Top 5 Parkruns in Bournemouth & Poole

Parkruns are free, weekly 5k events that bring local communities together every Saturday morning.

Across Bournemouth and Poole, parkruns take place in parks, woodland and coastal landscapes, offering something for everyone, whether you prefer flat routes, trail paths or scenic challenges.

Here’s our guide to where each parkrun takes place, when it runs, what to expect, how to get there and where to find official details.

All parkruns are free to attend, but participants must register online once and bring their personal barcode to receive a recorded time. Whether you’re walking, running or volunteering, these parkruns offer a welcoming way to stay active and explore some of the most beautiful outdoor spaces in and around Bournemouth and Poole.

Bournemouth Parkrun

Where: Bournemouth Parkrun takes place in Kings Park, close to the athletics stadium in the eastern part of the town.

When: It runs every Saturday at 9am and uses a mix of park paths and open green space.

What to Expect: The course is welcoming and varied, making it suitable for runners, joggers and walkers of all abilities, with a friendly local crowd and plenty of volunteer support.

How to get there: Kings Park is easily reached by car via the A338 Wessex Way, with free on-street parking on surrounding roads, and local bus services stop nearby.

Details: Full event details, updates and registration information are available at www.parkrun.org.uk/bournemouth.

Poole Parkrun

Where: Poole Parkrun is held in Poole Park, looping around the lake and park pathways in a central and scenic setting.

When: The event takes place every Saturday at 9am and is known for its flat, fast course, which appeals to beginners and those aiming for personal bests alike.

What to Expect: Expect a lively atmosphere with a large turnout and a strong community feel.

How to Get There: Poole Park is within walking distance of Poole town centre, bus station and railway station, with several nearby car parks available.

Details: Official information can be found at www.parkrun.org.uk/poole.

Upton House Parkrun

Where: Upton House Parkrun takes place within the grounds of Upton Country Park and offers a more rural experience with parkland, woodland and harbour views along the route.

When: It runs every Saturday at 9am and features gently undulating paths that add variety without being overly challenging.

What to Expect: The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, ideal for those who enjoy scenic running.

How to get there: Upton Country Park is accessible by car from the A35, with parking available on site, and local bus routes stop nearby.

Details: Event details and updates are available at www.parkrun.org.uk/uptonhouse.

Moors Valley Parkrun

Where: Moors Valley Parkrun is set within Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, offering a woodland-based course on wide, well-maintained trails.

When: The run takes place every Saturday at 9am and is particularly popular with those who enjoy trail running in a natural setting.

What to Expect: Expect a peaceful atmosphere, forest scenery and a supportive community.

How to get there: Moors Valley is best reached by car, with on-site parking available within the country park.

Details: Full information can be found at www.parkrun.org.uk/moorsvalley

Durlston Country Park Parkrun

Where: Durlston Country Park Parkrun offers one of the most dramatic settings in the region, with a clifftop course overlooking the Jurassic Coast.

When: Taking place every Saturday at 9am, this is a more challenging route with hills and uneven trail paths, rewarded by exceptional sea views.

What to Expect: It attracts runners looking for a scenic and memorable experience.

How to get there: Durlston Country Park is located near Swanage and is best accessed by car, with parking available at the park.

Details: Official event information is available at www.parkrun.org.uk/durlstoncountrypark