Trail and ultra running have shown a dramatic increase in popularity over recent years. It certainly seems like everyone’s heading for the trails nowadays, and the number of events has risen exponentially. Although this is good news for runners, you may also feel overwhelmed by the choices on offer.
We’ve helped narrow it down for you by selecting ten of the very best races from around the UK. From rugged coastal views to scenic lakes and towering mountains, you’ll certainly be inspired by these incredible routes.
Without further ado, here are some incredible events that you can take part in this year.
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It’s easy to feel intimidated when planning your first trail race. You needn’t worry, though; trail races are open to runners of all levels, and a lot of events have multiple distances on offer. Although some of these events include ultras, they have shorter or less technical alternatives for those who prefer a more manageable distance. Make sure to have proper trail running shoes to get you started !
Dorset Endurance Coastal Trail
Swanage (England), 7 December 2024
Events: 10k, Half Marathon, Marathon, Ultra (60 km)
This event is part of Endurancelife’s coastal trail series and follows some of the fabulous Jurassic Coast. You’ll fly over the turquoise ocean along chalky cliffs, dipping into beautiful coves and through picturesque villages. The courses are hilly, with the ultra banking over 2000 m of ascent, but the 10 km course is perfectly doable with a moderate 230 m elevation gain.
Lakeland Trails in Coniston
Coniston (England), 8 June 2024
Events: 10 km, 15 km
Coniston is nestled in the heart of the beautiful rolling hills of the Lake District, and the routes take you along footpaths and bridleways with panoramic views of Coniston Water and the surrounding peaks. If you want to follow the 15 km course, you can choose between the race (2-hour time limit) or the “challenge” (3.5-hour time limit). This event has a festival atmosphere, with race commentary, live music, and food and drink stands.
Giant's Causeway Trail Run
Ballintoy (Northern Ireland), 13 April 2024
Event: 20 miles (32 km)
The route follows the breathtaking stretch of coastline around the world-famous Giant's Causeway, which is Northern Ireland's first UNESCO Heritage Site. Expect dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and ancient castle ruins as you run from Ballintoy to Portrush. The spectacular views should be enough to distract your aching legs as they climb the 700 m of ascent. This is another Endurancelife event known for its friendly, supportive atmosphere.
Race the Train
Tywyn (Wales), 17 August 2024
Events: 14 miles (22.5 km), 6.2 miles (10 km), 5.5 miles (8.9 km), 3.3 miles (5.3 km)
This is a brilliantly fun and unique event organised by the Tywyn Rotary Club. The full length race follows the Talyllyn Railway from Tywyn to Abergynolwyn and back, with the aim of the game being to get back to Tywyn before the train (1 hour and 47 minutes). The shorter events race the train from various points further along the route. The course is tough, and follows a mixture of public roads, lanes, tracks, agricultural land, and rough grazing pastures. It's a great day out for the whole family, with races for children, animations, and you can even get a place in one of the race trains to watch the runners as they battle along the course!
Dig Deep Peak District Trail Races
Sheffield (England), 28-29 September 2024
Events: 50 miles (80 km), 30 miles (50 km), half marathon, 10 km
This is a wonderful event that manages to showcase the haunting beauty of the Peak District. You’ll visit the famous gritstone crags of Burbage and Stanage, cross over moorland, and wind your way through many beautiful villages. With four different race distances, you’ll be sure to find the perfect course for you.
The Serpent Trail
Surrey (England), 6 July 2024
Events: 100 km, 50 km, 20 km, 10 km
The Serpent Trail is a 64-mile-long distance footpath in the South Downs National Park that runs from Haslemere to Petersfield. The 100k Ultra race covers the full length of the Serpent Trail, through glades, copse, fields, and heathland in the Wealden Greensand Hills. The 50-, 20-, and 10-kilometre routes take you along the southern section of the trail to Petersfield. This part of the Serpent Trail has smaller hills and lower-level sandy trails and paths.
The Ben Nevis Race
Fort William (Scotland), 7 September 2024
Event: 14 km
The history of hill running on Ben Nevis dates back to 1895, when William Swan, a barber from Fort William, made the first recorded timed ascent and descent of the mountain. The Ben Nevis Race has been run in its current form since 1937 and is believed to be the oldest trail race in the world. Don’t be deceived by the short distance of the course; this race is tough with its 1340 m of ascent and technical descent. The climb is worth it, though, because the views from the top are some of the most spectacular in Scotland.
Pushing your limits
If you’re looking to push your body to its limits, the following events are sure to make you spend some time in your pain cave.
Spine Race
Edale (England), 16 June 2024
Event: 268 miles (431 km)
This is widely regarded as “Britain’s Most Brutal” endurance race. The Montane Summer Spine is a non-stop, 268-mile race along the Pennine Way. Runners have a time limit of 156 hours to make their way from Edale in Derbyshire all the way to Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders. The race is unsupported and will test your physical resilience and mental fortitude. The Montane Winter Spine takes place at the beginning of January and follows the same route.
Ultra-Trail Snowdonia
Llanberis (Wales), 10–12 May 2024
Events: 168 km, 100 km, 50 km, 25 km
These courses follow highly technical trails up and around Wales’ highest peak, with breathtaking views over the surrounding valleys. These races are tough! The 168 km packs in an impressive 9500 m of elevation, and even the 25 km race manages to fit in 1300 m of climbing.
This is the UK’s only UTMB World Series event, and places are highly sought after. You still have time to snatch up a charity spot if you want to race this year.
What is trail running and why is it so popular?
Trail running is defined as any run on uneven terrain away from paved surfaces.
Trail running is a simple way of reconnecting with nature in an ever-more-frantic world. All you need to get started is a pair of trainers and a path to run along.
The UK is a wonderful place to explore, and there are trails absolutely everywhere. Trail running will help you discover hidden gems right on your doorstep and stunning landscapes further afield.
The trail community is exceptionally welcoming and is becoming increasingly inclusive as a wider range of runners joins its ranks. Races tend to focus on having fun and the overall experience rather than who gets to the finish first, which can come as a welcome relief to runners looking to escape the pressure of road races.
Increased interest in trail running has led to more media coverage. Stars such as Jasmin Parris, Courtney Dauwalter, and Kilian Jornet are becoming household names and inspiring a whole new generation of runners.
Take your pick
Rain or shine, the trails are a source of joy to so many. Taking part in a race can help you push yourself further, meet people, or discover a new part of the country.
Now that you’ve seen what’s on offer, all you have to do is take your pick and get training!
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