Stowe Night Run

I love running but I do find it difficult to keep motivated. I try to give myself something to aim for, whether that’s a PB at the parkrun or signing up for a future event. This year I was trying to find something a little different, and then I came across a series of night runs that are being held at National Trust properties. My nearest one was taking place at Stowe on Halloween. It sounded fun so I signed up. We have visited before, but never at night! It’s such a beautiful place, I thought it would be a great chance to see the magnificent gardens from a different perspective.

There were 3 different distances, 2.5, 5 or 7km. I decided to stick with what I know and do the 5k. This route consisted of running from the Corinthian Arch, down Bellgate Drive, then 3 laps of the Octagon Lake and back up to the arch. I wasn’t worried about my time, especially as I planned to take a few photos on the way round, I was more concerned with enjoying myself and making the most of the experience.

I’m not really one for Halloween (I dressed up once as a kid, which basically consisted of my mum back combing my already thick, frizzy hair and thus rendering it completely uncontrollable for a week) but as many people were in fancy dress, it was hard not to get in the spirit of things. As I ran round I even considered getting dressed up next year.

It was really good fun, even if I did have a Blair Witch moment when I found myself running through certain sections on my own. This wasn’t helped by my runny nose and the fact I was carrying a torch and camera.

Stowe is an amazing backdrop for a run, it was also a clear night with a big moon which added to the already spooky atmosphere. I enjoyed having a go at some night time photography, even if I’ve got a bit of work to do in this area. I really should have taken the time to get my camera set up before I started, I forgot how difficult it would be to fiddle about with settings etc in the dark!

I will definitely look out for more of these types of event. It’s a great way to explore some fantastic properties and see them in a different light.

Have you ever done something like this? Where’s the most interesting place you’ve been for a run?