MARATHON TRAINING ON THE BOLSOVER LOOP: A SCENIC ROUTE TO SUCCESS

If you're preparing for a marathon, the right training route can make all the difference. The Bolsover Loop, a 26-mile walking and cycling trail that weaves through the stunning landscapes where Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire meet, offers a challenging and picturesque backdrop for your marathon training.

Whether you're training for your first marathon or aiming for a personal best, the Bolsover Loop provides the perfect combination of terrain, beauty, and historical landmarks to keep you motivated throughout your run.

What is the Bolsover Loop?

The Bolsover Loop is a 26-mile route that connects several towns, trails, and heritage sites in and around Bolsover District. This well-marked trail passes through beautiful countryside, taking runners on a journey through ancient landscapes, nature reserves, and sites rich in local history. It’s an excellent alternative to the more traditional training routes, offering a variety of terrains and some incredible detours along the way.

You can choose to run the entire loop in one go or break it down into manageable sections, making it easy to tailor your training to your fitness level and goals. With its almost entirely traffic-free paths, the Bolsover Loop follows footpaths, bridleways, and quiet roads, ensuring a peaceful and safe training experience.

Why choose the Bolsover Loop?

1. Diverse Terrain for Endurance Training

   Training for a marathon requires a combination of endurance, strength, and adaptability, and the Bolsover Loop provides it all. The route features a mix of rolling hills, flat stretches, and off-road paths, ensuring that you build the necessary strength for long-distance running. The natural terrain will prepare your legs and mind for the varied conditions you'll face on race day, including steep inclines and gentle descents.

   
   

2. Inspiring Scenery to Keep You Motivated

   Marathon training can sometimes feel like a slog, especially on long, tiring runs. But the Bolsover Loop offers an ever-changing landscape that can keep your spirits high. From the iconic Bolsover Castle, perched atop a hill, to the quiet beauty of Pleasley Vale and the historic Creswell Crags, there’s plenty to see along the way. These scenic landmarks provide perfect places to pause, reflect, and find motivation as you push through your miles.

   
   

3. Rich History and Heritage

   One of the unique features of the Bolsover Loop is its connection to rich local heritage. Along the route, you'll pass notable landmarks such as Bolsover Castle, Hardwick Hall, Creswell Crags, and Pleasley Pit, each of which has its own fascinating story. These historical stops provide perfect opportunities for rest, refueling, and learning about the area’s past, making your training feel more like an adventure through time.

   
   

4. Peaceful, Traffic-Free Routes

   The Bolsover Loop is nearly entirely traffic-free, ensuring a calm and serene environment for your runs. With its mix of bridleways, footpaths, and quiet lanes, you can enjoy the tranquility of the countryside without worrying about busy roads or traffic. This peaceful setting is ideal for those seeking a more meditative and focused training experience.

   
   

5. Great for Long Runs and Interval Training

   The Loop offers flexibility for various training styles. You can use it for long, steady runs on its flat sections or include hill training on the more challenging inclines. With its diverse terrain, the Bolsover Loop is perfect for building stamina and preparing for the variety of challenges you’ll face during marathon day.

   
   

Highlights along the Loop

• Bolsover Castle: High on a hill, this 17th-century castle offers breathtaking views and a rich history that’s easy to get lost in during a quick break.

• Creswell Crags: Known for its prehistoric cave art, this fascinating site gives runners a glimpse into Britain’s ancient past.

• Hardwick Hall: A beautiful 16th-century country house with sprawling grounds, Hardwick Hall is a great stop for exploring history and enjoying nature.

• Pleasley Vale and Pleasley Pit: These locations blend nature with industrial heritage, providing a peaceful environment that contrasts with the area's mining past.

• Clowne and Creswell: These historic towns offer charming pit stops, each rich in local history, from Roman settlements to mining communities.

• Poulter Country Park: A serene park with scenic views, perfect for unwinding and stretching after a long run.

The Bolsover Loop offers a perfect combination of challenging terrain, rich history, and scenic beauty, making it an ideal destination for marathon training. Whether you're looking to increase your mileage, work on speed, or simply enjoy the fresh air and countryside, the Loop provides everything you need for a successful training experience. With its traffic-free paths, inspiring landmarks, and tranquil environment, the Bolsover Loop is more than just a training route – it’s an adventure waiting to be explored. Lace up your running shoes, take in the view, and start your marathon journey on the Bolsover Loop today!