Ditch the snacks, lace up your running shoes and get ready to embrace the great outdoors. Every year, the Cotswolds plays host to a fantastic mix of runs and races, offering something for everyone, from relaxed fun runs and scenic 5ks to demanding half marathons and mud-soaked obstacle courses. Whether you’re a seasoned runner chasing a new personal best, a beginner looking for motivation, or simply someone in need of a healthy challenge, there’s no shortage of inspiring events to get involved in. With beautiful countryside views, supportive crowds and a strong sense of community, these races turn fitness into an adventure and make getting active feel genuinely rewarding.

Check out our list of 10 runs and races in the Cotswolds in 2026

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

∙ Tewkesbury 10k Half Marathon ∙ 12 April, Tewkesbury ∙ A 10k race for ages 17+, starting at Tewkesbury Leisure Centre.

∙ Race for Life 10k ∙ 31 May, Gloucester ∙ Join a 10k run to support Cancer Research UK.

∙ Blenheim Palace Triathlon ∙ 6-7 June, Woodstock ∙ Triathlon options include sprint, super-sprint, and team relays.

∙ Cheltenham Running Festival ∙ 14 June, Cheltenham Racecourse ∙ Choose from 5k, 10k, or half-marathon distances, supporting Winston’s Wish Charity.

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

∙ Cotswold Way Challenge ∙ 13-14 June, Cirencester ∙ A 100k looped route through the Cotswolds, with shorter distance options available.

∙ Tough Mudder ∙ 15 August, Badminton ∙ A mud-filled obstacle course at the Badminton Horse Trials.

∙ Westonbirt Arboretum Half Marathon ∙ 5-6 September, Westonbirt ∙ A trail run on solid stone paths with 10k, 5k, and 1-mile options.

∙ Stroud Half Marathon ∙ 25 October, Stroud ∙ A challenging half-marathon marking its 43rd anniversary.

…or do a picture-perfect park run

Parkrun provides a brilliant, free and welcoming way for people to enjoy community running, and the Cotswolds has plenty to offer. Taking place every week, these timed 5k events are held in some of the region’s most scenic parks and green spaces, and are open to all ages and abilities. Whether you’re an experienced runner, a casual jogger or trying it for the first time, parkrun offers a friendly, supportive atmosphere where everyone is encouraged to take part. It’s a simple and enjoyable way to stay active, explore the local landscape and feel part of a thriving community. Check out parkrun.org.uk to find your nearest run in the Cotswolds.