Here’s some of what you need to know about how to start a new parkrun (in the UK but most will apply elsewhere), including costs, permissions, and building a core team. It is not an official guide and just something I have put together. Do get in touch with your local parkruns and speak to those with experience too.
Starting a new parkrun in your community is a rewarding way to encourage health, connection, and inclusivity. With over 1,000 weekly events across the UK, parkrun has grown into a beloved movement. But starting up a new parkrun isn’t easy.
Why Start a New parkrun?
Before diving into the logistics, it’s worth considering the benefits of launching a new parkrun.
- Encourages regular physical activity
- Strengthens community bonds
- Offers an inclusive event for all abilities
- Creates volunteering opportunities
Whether you’re passionate about running, walking, or community building, starting a new parkrun has a lasting positive impact.
Step-by-Step Guide How to Start a New parkrun
Understand parkrun’s Mission and Format
Before applying, attend a few events. parkrun is a free, weekly, timed 5K event (or 2K for juniors aged 4-14 years) driven entirely by volunteers. Understanding the atmosphere and format is key before launching your own. obviously volunteering for each of the different roles will also give you a good sense of what is required.
Read my previous post if you are new to parkrun.
Secure a Suitable Location
Your proposed route must be:
- Exactly 5 km long (or 2 km for junior parkrun)
- Safe and mostly traffic-free
- Accessible for all participants, including those with disabilities
- Ideally a loop, out-and-back, or lapped course on public land like parks, promenades, or trails
- You may need to consider parking
I believe that new parkruns must not cross roads, have steps and must be able to cater for a minimum amount of participants. This is only from what I have read online so you may want to confirm that this is true.
Gain Landowner Permission
Written consent from the landowner is mandatory. This could be local councils, park authorities, National Trust, Forestry England or private estates. parkrun HQ can help support discussions if needed.
parkrun has a helpful reputation, and their national office can assist in negotiations if needed. Be prepared to show how the event will be managed and how you’ll minimise impact on the environment and other park users.
Build a Strong Core Team
A successful parkrun relies on a committed core team of 8–12 people who can share responsibilities, such as:
- Event Director
- Volunteer Coordinator
- Timekeepers
- Barcode Scanners
- Marshals
The Event Director will be your lead contact and the driving force behind launching the event. You don’t have to do it alone — get local running clubs, friends, or community groups involved.
Building a dependable team is critical for long-term success. Without this can see the event dissolve like Aston Hall parkrun.
Understand the Costs Involved
Starting a new parkrun is free for participants, but not free to set up. Here’s a breakdown of key startup costs:
- Initial setup cost: Around £4,000 plus VAT (as of 2025)
- Covers equipment, signage, IT systems, insurance, training, and central support from parkrun HQ
- Funded by local councils, charities, health bodies, or sponsors — not by individuals.
parkrun UK will help you secure this funding, and they must approve your funding source before launch.
Submit Your Application
Once everything is lined up, submit your interest via the parkrun UK start your own event page.
You’ll receive guidance through course risk assessments, course mapping, volunteer training, equipment distribution, communications and social media setup and final approvals.
From start to launch usually takes around 3–6 months. This will depend on how quickly permissions and funding are secured, and that there are no other delays to the planned start.
Tips for Launch Success
- Promote locally: Use Facebook, community boards, and running groups to build interest.
- Hold a test event: This unofficial run helps the team iron out logistics.
- Celebrate the launch: Invite local press, councillors, and community leaders to your inaugural event. However, if you want a soft, quieter launch to help embed it then also let people people know that too! Giving them a good idea about when you feel it is best for them to come.
- Embrace inclusivity: Welcome walkers, children, dogs (one on a short lead), and all abilities.
Final Thoughts on How You Start a New parkrun
If you want to start a new parkrun remember it takes passion, patience, and teamwork. It is more than setting up a run – it’s about building a space for health, happiness, and community.
Do keep in mind that things are changing all the time. For instance now more walkers are encouraged volunteers are asked to give more of their time. Plus with the increase in numbers of participants more volunteers may be required (scanning for example). But some of these can be filled by those “running” and volunteering.
As mentioned I have yet to start a new parkrun. Personally we were hoping to start a new parkrun junior but it never got off the ground. If you have any further helpful information or feedback I will happily amend this post.