9k Run Fen Drayton: Scenic Loop Around Fen Drayton Lakes

Route Overview & Local Insights

Enjoy a tranquil 8.9km loop around the stunning Fen Drayton Lakes, a premier wetland reserve in South Cambridgeshire. This route is exceptionally flat with 0m of total ascent, making it an ideal choice for runners looking to maintain a steady tempo or those seeking a peaceful recovery run. Starting from Constable's Rood, you’ll navigate a mix of well-maintained gravel paths and paved sections that wind between vast shimmering lakes and reed beds. The terrain is forgiving and fast, offering wide-open skies and refreshing breezes that are perfect for clearing your head while clocking up the mileage.

Fen Drayton Lakes is a landscape transformed, having evolved from a complex of former gravel workings into a vital RSPB nature reserve. Located between the villages of Swavesey and Fen Drayton, the area is steeped in the history of the Great Ouse floodplain. As you run, keep an eye out for an incredible array of birdlife, from swooping terns in the summer to massive flocks of ducks and geese in the winter. The reserve is a cornerstone of the Cambridgeshire countryside, offering a unique intersection where industrial heritage meets dedicated conservation, providing runners with a serene backdrop that changes beautifully with every season.