9 of the UK’s best running tracks | Daily News Byte

There are around 360 athletics tracks in the UK. These range from state-of-the-art, lottery-funded stadiums to free-to-use cinder tracks. Most of the Olympic standard is 400m in circumference, but other distances can be found – including 200m, 300m and even, Regent’s Parks Iconic Oval, 386.8m. All of them have their own unique charm. Trying to find a running track near you can be daunting, however, so we’ve rounded up 9 of the best tracks from across the UK to help.

Nethercraigs Running Track, Glasgow

The track gets points for its accessibility: it’s open seven days a week and access is pay-as-you-go. So if you’re new to track running, it’s the perfect place to earn your stripes (or should that be spikes?).

Find it: 355 Corkerhill Rd, G52 1TQ

Sutton Sports Complex, Edinburgh

If you’re looking for a track in a quieter environment, this 6-lane Edinburgh option scores highly. It is surrounded by gardens and greenery. Its opening hours are also excellent: weekdays from 9am to 10pm; Weekends 8:30am-6pm.

Find it: Stevenson Dr, EH11 3HB

Paddington Recreation Ground, London

This West London gem is popular with a variety of running clubs including Serpentine and Track Mafia. And for good reason: a London 2012 legacy beneficiary, its facilities are top of the range, while its leafy location in Maida Vale Park gives it a sense of privacy and tranquillity.

Find it: Randolph Avenue, Maida Vale W9 1PD

Ladywell Arena, London

Kent AC’s training ground, home to Olympic triathlon champ Alex Yee, is an under-the-radar gem in this well-maintained oval in south-east London. Located in Ladywell Fields, it’s tucked away from the hustle and bustle, and open 7am-10pm weekdays and 7am-6pm weekends.

Find it: Silvermere Road, Catford, Lewisham SE6 4QX

Mary Peters Track, Belfast

There are currently nine clubs that call this fabulous track home, so you’re bound to find someone to train with here. There are eight lanes and while everyone is welcome, it’s probably best to book in advance (email info@marypeterstack.com).

Find it: Upper Malone Road, Belfast BT9 5PR

National Indoor Athletics Centre, Cardiff

This 200 meter banked track is as advanced as it gets. Additionally, there is a nine-lane 60m sprint track and facilities for long jump, pole vault and more.

Find it: Cyncoed Campus, Cyncoed Road, CF23 6XD

Manchester Regional Arena, Manchester

An eight-lane 400 meter track with serious pedigree: enough seating for 6,500 spectators. Several running clubs use the track, including Manchester Harries, who train there on Mondays and Wednesdays and welcome new members of all abilities.

Find it: Rowsley St, M11 3FF

John Charles Center for Sport, Leeds

The best way to access this great track is by going to a Leeds City Athletics Club training session: the club meets there every Tuesday and Thursday from 5:30-8:30pm and welcomes runners of all abilities.

Find it: LS11 5DJ

Parliament Hill Fields Athletics Track, London

Home to a fantastic night of 10,000m PBs and Highgate Harriers, the track is located at the base of Parliament Hill, a frequent home of the English National Cross-Country Championships. Best of all, you don’t need to book – just turn up on the day. But remember: you have to pay in cash (adults £4.80, concessions £2.90).

Find it: NW3 2JP