Ditch the snacks and lace up your running shoes! Every year in the Cotswolds, we have some fabulously exciting runs and races – from fun runs to gruelling obstacle courses, there’s something for the runners and those looking for a health kick in the form of a challenge.

Check out our list of 10 runs and races in the Cotswolds in 2025

∙ The Great 10k Bristol Run ∙ 11 May, Bristol ∙ Experience Bristol’s iconic landmarks on a closed-road 10k course.

∙ Tewkesbury 10k Half Marathon ∙ 11 May, Tewkesbury ∙ A 10k race for ages 17+, starting at Tewkesbury Leisure Centre.

∙ Race for Life 10k ∙ 1 June, Gloucester ∙ Join a 10k run to support Cancer Research UK.

∙ Blenheim Palace Triathlon ∙ 7-8 June, Woodstock ∙ Triathlon options include sprint, super-sprint, and team relays.

∙ Cheltenham Running Festival ∙ 8 June, Cheltenham Racecourse ∙ Choose from 5k, 10k, or half-marathon distances, supporting Winston’s Wish Charity.

∙ Cirencester Park Summer Sizzler ∙ 11 June, Cirencester ∙ A chip-timed 10k through scenic Cirencester Park.

∙ Cotswold Way Challenge ∙ 21-22 June, Cirencester ∙ A 100k looped route through the Cotswolds, with shorter distance options available.

∙ Tough Mudder ∙ 16 August, Badminton ∙ A mud-filled obstacle course at the Badminton Horse Trials.

∙ Westonbirt Arboretum Half Marathon ∙ 7 September, Westonbirt ∙ A trail run on solid stone paths with 10k, 5k, and 1-mile options.

∙ Stroud Half Marathon ∙ 26 October, Stroud ∙ A challenging half-marathon marking its 43rd anniversary.

…or do a picture-perfect park run

Parkrun offers a fantastic, free, and accessible way to engage in community-based running across the globe, and the Cotswolds is no exception. This popular initiative hosts weekly, timed 5k runs in numerous picturesque parks and locations throughout the region, welcoming participants of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a complete beginner, parkrun provides a supportive and encouraging environment to enjoy the beautiful Cotswold scenery while improving your fitness. From the rolling hills to the charming parklands, these events offer a unique opportunity to explore the area’s natural beauty and connect with the local community, making it a perfect addition to a healthy lifestyle in the Cotswolds. Check out parkrun.org.uk to find your nearest run in the Cotswolds.