6k Run North West Leicestershire: Scenic Queen Elizabeth Jubilee Wood

Route Overview & Local Insights

Starting from the charming village of Ravenstone, this 6.1km loop offers a tranquil escape into the heart of the National Forest. The terrain consists entirely of unpaved, natural paths, making it a perfect choice for trail runners looking for a soft-surface workout. With a negligible 11m of ascent, the route is impressively flat, allowing you to maintain a steady cadence as you circumnavigate the woodland. Expect well-maintained gravel tracks and grassy trails that wind through young plantations and open meadows, providing a refreshing change of pace from the asphalt roads of North West Leicestershire.

The Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Wood is a site of significant environmental heritage, planted back in 2012 to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Covering over 460 acres, this site was formerly an open-cast coal mine, now completely transformed into a biodiverse haven for local wildlife. As you run, keep an eye out for the "Lake of Lights" and the various sculptures scattered throughout the trees. This area is a local favorite for its peaceful atmosphere and the way it demonstrates the successful rewilding of England’s industrial landscape, offering a serene backdrop for every mile of your run.