Run for Nature 2026
Run For Nature is back for 2026 on Sunday 29 March, raising money to save UK wildlife. Kickstart your 2026 fitness goals by entering this unique event, giving you the chance to run through the zoo and surrounding estate. Run the 5k, 10k or kid's one mile 'Zoom' event, and help support our mission of preventing extinction.
More than just a run
When you take part in Run For Nature at Chester Zoo not only will you be helping to save UK wildlife from extinction, you’ll also get a whole host of extra perks!
- Free zoo entry for all runners
- 25% discounted zoo entry for friends and family who have come along to support you on the day
- A finisher medal to wear with pride
- Fundraising bonuses and prizes
- Cuddly hedgehog plush for runners who raise over £80
- Access to our biggest ever events village
- And much more!
Run for UK wildlife
At Chester Zoo, conservation doesn't just happen in rainforests. It starts right here in our own backyard. Our next Run for Nature is raising money to protect some of the UK's most at-risk wildlife - like kingfishers, otters, harvest mice and hedgehogs.
The UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries on Earth, with one in six species at risk of extinction. Over the past 40 years, more than 40% of UK species have declined in abundance.
By fundraising for Run for Nature your support will help us continue this vital work and safeguard vulnerable UK wildlife for future generations.
What our runners have to say
Run for Nature and help save species from extinction
Gather your spectator squad
Bring along your cheer squad and let them spur you on throughout the run! All of your supporters will get discounted zoo entry so that you can enjoy a visit to the zoo together after you've crossed the finish line.
Help save species
At every Run For Nature event the money you raise goes towards saving different species. At the 2026 event you'll be running to help protect UK wildlife like kingfishers, otters, harvest mice and hedgehogs.
Run our route with a difference
The Chester Zoo 5K, 10K and Kid's Zoom both have flat and fast routes through our zoo estate. Starting in the zoo, you’ll pass fascinating sights like our Conservation Breeding Management Area.
Our 2025 runners helped us to raise over £200,000 for giraffe conservation.
"A great event!"
"We thoroughly enjoyed it! Everyone was super friendly, welcoming, and it was great fun. The course is great, and the overall feel is really inclusive."
Find out more about our work
Your support directly helps to fund our work - in the zoo and across the world. Find out more about the areas of conservation work our experts carry out every day.
