area. The restaurant has great tasting scones. Great place to have a picnic and explore.”
You can find more about each picturesque running route in the UK on The Metro’s website.
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