On the last Sunday of the month , Cannon Events put on 2 events at Holmebrook Valley Park, a 1500m run followed by a 5k run. The timing allows both events to be run (if you can complete 1500m in under 15 minutes). Both events start by the lake, down the hill from the car park at the top.

This country park has been landscaped on the site of a former opencast coal mine which was operational in the 1990s. Streams, meadows, woodland and the lake were all created on this land, and the result is now a mature habitat, which is home to a lot of wildlife.

The 5k route is a two lapper with a start and finish at different points around the lakes. The route heads out along a flat, wide muddy path, over a small bridge, then turns on to a firm gravel path, passing through open meadow. There is a small descent at the end along a rain damaged path. The path around the lake is wide and flat. The total strava elevation comes in at about 32m, with nothing too steep at any point on the route.

Friendly and supportive marshals are located at key junctions. If in doubt, just stick with the main path.

There is a cafe on site, and (for a bit of variety) petanque (French Boule) is played (even in the drizzle) on an “open to the public” piste near the Pavillion

Thanks go to organisers and volunteers who endured more summer rain to put this monthly event on.  Sadly, like most of my 2024 runs, they are slower than they were last year. Something I’m still pondering.

Full Address: Holmebrook Valley Country Park, Water Meadow Lane, Chesterfield S41 8XP.  Start Time 10:00am 1500m and 10:15am 5k – Run one or both

Location: Approx. 20 mins from Sheffield, just south of Barlow.  The next event is scheduled for Sunday 23rd June 2024

Prizes/trophies are awarded to regular “improving” runners