.. although 7 miles and not exactly the quarter marathon, it is a great introduction to trail running and takes in some of the great Cotswold views at the same time.  Starting from the Stroud town centre, the Stroud Trail Quarter marathon joins the Cotswold Canal towpath to Capels Mill and under the Railway Viaduct, before taking a right and looking up towards Rodborough Fort.

The ascent of 450ft begins gradually, but increases in steepness to the fort and onto Rodborough Common (see picture right) , with fantastic views.  A mile or so later, a steep but short decent opens the run to St Chloe’s Woods and the great smell of wild garlic.