. The 10K route takes entrants on three fast laps through the zoo’s flat parkland, with the exotic menagerie of the zoo’s collection keeping runners entertained as they tour the park. All profits from the event are donated to the Zoological Society

Great Manchester Run 10KWhere? Manchester When? MayThe Bupa Great Manchester Run 10K makes for a great introduction to racing. Not only is the organisation as slick as you'd expect from a Great Run event, but the course is a beginner's dream -  flat

The Beginner and PB categories in this section have been put together using a slightly altered system to the other categories. While we still only used races that notched up 25 ratings or more, we tweaked the final selection to ensure that we

1. Mull of Kintyre Half-MarathonArgyll and Bute, May 30 This race makes it into the beginner category for much the same reasons as it made it into atmosphere and half-marathon top 10 – it’s just a race that’s really good fun to run, the vibe

also to Wrecsam Triathlon Club for organising such a brilliant event. The marshalling, aid stations, policing and support on the course was fantastic and they should be congratulated on a great event. Nice race memento of a fluffy black towel - very

into Strickland Country Fair. Although some of the sandy tracks and slight undulations may seem more challenging than a typical beginner's race, the friendly marshals and stunning coastal scenery are more than ample rewards. Once you finish the race, it's time

. We've divided the top-rated races into the following categories: 10K; half-marathon; marathon; and other distances. Check out this page every day this week for a new countdown - and visit the site on Friday for a round-up of the best events judged

1. Southport MAD DOG Seaside 10K, MerseysideDate in 2012: February 12This year’s 10K top dog, a flat race taking in town, country and seaside scenery, also comes highly recommended for beginners. With chip timing, a medal, a techical tee memento (in

to its detailsAnd on our wishlistRate foreign races (high time we listed key overseas events)Search by rating (eg show the most beginner-friendly races in the North)And a few secret things...

? Whizzing round two laps of the home of British motor racing are a wizard way to pass a spring evening, and while Murray Walker may not be on hand to cheer you round the chicanes, beginners could hardly hope for a flatter track, and for F1 fans