Running at Godolphin

Published:: 20 February 2025

A group of runners running through the long grass in a wooded area — Running through long grass | © National Trust Images / John Millar

Join us for our free 5km & 10k trail run every month and take in the stunning countryside around Godolphin. Find out more below about the route & how to get involved.

Time in nature is often a source of comfort for all of us, offering space & the chance to take stock. We continue to care for green spaces so people can head outside and spend some time getting to know the beauty of the countryside on their doorstep and play their part in helping us care for these beautiful places.

What is the Trust10?

The Trust10 is a free montly 10km trail run that takes place on the fourth Sunday (or third Sunday in December) every month. There's no timings, no pressure on speed - simply enjoy the countryside around Godolphin at your own pace. If monitoring your running time is important to you, please remember to bring your own timing device.

The safety briefing begins at 8.50am for a 9am start. No pre-booking required.

In the event of extreme weather, a final decision on whether the run will go ahead or not will be made by 3pm on the Saturday before. Please check the Godolphin website or Facebook page for the most up to date information.

Click here for Trust 10 dates

Who is the Trust10 suitable for?

All abilities are welcome & there is no pressure to complete the full 10km.

The trail is two laps of a 5km route & we welcome anyone to run one or both laps. Be aware it’s not a flat parkrun-style event & includes a tough but worthwhile incline to the top of Godolphin Hill.

The recommended age of runners is 14 & over. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult throughout the run. We also welcome spectactors who wish to cheer on friends, family or other participants.

Unfortunately because of the terrain & stiles, the route is not suitable for buggies.

A view of a path up Godolphin Hill, Cornwall on a summer's day — Godolphin Hill, Cornwall | © National Trust Images / James Dobson

The route

The trail at Godolphin is a multi-terrain route involving farm track, fields, foothpaths, stiles, and a significant incline up Godolphin Hill where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views across the Cornish coastline.

The route is well waymarked with directional arrows & pink flags and we have marshals en-route at strategic points, as well as a back marker. Don't forget to say hello to them as you go past as without volunteers we wouldn’t be able to hold this event each month.

If you’re interested in lending a hand periodically, please get in touch with Katie via email katie.reynolds2@nationaltrust.org.uk or call 01736 761015

What should I be aware of?

Devon Red cattle

The tenant farmer has Devon Red cattle grazing seasonally on Godolphin Hill which also helps improve the habitat of the hill for nature, as well as other livestock in some of the fields along the route.

Take care near livestock

Please take care around livestock. Slow down and if necessary, stop or detour around them. Do not pass between cattle and their young. In the unlikely case of an incident with livestock, the run will be ended and you may be asked to turn around and return to the start.

If you have a dog with you & are approached by cattle, let your dog go & call them back when safe to do so.

A group of cattle graze while wearing Nofence collars, which contains the cows using virtual fencing technology, at Studland Bay, Dorset — Red cattle grazing in a field | © National Trust Images / Emma Brisidon

Can I bring my dog?

Well-behaved dogs are welcome, but must be kept on a fixed lead (not an extendable one), at all times. This is due to livestock being present on the route and to help our efforts for nature restoration in the coutryside. If cattle approach you with your dog, let your dog go & call them back when safe to do so.

Parking

Runners are welcome to use the car parks at Godolphin and meet in the field opposite the Welcome Hut. Parking charges apply and National Trust members can park for free by scanning their membership card.

Facilities & access to Godolphin

There are toilets avilable for use prior to the start of the run. Godolphin garden, tea-room and outbuildings open at 10am & cannot be accessed ahead of the Trust10 starting.

The Piggery tea-room at Godolphin is located close the start & finish line and once open, spectators can grab a take away hot drink while waiting for runners to finish or to join friends & family after the run and treat yourself to a well-earned drink & sweet treat.