Chopwell Woods Christmas Trail Run, 21st December 2025

A report from Lynne running merrily on high:

“I had never done this run before, and the other Green Goddess and I were thinking that this after the Ronnie Walker race at Saltwell Park the day before was quite a lot! Anyway, we decided to go for it and opted for the shorter distance of 4 miles instead of 8.

We arrived to find the car park full of other elves, Santa’s, reindeer, with a tarzan and a mermaid in the mix as well. Numbers collected we watched the start and finish of the children’s race which was a mile. Their reward was a selection box and a Christmas tree decoration in the shape of a deer.

Then it was our turn – after Saturday’s efforts at the Ronnie Walker we decided it would be a recovery run and a gentle trot round Chopwell Woods taking in the atmosphere and the huge array of costumes on show. Conditions were great underfoot although we were glad we had opted for trail shoes. There seemed to be a lot of downhill to begin with so it was no surprise that the 2nd part of the run was mainly up, but after the hills on Saturday it was fine.

The marshals were fantastic and the variety of their costumes and music was amazing. A nice downhill section at the end as we trotted in. We too were rewarded with a Christmas tree decoration in the shape of a deer, plus a choice of a buff or socks, mince pies and sweets. A really enjoyable morning and very well organised by Wild Deer – no wonder it sells out. Definitely a favourite! 

Merry Christmas and all the best for the New Year. Here’s to lots more running and race reports!”