The UK abounds with every variety of running trail, from mountain to beach to forest to fell. Here are a few selections, encompassing a range of terrains and regions. Choose your scenery and your challenge.
England

The Surrey Hills and North Downs Way

Short, steep climbs, excellent trails, country pubs. Both ends of this 24km route are easily accessible by train, just 45 minutes from central London.

Suffolk Coast Path

Mostly flat running, sand dunes, and beaches. 80km between Lowestoft and Felixstowe

High Peak Trail

Flat running on wide gravel paths with expansive views all around. 28km in the Peak District National Park

Jurassic Coast and the South West Coast Path

Ample ascents and descents, with equally ample opportunities for breaks back in civilization. This 153km route from Dorset through to East Devon traverses England’s first UNESCO designated natural World Heritage site. Choose any section of the trail for a day trip; average distance between major villages is about 19km. Or go for the whole route as a monstrous ultra-run.

Scotland

Isle of Arran and the Arran Coastal Way

Windblown beaches and seclusion, with rugged moorland to the north in contrast with lush moors to the south. 105km of trail passing 12 villages.

Ben Nevis Trail

A challenging 17km out-and-back trail to the top of Great Britain’s high point.1,349m elevation gain and loss. Expect snow and fog much of the year.

Ireland

Wicklow Way

This 127km route includes technical rocks, forests, boardwalks, and mountain high country, between Marlay Park in South Dublin and Clonegal, Co. Carlow. Choose any section or make it an epic.

Knockreer & Castlerosse in Killarney National Park

A 5K loop that passes parkland, shaded riverbanks, golf courses, and Victorian cottages. The park offers a great diversity of other trails across its 26,000 acres.

Wales

Bute Park

One of the finest parks for trail running in Wales’ capital city. Piece together your own loop, from a few kilometers to over 10km.

Volcano Trail, Coed y Brenin Forest

This 11km trail visits some of the highest, most remote sections of Snowdonia National Park, with dramatic views and changes in geology.