Facilities

This is a rural parkrun and is only really accessible by private transport. Biking may not be the best option as the entrance to the park is on a busy road. There is ample parking available, which must be paid for, though I beleive parkrunners can get a reduced rate. There are toilets availble close to the start line.

Course

The course goes through the forest park in a figure of eight shape. The path is almost entirely tightly packed gravel, but watch your step as the path has slightly eroded in places and mud can develop. There are a lot of twists and turns on the course but these are signposted and marshalled. There are distance markers along the route also. The course is mostly flat, with a few small inclines over some bridges. The park surroundings are really beautiful, being made up of mature woodland mostly. I imagine this place will offer some spectacular sights once Autumn sets in. Then of course there is the lake as well, with some nice views out to the castle.

Coffee

There is a centre next to the finish line which hosts a cafe with all sorts of foods and drinks for hungry and thirsty parkrunners after the run.

X Factor

Other than the extreme beauty of this place, I was reminded here once again of the great work that the parkrun volunteers do. Once I had finished my coffee, I walked out of the cafe and looked to the finish line to see that the volunteers were all busy at work cleaning up and organising after the run. Their dedication is an inspiration.