Enjoy delights of Bedgebury with newly installed 3-2-1 route

Bedgebury Forest, located in Kent, is ideal for cycling, walking, running, riding, adventure play and Go Ape. The National Pinetum, one of the world's finest conifer collections, is perfect for walks and picnics. Cared for by the Forestry Commission, Bedgebury is for people, wildlife and trees.

In January of this year, a newly marked running route was installed at Bedgebury. Lucy Tomlinson, the RunKent Activator, has worked closely with the Forestry Commission and Bedgebury to plan the new route to ensure that it's in keeping with the Bedgebury ethos: 'Safe, healthy outdoor fun for all ages and abilities'. 

The circular 6km route starts and finishes at the Visitor Centre. It follows wide compact pathways skirting the Pinetum and taking in the beautiful Forest surroundings. The route is suitable for all abilities with a few cheeky inclines to keep you on your toes!

Lucy said, "I want to thank Bedgebury for installing the route and for their on-going support of RunKent, the local Run England programme. The safe, clearly marked route is open to all abilities. Set in a beautiful location, you can walk, jog or run it."

Lucy recently tried out the newly installed route for herself. She joined the locally based Run England Group: Bedgebury Forest Runners. Led by qualified Leaders: Sam Lloyd and Julia Moen, the Runners meet every Wednesday at 9.15am. The sessions cater for all abilities so no one is left behind!

Lucy commented, "Well done to everyone who braved the conditions on the day - lashing rain and strong winds didn't stop the Bedgebury Forest Runners! It was great to try out the new route with the Group. The feedback from everyone was extremely positive and they all seemed to enjoy the run, especially the downhill section to the finish!"

Sam Lloyd, Group Leader noted, "I think the route is fantastic. We all really enjoyed it and it definitely has something for everyone - a bit of flat, some ups with a few downs, and a lovely bit around the edge of the Pinetum. And of course, the cafe stop at the end!"

Ann-Marie Butland, member of Bedgebury Forest Runners added, "The route is clearly marked so you can't get lost and it's great to know how far I'm running. You do have to conquer a few hills along the way but the Group really help keep me going. I may even come back before our next session and give it a go on my own!"

• You can find full details of the newly installed route at Bedgebury plus the other 25 running routes in Kent at: www.runengland.org/routes
• If you'd like to install a running route in your local park/forest in Kent, why not get in touch with Lucy Tomlinson, Run Kent Activator, via email at lucy.tomlinson@kent.gov.uk.