Chester Zoo has announced a new spring 2026 date for its 10K, 5K and one-mile running event.

The return of the national zoo’s much-loved Run For Nature will take place on a new springtime date, Sunday 29 March 2025, with funds supporting the zoo’s wildlife conservation efforts in the UK.

Previous sold out events have helped support conservation efforts for highly endangered Asian elephants, Eastern black rhino and Northern giraffe, but organisers say this year’s focus brings conservation ‘a little closer to home’ and will protect some of the UK’s most threatened species.

Just 3,000 spaces are up for grabs, and all funds raised will help safeguard hedgehogs, kingfishers, otters and harvest mice, at a time when the UK is considered one of the most nature-depleted countries on Earth.

Adults can choose from a 10K or 5K route where runners will stomp through the zoo and past elephants, rhinos, lemurs and vultures - all before heading out into the wider Cheshire countryside.

Youngsters are also invited to take part in a one-mile ‘Zoom’ race, open to children aged 4-15, which takes place entirely within the zoo’s 130-acre grounds.

All runners will receive free entry to the zoo for the rest of the day as part of their registration, along with a 25% discount for friends and family who come along to show support.

Run For Nature is a really special event, where every pound raised helps us protect some of the world’s most endangered species. In previous years, runners have already supported conservation efforts for Asian elephants, Eastern black rhinos and Northern giraffe. This springtime though, we’re turning our attention much closer to home in the UK, and to the wildlife we share our gardens, parks and countryside with.

With one in six species now at risk of extinction in the UK, every runner will be playing a vital role in helping us protect animals like hedgehogs, harvest mice, kingfishers and otters - supporting our growing nature recovery work across right across Cheshire.

Whether you’re chasing a new PB in the 10K, tackling your very first 5K or cheering on kids in the Zoom run, and enjoying a free zoo visit together afterwards is a lovely way to celebrate – and knowing you’ve helped nature along the way makes it even more special.”

As a conservation charity, Chester Zoo relies on public support to carry out its vital work, and participants are encouraged to fundraise alongside taking part in the run. Every pound raised will help support efforts to protect wildlife and habitats across the UK.

Those taking part will receive a Run For Nature 2026 medal, while anyone who raises more than £80 will also receive a cuddly hedgehog plush toy. Top individual fundraisers will be in with a chance to win a variety of prizes, including an annual family membership, special behind-the-scenes animal experiences and animal adoptions.

Places for Run For Nature’s 10K, 5K and one-mile ‘Zoom’ are now open, with runners encouraged to sign up early to secure their spot.

To register, please visit: www.chesterzoo.org/runfornature