5k Run Mendip: Picturesque Loop through Bishop's Park

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 4.8km out-and-back route offers a refreshingly flat and accessible escape through the heart of Mendip’s lush landscapes. Starting at the iconic Bishop's Palace Moat, the course maintains a steady profile with zero ascent, making it an ideal choice for recovery runs, speed repeats on the paved sections, or a peaceful morning jog. You’ll navigate a pleasant mix of 60% paved surfaces and well-maintained footpaths, following a segment of the historic Monarch’s Way out toward Durston Road. The terrain is remarkably gentle, allowing you to find a consistent rhythm while soaking in the greenery that characterizes this corner of Somerset.

Running this path feels like moving through a living history book. The Bishop's Palace in Wells has been the home of the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years, and its moat is famous for the resident swans that have been trained to ring a bell for food since the 1870s. As you transition onto the Monarch’s Way, you are retracing the legendary escape route used by King Charles II in 1651 after his defeat at the Battle of Worcester. This blend of ecclesiastical grandeur and royal heritage provides a stunning backdrop that makes every kilometer of this Mendip run feel purposeful and steeped in local lore.