Trail Running Tour in Exmoor: Running Coastal Cliffs, Open Moorland, and River Valleys

Exmoor National Park offers some of the most varied trail running in the UK. The mix of coastal paths, steep climbs, and rolling moorland creates an ever-changing challenge for runners. One moment, you’re pushing up a sharp ascent, and the next, you’re cruising along a clifftop with the Bristol Channel stretching out beside you.

Trail Running Tours UK leads guided runs through this unique terrain, helping runners improve their endurance, technique, and confidence on Exmoor’s rugged trails. Whether you’re training for a race, building technical ability, or looking for an off-road challenge, we structure every session for progress.

What We Offer

Trail running in Exmoor demands versatility. The trails move between packed dirt, loose rock, and wet grass, often within the same run. Understanding how to adjust stride, effort, and balance is key to running efficiently over this terrain.

Our guided runs focus on endurance, technique, and adaptability, ensuring every runner gets the most from each session.

Trail Running for All Levels

Whether you’re new to off-road running or experienced in technical trails, our runs are designed to match ability and push progress.

Every session is structured to challenge without overwhelming, allowing steady improvement in both technique and endurance.

Hill and Endurance Training

Exmoor’s climbs come steep and often. Learning how to handle elevation changes is key to running well here. Our training covers:

  • Climbing efficiency – Managing effort on long, steep ascents.

     

  • Technical descents – Controlling pace over rocky and uneven trails.

     

  • Long-distance pacing – Balancing effort for endurance sessions.

     

  • Adapting to terrain changes – Shifting between moorland, grass, and coastal paths.
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Coastal and Moorland Running Skills

Running Exmoor’s coastline is unlike anywhere else in the UK. The trails hug the cliffs, twist through woodlands, and open out onto exposed ridges. Learning how to manage footing, balance, and energy is essential.

  • Handling exposed coastal trails.

  • Running efficiently on steep, uneven paths.

  • Adjusting speed for mixed surfaces.

  • Managing wind and weather on open ridges.

Multi-Day Running Experiences

Exmoor’s trail network allows for extended running adventures. We offer multi-day sessions that focus on endurance, recovery, and adapting to changing conditions.

  • Back-to-back long runs.

     

  • Strength and stamina development.

     

  • Technical coaching across different terrains.

Coaching and Support

Trail Running Tours UK provides real-time feedback throughout each session, helping runners adjust technique and manage effort effectively. Our coaching focuses on:

  • Improving efficiency across mixed terrain.

  • Managing hydration and nutrition for endurance.

  • Developing race preparation strategies.

Planning, Safety, and Route Support

Running in Exmoor means handling coastal winds, sudden weather changes, and steep elevation shifts. We plan each session with pacing, route adjustments, and safety considerations in mind.

  • Route selection based on ability.

     

  • Weather monitoring for safe running.

     

  • Alternative routes for changing conditions.

     

  • Hydration and nutrition strategies for longer runs.

Recommended Kit for Exmoor Running

Exmoor’s conditions shift between damp moorland, rocky tracks, and exposed ridgelines. The right kit makes all the difference.

  • Shoes: Grip for wet grass, rock, and coastal paths.

  • Clothing: Windproof and waterproof layers for exposed trails.

  • Hydration: Essential for longer runs with few refill points.

  • Navigation Tools: Carried by guides for remote sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions

You should be comfortable running at least 10km on hilly terrain. Some sessions require experience with elevation and technical footing.

Trail running shoes with strong grip are essential. Exmoor’s mix of wet moorland, loose rock, and steep climbs requires footwear suited to uneven conditions.

Routes are planned with alternative options. If conditions become unsafe, we switch to a different trail while keeping the challenge.

Each session is adjusted for the group. No one is left behind, and those wanting more challenge can take on additional climbs.

Trail running shoes, waterproof layers, hydration, and food for longer runs. A full kit list is provided based on the planned session.

Run the Trails of Exmoor

Exmoor offers some of the most varied and rewarding trail running in the UK. The mix of steep climbs, coastal paths, and rolling moorland tests strength, control, and endurance. Trail Running Tours UK ensures every run is structured for skill development and progress. Limited places available—book your run today.

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