“Heartwood Forest Parkrun is a fantastically organised run with a route that provides challenge, beauty and speed.”

I was in two minds when it came to blogging about Heartwood Forest parkrun; it’s one of the most picturesque I’ve done so deserves some space and yet in just a few weeks time will no longer be a venue. I made the effort to go along after hearing the news that this week would be it’s first and only birthday and was not disappointed. Sweeping hills, a majestic meander through a fledgling forest and a great atmosphere have really set this run out.

Located a few miles from St Albans, Heartwood Forest is a two lap course that takes in parkland and a young forest. Ran mainly on compressed earth and gravel the surface is firm unless wet when I’m told it’s harrowing, verging on the deadly!

The route was initially congested, with around 200 runners in (but it was a birthday!), however this quickly thinned out and there was lots of opportunity to overtake. Buggy running would be a joy on this course, as is any kind of running.

Heartwood Forest Parkrun is a fantastically organised run with a route that provides challenge, beauty and speed. It’s a shame this venue is being consigned to history, but I feel very lucky to have had the chance to enjoy all that is has to offer.

Facilities wise: parking is not great – you’ll need to walk in probably a km or so; toilets about 100m from the start; fun walks for children; and food/drinks are available from the cafe in the nearby village afterwards.

Find out more about Heartwood Forest at parkrun.org.uk

Personal Stats

PB – 24:47
Best Position – 51st
Times run – 1