The Giant’s Causeway coastal trail has been recognised as one of the United Kingdom’s most scenic running routes in new research from Postcode Lottery.

A survey of 1,000 runners across the UK placed the Northern Ireland route among the top picks for picturesque runs. The 13-kilometre trail from Loch Lomond Shores to Ben Lomond was voted the single most scenic overall.

The study also highlighted a growing culture of competition and performance among runners, with two-thirds of those polled comparing their activity to others on fitness apps. Half admitted feeling pressure to make their workouts appear more impressive online.

Some runners admitted to unusual tactics to improve their stats, including jogging on the spot and pretending to stretch when stopping for a rest.