Road or trail, moorland or coast, Devon has it all. Here are 10 of the best of the best runs that South Devon has to offer . . . in our opinion.
1. Hameldown Hammer
Where and when? Widecombe in the Moor – February
Is there a medal? Yes
Find out more: http://www.puretrail.uk/hameldown/
Not for the fainthearted! This is a tough trail race with 600 metres of ascent run across open moorland. You are rewarded with some amazing views.
The shorter version, the Hambledon 7 (or long 10k), has just 300 metres of ascent and does a double ascent of the Hambledown Ridge.
Hameldown Hammer
2. Plymouth Half Marathon
Where and when? Plymouth Hoe – May
Is there a medal? Yes
Find out more: http://www.runplymouth.co.uk/britainsoceancityhalf/
Britain’s Ocean City Half Marathon. This 13.1 mile race takes in some stunning coastal scenery and includes the National Trust grounds at Saltram House and Plymouth’s historic Barbican and Hoe.
Plymouth Hoe
There is also a Plymouth 10k in October
3. Ivybridge 10k
Where and when? Ivybridge – May
Is there a medal? Yes
Find out more: http://www.ermevalleyharriers.co.uk/
One for the speedsters as after the steep climb from Bittaford to Moorhaven most of the last 6k is downhill.
4. Torbay Half Marathon
Where and when? Paignton Green, Torbay – June
Is there a medal? Yes
Find out more: http://www.torbayhalfmarathon.co.uk/
Torbay Half Marathon
A popular, seaside road half marathon starting on Paignton Green and heading out to Torquay passing historic Torre Abbey and the Princess Gardens. All traffic free!
5. Dawlish Coastal Dash
Where and when? Dawlish – June
Is there a medal? No
A really different run along which takes in 4 miles of beach and coast path. A Fabulous, fun run for a summer evening.
6. Burrator 10k
Where and when? Burrator Discovery Centre – June
Is there a medal? Yes
Find out more: https://www.somethingwildevents.co.uk/burrator-10k/
Burrator 10k
Fast, flat and in stunning surroundings, this 10k race is nearly all on tarmac – perfect for a PB.
There is also a 2k and 1k for under 12’s.
7. Totnes 10k
Totnes 10k
Where and when? Totnes – August
Is there a medal? Yes
Find out more: https://www.teignbridgetrotters.co.uk/our-races/totnes-10k
One of the prettiest 10k runs in Devon begins in the park adjacent to Totnes Leisure Centre which has showers and changing facilities.
Mainly off road, the run goes through Dartington Woods, along the river and apart from a few small hills and steps, is mostly flat.
9. Cockington Christmas Caper
Where and when? Cockington Country Park, Torquay
Is there a medal? No
A long 10k trail run though woodland and farmland with great views, atmosphere and plenty of Christmas spirit. A great way to round off the racing year.
Runners Guide to Devon
