A Scenic 5K Race Through the National Park

New Forest 5K – supported by FWRD

The New Forest 5K 2026 is the perfect introduction to running in one of England’s most beautiful National Parks. Set within New Forest National Park near Brockenhurst, Hampshire, this flat and scenic course winds through ancient woodland enclosures on compact gravel tracks. The 5K is open to runners aged 8 and over, making it a brilliant choice for families, first-time runners and experienced runners looking to experience the magic of the New Forest. Children aged 8 to 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Junior runners aged 11 to 16 may enter independently.

 

 

How do I enter the New Forest 5K 2027?

Click below to enter the New Forest 5K 2027 and secure your place.

In addition, combined adult and junior entries are available at a discounted rate — perfect for families entering together.

 

 

 

What is the New Forest 5K route like?

The New Forest 5K route winds through the heart of New Forest National Park on compact gravel forest tracks.

The course is flat throughout, making it ideal for first-time runners, younger participants and families running together.

It starts and finishes at New Forest Showground, Brockenhurst.

All routes may be subject to minor changes and are professionally measured.

 

 

 

Is the New Forest 5K a flat course?

Yes — the New Forest 5K is flat throughout, making it one of the most accessible 5K forest track races in Hampshire.

Please see the course gradient chart below for a full comparison of all race distances at the New Forest Marathon 2026.

Purple = 5K, Blue = 10K, Yellow = Half Marathon, Red = Full Marathon.

 

Download the New Forest 5K GPX File

Plan your race preparation by downloading the official 5K GPX route file — compatible with Garmin devices and all major GPS platforms.

Are you new to running? How do I train for a 5K?

If this is your first 5K, the NHS Couch to 5K programme is a brilliant free resource to help you get race-ready.

Therefore, whether you are a complete beginner or returning to running after a break, the plan takes you from the sofa to 5K in just nine weeks.

Click below to access the official NHS Couch to 5K running plan.

 

 

Which other race distances can I run at the New Forest Marathon 2026?

The New Forest 5K is just one of seven fantastic races on offer at the New Forest Marathon 2026 (see below).

Therefore, whether you are bringing the whole family or running with friends, there is a distance for every runner on the day.

Full Marathon — the ultimate 26.2 mile New Forest challenge through ancient woodland and iconic Rhinefield Ornamental Drive

 

Half Marathon — 13.1 miles of stunning New Forest scenery, flat and perfect for a PB

 

10K — a challenging and rewarding multi-terrain 10K through the heart of the New Forest

 

Junior Races — Junior 1 Mile and Junior 200m for younger runners

 

Woodland Walk — a beautiful led walk through New Forest National Park for supporters and non-runners

 

 

How does the New Forest Marathon protect the environment?

We’re a responsible, sustainable event — recognised by the Environment Agency as a national model of best practice. We work closely with Natural England and Forestry England to protect this extraordinary landscape.

Find Out How We Protect the New Forest →

Looking for a trail 5K in Dorset?

The New Forest 5K is organised by ORA Events — the same passionate team behind The Chase Trail Run, a spectacular trail running festival set on the Cranborne Chase AONB near Ringwood, Dorset.

So, if you are looking for another extraordinary running experience in the South of England, The Chase on 25th April 2027 could be your next adventure.