6k Run Charnwood: Scenic Loop Through The Outwoods

Route Overview & Local Insights

Experience the rugged charm of Charnwood on this 5.5km loop that perfectly balances accessible paved paths with the wilder, undulating terrain of Leicestershire’s oldest woodland. Starting near the Holywell Football Pitch, you’ll head toward Jubilee Wood before tackling an anti-clockwise circuit of The Outwoods. With 86m of ascent, expect a moderately hilly workout that keeps your heart rate elevated, especially through the woodland trails where ancient oaks and granite outcrops frame the path. It is a fantastic mid-distance choice for runners looking to transition from flat pavement to more organic, rolling forest floor without committing to a full-scale trail expedition.

The Outwoods is a site of significant geological and historical importance, spanning 110 acres of the Charnwood Forest. As you run, you are traversing some of the oldest rocks in Europe, dating back to the Precambrian era over 600 million years ago. This area was gifted to the folk of Loughborough in the 1940s to ensure it remained a sanctuary for nature and recreation. Keep an eye out for the bluebells in spring or the vibrant fungi in autumn, as this ancient woodland provides a shifting seasonal backdrop that makes every run here feel unique. It’s a local favorite for its "Skylark" views overlooking the Soar Valley and the distinctive craggy landscape that defines this corner of England.