6k Run Cotgrave: Picturesque Route through Country Park

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 6.0km loop offers a fantastic blend of Waterside cruising and woodland trails, making it a favorite for Nottinghamshire runners looking for a scenic, flat, and fast session. Starting from the dedicated car park, you'll head out onto the historic Grantham Canal towpath for a smooth, paved stretch that allows you to easily find your rhythm. With only 21m of total ascent, this route is classified as flat, featuring well-maintained gravel and paved paths through Cotgrave Country Park that remain reliable even after a typical British rain shower. It’s an ideal choice for a tempo run or a relaxed recovery jog where you can appreciate the change from canal-side views to the lush, green canopy of the park's interior.

The area carries a rich industrial heritage, once serving as the site of the Cotgrave Colliery. Since the mine's closure in the early 90s, the land has been spectacularly reclaimed by nature, transforming into a diverse haven for wildlife including skylarks and water voles. Running through the park today, it is hard to imagine the heavy industry that once dominated the landscape. This particular route also connects runners to the local history of the Grantham Canal, which dates back to the late 18th century. After finishing your loop, you are just a short distance from the heart of Cotgrave village, where you can find local amenities to refuel after your 6km effort.