10k Run St Mary's: Scenic Loop through Clatto and Camperdown Parks

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 9.6km loop offers a refreshing escape through some of Dundee’s finest green lungs, perfect for runners looking for a blend of asphalt and soft woodland trails. Starting at the serene Clatto Reservoir, the route takes you on a moderately hilly journey through the dense canopies of Templeton Woods before entering the expansive grounds of Camperdown Country Park. With an ascent of 134m, you'll encounter steady climbs that provide a great cardiovascular workout without being overly technical. Expect a varied underfoot experience where roughly a quarter of the path is paved, making it an ideal choice for a trail-road hybrid shoe during damp Scottish mornings.

Rich in local heritage, the area around St Mary’s and Camperdown is steeped in history; the park itself is named after the 1797 Battle of Camperdown and serves as the former estate of the Earls of Camperdown. As you run past the neo-classical Camperdown House, you are traversing land that has been a community staple for generations. Templeton Woods, which you’ll navigate mid-run, is a known sanctuary for the rare red squirrel, so keep your eyes peeled during your recovery stretches. This route doesn't just offer a solid 10k-adjacent distance; it provides a narrative tour of Dundee’s natural reforestation efforts and aristocratic past.