Where I run no. 3 - The Phoenix Trail

There used to be a railway connection between Princes Risborough and Thame and this line carried on to Oxford decades ago.


The SUSTRANS initiative has resulted in this being converted into a countryside cycleway, providing ideal even terrain for a runner (and his dog). It is called the Phoenix Trail.

I usually pick up the trail at Towersey, for a 5 or 7 mile out and back run.


It is gun-barrel straight most of the way, although it does occasionally cross a minor road.


The level crossings have been removed of course. Perfect for speedwork, if one were so inclined.....My halfway point on the five miler is at a tempting group of seats!


There are some weird statues and signs along the way, as well as the occasional tribute to old railway signals.
No doubt they have some sort of mystical significance.

If I want I can integrate it inot a long run as there is a link to the Ridgeway path, close to Princes Risborough in a village called Horsenden.
Another area to run where the short car ride is well worth it be able to do plenty of miles without the traffic.