9 of the UK's best running tracks
The UK has around 360 athletics tracks. These range from state-of-the-art, Lottery-funded stadiums, to free-to-use cinder tracks. Most are 400m in circumference, as per the Olympic standard, but other distances can be found – including 200m, 300m and even, in the case of Regent’s Parks iconic oval, 386.8m. They all have their own unique charm. Trying to find a running track near you can be fiddly, though, so to help we’ve rounded up 9 of the best ones from across the UK.
Nethercraigs Running Track, Glasgow
This track gains points for its accessibility: it’s open seven days a week and access is on a pay-as-you-go basis. So if you’re new to track running, it’s the perfect place to earn your stripes (or should that be spikes?)
Find it: 355 Corkerhill Rd, G52 1TQ
Saughton Sports Complex, Edinburgh
If you’re looking for a track in more tranquil surroundings, this 6-lane Edinburgh option scores highly. It’s surrounded by parks and greenery. Its opening hours are excellent, too: 9am-10pm during the week; 8:30am-6pm on weekends.
Find it: Stevenson Dr, EH11 3HB
Paddington Recreation Ground, London
This west London jewel is popular with a variety of running clubs, including Serpentine and Track Mafia. And for good reason: a beneficiary of London 2012’s legacy, its facilities are top of the range, while its leafy location in Maida Vale Park gives it a sense of privacy and calm.
Find it: Randolph Avenue, Maida Vale W9 1PD
Ladywell Arena, London
The training ground of Kent AC, home to Olympic triathlon champ Alex Yee, this well maintained oval in south-east London is an under-the-radar gem. Housed in Ladywell Fields, it’s away from the hustle and bustle, and open 7am-10pm weekdays, and 7am-6pm weekends.
Find it: Silvermere Road, Catford, Lewisham SE6 4QX
Mary Peters Track, Belfast
There are currently nine clubs that call this fabulous track home, so you’re bound to find someone to train with here. There are eight lanes and while everyone is welcome, it’s probably best to book in advance (email info@marypeterstack.com).
Find it: Upper Malone Road, Belfast BT9 5PR
National Indoor Athletics Centre, Cardiff
This 200m banked track is as state-of-the-art as it gets. In addition, there’s a nine-line 60m sprint track and facilities for long jump, pole vault, and more.
Find it: Cyncoed Campus, Cyncoed Road, CF23 6XD
Manchester Regional Arena, Manchester
An eight-lane 400m track with serious pedigree: there’s seating enough for 6,500 spectators. Several running clubs use the track, including the Manchester Harries, who train there on Mondays and Wednesdays and welcome new members of all abilities.
Find it: Rowsley St, M11 3FF
John Charles Centre for Sport, Leeds
The best way of getting access to this excellent track is by heading down to a Leeds City athletics club training session: the club meets there every Tuesday and Thursday from 5:30-8:30pm, and welcomes runners of all abilities.
Find it: LS11 5DJ
Parliament Hill Fields Athletics Track, London
Home to the amazing Night of the 10,000m PBs and Highgate Harriers, this track is located at the base of Parliament Hill, frequent home to the English National Cross-Country Championships. Best of all, you don’t have to book – just turn up on the day. But remember: you have to pay in cash (adults £4.80, concessions £2.90).
Find it: NW3 2JP
You Might Also Like
