Trail or Road? A Running Guide to South Devon

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.

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.

There is also a Plymouth 10k in October

3. Pennywell Pursuit

Where and when? Pennywell Farm, Buckfastleigh – May

Is there a medal? Yes, for the 10k and fun run

Find out more: https://www.thhn.co.uk/events-calendar/pennywell-pursuit-10k

Organised by the charity, Torbay Holiday Helpers Network, this trial 10k is tough, muddy and hilly but as it is all on private farm and woodland, it’s unique and picturesque.

There’s a great incentive to run this as there is a £1000 charity prize fund to be shared between the first male and female runners over the finish line, to donate to a charity of their choice.

There is also a 1 mile family fun run.

4. Ivybridge 10k

Where and when? Ivybridge – May

Is there a medal? Yes

Find out more: http://www.ermevalleyharriers.co.uk/?page_id=83

One for the speedsters as after the steep climb from Bittaford to Moorhaven most of the last 6k is downhill.

5. Torbay Half Marathon

Where and when? Paignton Green, Torbay – June

Is there a medal? Yes

Find out more: http://www.torbayhalfmarathon.co.uk/

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!

6. 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.

7. Burrator 10k

Where and when? Burrator Discovery Centre – June

Is there a medal? Yes

Find out more: https://www.somethingwildevents.co.uk/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.

8. 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. City to Sea Marathon and Ultra Marathon

Is there a medal? Yes (a huge one!)

Where and when? Exeter – September

Find out more: https://www.thhn.co.uk/city-to-sea-53-campaign

Starting in Exeter, this challenging run saves the steepest climb until the end which is at Babbacombe seafront. Both routes have riverside paths, country lanes, cliff top paths and beaches.

Organised by the charity, Torbay Holiday Helper’s Network (THHN)

10. 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.