7k Run Newark: Explore Besthorpe Nature Reserve Loop

Route Overview & Local Insights

Exploring the Besthorpe Nature Reserve loop offers a flat, refreshing 6.8km escape through the lush wetlands of the Trent Valley. Starting from the nearby village of Collingham, runners will find a mix of surfaces featuring approximately 70% paved paths, making it a high-speed option for those looking to maintain a steady tempo without the challenge of elevation. The route circumnavigates the reserve's restored gravel pits, providing wide-open views and a serene, "tropical" atmosphere due to the dense reeds and vibrant birdlife. With 0m of ascent, this is an ideal course for recovery runs, interval training, or a scenic easy mile where the only thing shifting your pace will be the occasional breeze off the water.

Steeped in local conservation history, the Besthorpe Nature Reserve is a jewel of the Newark and Sherwood district, managed by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust. Once a busy site for sand and gravel extraction, the area has been reclaimed by nature, transforming into a vital habitat for dragonflies and migratory birds like the Little Egret. Running here feels like stepping back into a wilder version of Middle England; the proximity to the River Trent adds a sense of historical significance, as this waterway has shaped the local trade and landscape for centuries. It is a favorite spot for Newark locals who want to trade the pavement of the market town for the tranquility of the marshlands.