Five must-try parkruns across Melbourne's eastern suburbs

Keen to start running but don't have anyone who wants to get up early with you? Join one of your local parkruns, which host free weekly 5km timed runs every Saturday.

Author

Matthew Sims
February 20, 2025

Every Saturday at 8am, a ritual begins at more than 500 locations across the country – a ritual that means a lot to those who participate. This is parkrun, a free weekly 5km timed run. You don’t have to run the course - stroll, jog, sprint, mosey, volunteer or just enjoy the scene.

Here are five local parkruns to try in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

Starting on the gravel path leading from the carpark, runners then complete two anti-clockwise laps of the lake. The run consists of flat and wide gravel paths, and runners are often treated to views of the lake, as well as birdlife and other wildlife.

Treat yourself to a coffee from the coffee van on site after the run or take a few more leisurely laps of the lake.

The course starts at the barbecue shelter across from the Number 6 Deakin University carpark on Holland Avenue in Burwood. The course is a circuit of about 1km, which loops back to the starting line, followed by an out-and-back section that goes along both sides of the creek.

This course starts near the main carpark off the Fitzsimons Lane entrance. Runners follow an anti-clockwise direction along a sealed pathway and can enjoy views of the old manor, woodlands and native shrublands.

Afterwards, you’ll find participants probably drinking coffee at Carlucci’s at 134 James Street in Templestowe.

Starting and finishing at Schwerkolt Cottage, this track follows the Eastlink Trail toward the city. Coffee is ordered by runners at Little Buddy Café at 91 Loughnan Road in Ringwood North.

This course starts to the south of the Jenkins Lane car park and follows the Dorset Recreation Trail all the way around to a 2.5km marker, before returning the same way,  passing the start line, and heading down the hill through the finish chute.

Grab a post-run caffeine hit with fellow runners at Meet Me in The Middle Café at 510 Dorset Road in Croydon South.

Remember to register online at parkrun.com before your first run and print/screenshot your barcode to get your time recorded. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, parkrun always offers a welcoming atmosphere.