Calling all Park Run Tourists!

Created in 2004 by Paul Sinton-Hewitt, an IT worker in South London, Parkrun has become a national and international phenomenon.  Every Saturday at 9am, hundreds of thousands of like-minded runners, joggers and walkers come together to take part in free 5km timed runs across hundreds of locations nationwide.  Everyone is encouraged to join in, and if you’ve ever taken part in one, you’ll know that the start line is filled with as much variety as the London Palladium; beginners to Olympians, the young and the old, buggy pushers and even our four-legged friends!  

Here in Suffolk you’ll find the most easterly Parkrun in the UK and we think one of the most enjoyable routes.  If you’re a Parkrun Tourist this is definitely one you’ll want to get under your belt.  Lowestoft Park Run, was set up with the support of Access Community Trust by Rob Fawcett and his team of volunteers in October 2015 and has gone from strength to strength, attracting in the region of 220-250 participants each week.  The Lowestoft Parkrun team recently won Community Champion of the Year award at the Stars of Lowestoft & Waveney Awards 2017, fitting recognition for the well-managed, friendly and all-welcoming event that they run week-in, week-out.

Lowestoft is famous for its golden sandy beach and Parkrun Lowestoft makes the most of the town’s finest asset.  It sets off from the East Point Pavilion, heading south along the seafront.  There’s a lower and upper promenade enroute so a couple of challenging slopes to tackle, but they are rewarded with a long and gentle downhill stretch. During the run you can take in the views of the beach, the colourful beach huts that line the prom, traditional seaside landscaped gardens at Wellington Esplanade and views towards the cliffs at Pakefield. You’ll be supported along the route by the Parkrun volunteers, giving you helping words of encouragement and at the end you’ll be greeted with a smile and a cheer from local supporters.

After you’ve completed your 5k, you’ll be in need of refreshment, so why not pay a visit to the Sunrise Café and Ice Cream Parlour.  Located right on the beachfront you will have passed it, together with the wafts of bacon and freshly ground coffee twice during your route.  There’s no better spot in town to sit back and watch the world go by with a delicious breakfast and the sun on your face.

If you’re thinking of combining your cottage holiday in Suffolk with a bit of Parkrun tourism, why not consider staying in one of these lovely properties, all within easy reach of Lowestoft:

1 Barracks Cottages.  This cosy rural cottage for two sits in the pretty hamlet of Henstead. Here you’ll enjoy a truly peaceful escape with glorious countryside views.  Who could imagine that you’re only 10 minutes from the riverside town of Beccles, 12 minutes’ drive from Lowestoft, and around 15 minutes from the ever popular Southwold.  With its character beams and wood burning stove, it’s the perfect bolthole for an autumn or winter break.  

The Muse.  This newly built holiday home has a warm and inviting feel to it, thanks to the owners’ excellent choice of soft furnishings and mutely spring tones.  Located in the village of Wrentham, Lowestoft is just a short drive down the A12.  A holiday at The Muse puts you in position A for exploring the Suffolk Coast and the Waveney Valley.   

River End Cottage.  Bright, bold and just short walk from the River Waveney at Beccles Quay, River End Cottage is a fabulous, family holiday cottage.  Bright, spacious, and pet-friendly this is the ideal holiday base if you like messing about on boats, beach walks, and retail therapy (the city of Norwich is just a 30-minute drive from here.) 

4 Wellington Esplanade.  Situated with the finish line in view, this glorious terraced townhouse sits right on the seafront at Lowestoft.  Lavishly furnished, this large family home is ideal for summer holidays or a short break with friends.