JAN25: Markeaton Park parkrun
8 people attending
12 places left
GET SOCIAL THIS JANUARY! This event is one of loads of events taking place over the same weekend! Check out all the events over the weekend of 17-19 January 2025: OutdoorLads.events/JAN25. Great for new and regular members!
Markeaton Park is Derby’s most visited park. It offers a place to escape from day to day living and city life and experience a little bit of countryside on Derby’s doorstep. The first park was laid out in the medieval period then from arable fields to an 18th century enclosed park with a hall and into the 20th century public park we see today. The park has many features that mark its history, including ancient trees, historic lost roads, old arable field patterns, some old buildings and the remains of a Second World War army camp.
Markeaton parkrun is two laps of the park and it typically attracts some 300 or more runners. Course page. The average time to complete the course is about 29 minutes, but do it at your own pace. Parkrun is designed to be a fun run, not a race. Walk the route if you prefer or simply watch and cheer on the runners. There is always a great atmosphere at parkrun events. When we are all over the finish line we will visit the nearby Orangery cafe for breakfast.
Make a day of it. Please see a related afternoon walk event here. At 11:00 there is an option to head out for a circular walk of about 11 km (7 miles) to the southern edge of the Kedleston Park estate and visit Meynell Langley tearooms for coffee and cake (or whatever you fancy) in the afternoon.
Dogs are welcome but owners must ensure they are kept under control at all times.
Waitlist: If this event is fully booked and you really want to attend, add yourself to the waitlist because places often become available. If you are on the list but can no longer come, please cancel your attendance as soon as possible to allow waitlisted people to attend in your place.
IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
You MUST complete a Participation Statement, in addition to booking your event space before attending an OutdoorLads event. You only need to complete this Participation Statement once, not for each event you attend.
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Image Credits: All images taken by the event leader with permission for ODL use.
What to bring
Anyone new to walking may wish to draw from the following as required:
Suitable well-fitted walking footwear is most important to keep you safe and comfortable. Sturdy trainers with cushioned soles and a good grip are often suitable but proper walking boots or shoes in wet conditions or on uneven ground are preferable. Smooth soles with no grip are not suitable. Thick, well-fitted socks cushion your feet, help to keep you dry, and prevent blisters.
Layers of clothing you can easily put on and take off according to changing temperature and weather conditions help to keep you warm and comfortable. Choose a base layer (vest or t-shirt), a mid layer (micro-fleece or long-sleeved shirt), and in cooler weather add an outer layer (windproof jacket or thick fleece). Breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry more quickly. Synthetic trousers are lighter and dry quicker than denim. Large pockets are useful.
Avoid jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, and take ages to dry out. On warm days shorts may be suitable, but consider rough foliage such as brambles or nettles on some routes. Check for ticks when walking through long grass, etc. with bare legs.
A hat or cap keeps your head and eyes shaded in direct sun. Sunglasses protect your eyes from glare and make it easier to see where you are going. Sun block is advisable during prolonged exposure. In colder weather or a biting wind, a hat, scarf and gloves are essential.
Bring waterproofs to stay dry in wet weather. Water resistant fabric loses effectiveness over time. It will need to be re-proofed or replaced periodically. Bring a towel and a set of dry clothes to change into if possible. A backpack rain cover helps to keep belongings dry. Gaiters are optional and help to keep lower legs and feet dry. An umbrella is impractical while walking.
A comfortable backpack of 20 to 30-litre capacity, allowing you to use your arms freely, is suitable for most day walks.
Walking sticks are optional and may assist when climbing or descending, or on uneven ground.
Bring any essential medicine you may need during the day for any on-going ailments or conditions, such as hay-fever or diabetes.
Food & drink
Please bring a packed lunch as required or have breakfast at the Orangery cafe. Ensure you have plenty of water.