HOLYROOD PARK, EDINBURGH
Scotland’s capital is a city with many faces, from the winding alleys and steps of the Old Town to the wide, grand streets of the New Town, all overlooked by the glowering granite of the Castle on its rock. At the other end of the Royal Mile is a very different part of the city: Holyrood Park, venue for countless cross-country championships and a serious contender for the most breathtaking urban park in the UK. Looming over the park and the city is a real test for any runner: Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano offering glorious views of the city and – at the right time of day – a remarkably silent retreat away from the crowds (visit it on a nice summer’s day and expect to encounter hordes of walkers though). You can find out more about the park at historic-scotland.gov.uk.