The most recent event on Saturday morning in the grounds attracted more than 300 runners of all ages.

New research has revealed that Stirling is Parkrun capital of Scotland after online searches for the weekly run soared.

The findings were outlined by AussieBoots footwear firm, which analysed search history data from 2022 to 2024 related to Parkrun – and found searches for the event from Stirling had gone up by 56 per cent, the highest rate in the country.

It came in ahead of Aberdeen (53 per cent), Glasgow (48 per cent) and Edinburgh (39 per cent) to top the data gathered over the three-year period.

Evidence on the ground seems to back up that level of interest in Parkruns locally, with the weekly, free five kilometre runs attracting a strong response from both athletes and those just looking to get up and keep moving on a Saturday morning.

One of the most popular events takes place every Saturday morning in the grounds of Stirling University – with the most recent event from Saturday (March 8) attracting a massive 321 runners.

Among the wide array of those taking part – which included runners of all ages – included Olympic silver medal winning curler Bruce Mouat, who is based in Stirling at the National Curling Academy in The PEAK.

Alongside that run through the scenic grounds of the university, there is also an alternative Parkrun available for budding runners at Plean Country Park – also at the traditional 9.30am Saturday morning start time.

This week’s Parkrun in Plean was cancelled due to a fallen tree on the route, but the event regularly attracts between 35 and 60 runners.

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Pete Bryden from AussieBoots said: “The growing popularity of Parkruns across the UK highlights a nationwide shift towards community-driven fitness and outdoor exercise.

“Scotland’s remarkable 84 per cent surge in searches reflects how more people are embracing the accessibility and social aspect of these weekly events.

“Whether it’s for fitness, mental well-being, or simply enjoying the outdoors, Parkruns continue to unite people in a shared commitment to health and activity.”