paths and often have roots, rocks, stream crossings and steep pitches. England and Wales together have 4,000km of designated National Trails, which link together footpaths, bridleways and some minor roads. Visit the website (nationaltrail

to the chalky cliffs of the South Downs. Enter online now.2. PUMA Derwentwater Trail Race 14KKeswick, Cumbria, September 5  Set within the Lake District National Park, this race is a must for trail addicts and recreational runners alike, taking place along

event, the following week sees the Akamas Trail Marathon and Half-Marathon. These start at the pretty Bay of St George, right on the edge of the Akamas National Park, and run immediately onto the coast trail before rising high up into the Akamas

If you ran a Trailblazer race last year, you'll already know what knockout events they are. If you didn't, read on.Trailblazer, sponsored by Saucony, is a firm and fast 10K trail run set in stunning woodland. There are three locations to choose from

for the reward at the finish - a treat from local cake bakers Honeybuns.Wellingborough 5 (Northamptonshire, August 3) Take advantage of the flat first miles - this road route through country lanes has PB potential in spades.--National Highlights

The Beast 5 (Leicestershire, September 19) With 33 obstacles usually designed for horses, this is a trail race with a difference. Canter along one five-mile lap or push yourself to a double ten mile challenge as you clamber and climb over high

bit (or trying to) for the second half. It was brilliant being able to run with a pacer, though the sheer volume of bodies made it hard to stay in step with the group and I was generally either in front or trailing, just through lack of space. In fact

out midweek to tour the beautiful National Trust landscapes around stunning Alderley Edge on well-maintained trails and lanes.Join a small and friendly field for this one-lap course, packed with fun for trail runners hungry for tracks, trails and lanes

runners from around Europe will be making the trip across the Channel for this seafront event.National HighlightsGreat Eastern Run (Peterborough, October 15) Among the bumper crop of 13.1-milers on October's race calendar, one of the most high

?Cyprus has a glittering history as a running venue. Not many locations can boast three and a half thousand years of sporting prowess. More recently, the island turned into a giant training camp when several national teams set up home here in the run