NO ENTRY FEE, NO PRESSURE, NO EXCUSES – THIS IS PARKRUN
Published: 30/03/2026 | By: Jasmin Bodman
The famous Parkrun. A worldwide event that gets people everywhere running together, no matter their ability. It's a great way to start your running journey, and a realistic target to set yourself if you've just started and want to improve. But what actually is a Parkrun? And where did it all begin?
All around the world, people have leaned into the running movement in recent years. Joining a run club has become a firm fixture in many people's social lives, and for good reason. But for those looking for something a little more low-key to begin with, there's no better starting point than the humble Parkrun.
It's 2004, the scene is Bushy Park (a London classic). What started as thirteen runners, a handful of volunteers and a café to end the run has now become a global movement spanning more than 20 countries, with over 10 million registered participants worldwide. As the years went by, more and more countries adopted the Parkrun, opening up a new world to people looking to get fit and be around others who share the same values. Australia, Denmark, the USA. Everyone wanted a piece of the Parkrun.
In 2024/25, Parkrun celebrated its momentous 20th anniversary. After two decades of community, exercise and most importantly, fun, it became clear that running was cemented in society as a sport that's here to stay; accessible and non-judgemental. Whatever your age or ability, Parkrun welcomes anyone and everyone.
And that really does mean everyone. Junior Parkrun takes place every Sunday morning, covering a two kilometer course designed specifically for children aged four to 14. It has the same welcoming, pressure-free atmosphere that makes the adult events so popular, making it a brilliant introduction to running for younger ones and a genuine weekend ritual for the whole family.
So what actually is it? Whether you run, walk, jog or a mix of all three, Parkrun is about enjoying yourself. There's no last place, no judgement; just show up on a Saturday morning after registering and take part. Running brings so many health benefits too, from improved cardiovascular fitness to being a brilliant way to clear your head when life feels particularly hectic. Even simply getting out and moving is already a first step in the right direction.
Generally, UK events are held on a Saturday at 9am – though it's worth double-checking your local event if you're unsure.
A simple sign-up on the Parkrun website will get you registered in no time. You'll receive a personal barcode which you'll use to log your time at the finish – either print it out or keep it on your phone. Beyond that, all you really need is a comfortable pair of trainers and some suitably optimistic layering for the great British weather. No race pack, no entry fee, no fuss. PB chasers can revel in tracking their times week on week, while first-timers can feel proud of simply showing up. It's a win-win for all.
Part of what makes Parkrun so special is the people. Volunteers are the backbone of every event – marshalling the route, scanning barcodes at the finish and cheering on every single participant, whether they cross the line in 18 minutes or 58. No experience is required to volunteer, either, making it a great way to get involved in the running community even before you feel ready to run yourself.
And then there's the post-run café. Perhaps Parkrun's most beloved tradition, the gathering afterwards – coffee in hand, legs aching, comparing times and swapping stories – is as much a part of the experience as the run itself. It's where the community really comes alive, and where many a Saturday morning friendship has been forged.
From humble origins in a London park to a global movement with millions of participants, Parkrun has grown into something far bigger than a 5km loop. It's a reminder that running, at its heart, is for everyone. So whether you're a first-timer nervously toeing the start line or a seasoned regular chasing yet another PB, there's a place for you. All you have to do is show up.
