The Best Trail Runs in the UK

If you’re looking for races that offer adventure, variety, and unforgettable scenery, trail running is hard to beat. From winding woodland paths and rolling hills to rugged mountain terrain and dramatic coastal routes, trail races showcase the very best of the UK’s landscapes - and no two courses ever feel the same.

Trail races come in all shapes and sizes, spanning everything from short, accessible distances to epic endurance challenges. Whether you’re new to trail running or a seasoned off-road runner looking for your next goal, there’s a race to suit every level and ambition. In this guide, we’ve focused on the most popular and widely raced trail distances, splitting our picks into four key sections: 10K, half marathon, marathon, and ultra.

Inside, you’ll find a curated selection of the best trail races in the UK - from runnable countryside routes to iconic mountain challenges and legendary long-distance events. And if you’re new to the trails, you can click here for tips on trail running. 

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10km Trail Runs

1. Maverick X-Series Short Course (various locations, UK)

When: Multiple dates across the year
Where: Various UK locations
Distance: Typically ~11km (varies by venue)
Elevation gain: Varies by location but generally falls between 200-450 meters
Number of participants: Varies by location/year
Average price: ~£10-£39
Official website: Maverick Race
Training plans: Grab your training plan 

The Maverick X-Series Short Course is all about fun, flowy trail running with just enough bite to keep things interesting. Set in some of the UK’s best trail locations, these races mix woodland paths, rolling hills, and wide runnable tracks that suit both newer trail runners and those wanting to push the pace.

With excellent organisation, a friendly vibe, and multiple events across the year, it’s a great way to experience trail racing without committing to a longer distance.
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2. EnduranceLife Coastal Trail 10-12km (various locations, UK)

When: Multiple event dates throughout the year
Where: Various UK coastal venues (e.g., Dorset/Swanage; Suffolk/Dunwich; etc.) 
Distance: 10-12km
Elevation gain: Varies by location but expect roughly 150-300m
Number of participants: Varies, but expect around 100-200 runners
Average price: Typically £35 for the 10K
Official website: EnduranceLife 
Training plans: Grab your training plan

The EnduranceLife Coastal Trail races deliver a stunning run along some of the UK’s most dramatic coastline. Expect clifftop paths, sea views, and constantly changing terrain that keeps the course engaging from start to finish.

These events feel adventurous without being intimidating, making them ideal if you want a scenic challenge that’s as much about the experience as the finish time.
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3. Salomon Skyline Short (Fort William, Scotland)

‍When: Mid September 
Where: Nevis Range, near Fort William 
Distance: ~10K 
Elevation gain: ~170–185m+
Number of participants: 2000+
Average price: £40 entry fee 
Official website: Skyline Scotland
Training plans: Grab your training plan

The Salomon Skyline Short offers a taste of mountain trail running in one of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes. Set at the Nevis Range near Fort William, the route combines forest trails, open hillsides, and big Highland views in a compact but rewarding course.

It’s a brilliant introduction to mountain-style trail racing - challenging enough to feel special, but still accessible if you’re stepping up from gentler trails.
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4. North Downs 50, 10km loop option (Surrey Hills, England)

‍When: Early August
Where: Loseley Park, Guildford 
Distance: 10km (Guildford Basecamp Loop) 
Elevation gain: ~230m
Number of participants: Around 2000 total participants
Average price: £39 
Official website: Ultra challenge - North Downs 50
Training plans: Grab your training plan

The North Downs Trail 10km is a classic Surrey Hills trail run, featuring chalky paths, woodland tracks, and rolling countryside just outside London. The course strikes a nice balance between runnable sections and steady climbs, making it a satisfying challenge without feeling overwhelming.

With a well-marked route and a relaxed event atmosphere, it’s a great option if you want a scenic trail race that still feels manageable at the 10km distance.
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5. Helvellyn Trail Short (Lake District, England)

When: End of October
Where: Glenridding (Ullswater), Lake District 
‍Distance: 10km 
Elevation gain: ~270m
Number of participants: Around 900+
Average price: £15-£32 
Official website: Lakeland Trails (Helvellyn) 
Training plans: Grab your training plan

The Helvellyn Trail Short packs a lot of Lake District magic into a 10km course. Starting near Ullswater, the route weaves through rugged trails and open fell terrain, offering classic Lakeland scenery and a real sense of adventure.

It’s a tougher 10km than most, but the supportive atmosphere and incredible views make every climb feel worth it - perfect if you’re ready to test yourself on proper mountain trails.

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Half Marathon Trail Runs

1. Snowdonia Trail Half Marathon (Eryri, Wales)

‍When: Mid July
Where: Coed y Brenin Forest Park, Eryri (Snowdonia), Wales
Distance: 21.1km (Half Marathon)
Elevation gain: ~1,300m
Number of participants: Around 1,000-1,500
Average price: £45-£55
Official website: Always Aim High Events
Training plans: Grab your training plan

The Snowdonia Trail Half Marathon is a spectacular mountain trail race set in the heart of Eryri National Park. The route winds through forest tracks, rocky mountain paths, and open hillside trails, delivering big climbs, technical sections, and unforgettable views throughout.

This is a challenging but incredibly rewarding half marathon, best suited to runners looking for a proper test on rugged terrain. With expert organisation, a buzzing race village, and one of the most dramatic backdrops in UK trail running, it’s a true bucket-list event for trail runners.
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2. Beachy Head Trail Half Marathon (Eastbourne, England)

When: Late October
Where: Eastbourne, East Sussex (South Downs National Park)
Distance: 21.1km (Half Marathon)
Elevation gain: ~650m
Number of participants: Around 1,500-2,000
Average price: £40-£50
Official website: Beachy Head Marathon
Training plans: Grab your training plan

The Beachy Head Trail Half Marathon is a classic South Downs race, known for its rolling chalk trails, coastal paths, and iconic cliff-top views. Starting in Eastbourne, the route takes you along open ridgelines and countryside tracks with constant sea views that make every climb feel worthwhile.

Challenging but highly runnable, this half marathon is ideal for runners looking to step up to a tougher trail race without venturing into mountain terrain. With a brilliant atmosphere, excellent organisation, and some of the best scenery in southern England, it’s a firm favourite on the UK trail calendar.
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3. Glencoe Half Marathon (Glencoe, Scotland)

When: Mid September
Where: Glencoe, Scottish Highlands
Distance: 21.1km (Half Marathon)
Elevation gain: ~500m
Number of participants: Around 1,000-1,500
Average price: £45-£55
Official website: Glencoe Marathon
Training plans: Grab your training plan

The Glencoe Half Marathon is one of the most scenic trail races in the UK, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Scottish Highlands. The route follows a mix of trail paths, estate tracks, and open glen running, with towering mountains and wide valleys surrounding you for the entire course.

Challenging without being overly technical, this half marathon is ideal for runners who want a big-mountain feel in a highly runnable race. With a friendly atmosphere, excellent organisation, and truly unforgettable scenery, it’s a standout event for anyone looking to experience trail running at its most spectacular.
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4. South Devon Trail Half Marathon (Devon Coast, England)

When: End of January
Where: South Devon Coast, England
Distance: 21.1km (Half Marathon)
Elevation gain: ~800-900m
Number of participants: Around 300-600
Average price: £45-£55
Official website: Endurance Life
Training plans: Grab your training plan

The EnduranceLife South Devon Trail Half Marathon offers a stunning coastal run along one of the most dramatic sections of the South West Coast Path. Expect clifftop trails, rolling hills, and constantly changing terrain, with sea views that stretch out almost the entire way.

This is a challenging but incredibly scenic half marathon, perfect for runners who enjoy a mix of adventure and atmosphere rather than chasing a fast time. With a friendly, community feel and impeccable organisation, it delivers a memorable trail racing experience in a truly beautiful coastal setting.
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‍5. Exmoor Trail Half Marathon (Exmoor National Park, England)

When: Autumn (typically October)
Where: Exmoor National Park, England
Distance: 21.1km (Half Marathon)
Elevation gain: ~750-850m
Number of participants: Around 300-600
Average price: £40–£50
Official website: Endurance Life
Training plans: Grab your training plan

The Exmoor Trail Half Marathon is a beautifully varied race set in the heart of Exmoor National Park. The route weaves through woodland trails, rolling moorland, river valleys, and open countryside, offering constantly changing scenery that keeps the miles engaging.

Challenging but incredibly rewarding, this half marathon is ideal for runners who want a proper trail experience without extreme technical terrain. With a friendly, low-key atmosphere and some of the most unspoilt landscapes in southern England, it’s a standout option for runners who value scenery as much as the challenge.
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6. South Downs Trail Half Marathon - Seven Sisters area (East Sussex, England)

When: Early/mid November
Where: Seven Sisters Country Park, East Sussex (South Downs National Park)
Distance: 21.1km (Half Marathon)
Elevation gain: ~700-800m
Number of participants: Around 300-800
Average price: £35-£45
Official website: UK Running Events
Training plans: Grab your training plan

The South Downs Trail Half Marathon in the Seven Sisters area is a stunning coastal trail race, taking in some of the most iconic landscapes in southern England. The route winds along chalk cliffs, rolling ridgelines, and open countryside, with sweeping sea views that make it one of the most scenic half marathons in the UK.

It’s a challenging but highly runnable course, ideal for runners looking to test themselves on classic trail terrain without extreme technical sections. With a relaxed atmosphere, excellent organisation, and unforgettable views throughout, it’s a standout choice for anyone wanting a truly special South Downs trail experience.

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Marathon Trail Runs

1. Snowdonia Trail Marathon (Eryri, Wales)

When: Mid July
Where: Coed y Brenin Forest Park, Eryri (Snowdonia), Wales
Distance: 42.2km (Marathon)
Elevation gain: ~2,300-2,500m
Number of participants: Around 1,000-1,500
Average price: £55-£65
Official website: Always Aim High Events
Training plans: Grab your training plan

The Snowdonia Trail Marathon is a spectacular mountain trail race set in the heart of Eryri National Park. The route weaves through forest tracks, rocky mountain paths, and exposed hillside trails, delivering relentless climbs, technical sections, and truly epic views throughout.

This is a demanding but incredibly rewarding marathon, best suited to runners looking for a serious mountain challenge. With expert organisation, a buzzing race village, and one of the most dramatic backdrops in UK trail running, it’s a true bucket-list event for experienced trail runners.

2. White Peak Marathon Festival (Derbyshire, England)

When: Mid May
Where: Bakewell, Derbyshire (Peak District National Park)
Distance: 42.2km (Marathon)
Elevation gain: ~1,800-2,000m
Number of participants: Around 300-600
Average price: £30-£40
Official website: Mathloc Athletic Club
Training plans: Grab your training plan

The White Peak Marathon is a classic trail and fell-style race set in the heart of the Peak District. The route winds through limestone valleys, rolling hills, and remote countryside, combining rocky trails, grassy climbs, and fast descents that make it feel rugged and traditional throughout.

This is a tough but deeply rewarding marathon, ideal for runners who enjoy old-school trail racing and varied terrain. With its friendly, low-key atmosphere and stunning Peak District scenery, it’s a standout choice for those looking for a challenging and authentic off-road marathon experience.
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3. Langdale Marathon (Lake District, England)

When: Mid October
Where: Great Langdale, Lake District National Park, England
Distance: 42.2km (Marathon)
Elevation gain: ~1,600-1,800m
Number of participants: Around 300-600
Average price: £35-£45
Official website: Lakeland Roads
Training plans: Grab your training plan

The Langdale Marathon is a classic fell-style marathon set in the heart of the Lake District. The route winds through rugged valleys, steep mountain passes, and remote trails, delivering continuous climbing, technical descents, and some of the most dramatic scenery in the Lakes.

This is a tough, traditional off-road marathon best suited to experienced trail and fell runners. With its low-key atmosphere, challenging terrain, and stunning mountain backdrop, the Langdale Marathon is a true rite of passage for runners looking for an authentic Lake District marathon experience.
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4. Yorkshire Three Peaks Marathon (Yorkshire Dales, England)

When: Late April
Where: Horton-in-Ribblesdale, Yorkshire Dales National Park, England
Distance: 42.2km (Marathon)
Elevation gain: ~1,600-1,700m
Number of participants: Around 800-1,200
Average price: £30-£40
Official website: Three Peaks Race
Training plans: Grab your training plan

The Yorkshire Three Peaks Marathon is one of the UK’s most iconic fell-style races, tackling the famous trio of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough. The route combines rocky climbs, exposed ridgelines, and rough trail sections, offering a true test of endurance and mountain running ability.

This is a demanding and traditional off-road marathon, best suited to experienced trail and fell runners who are comfortable on technical terrain. With a long history, a passionate running community, and unforgettable Yorkshire Dales scenery, it’s a bucket-list event for anyone drawn to classic British fell racing.

5. Cheddar Gorge Marathon (Somerset, England)

When: Mid June
Where: Cheddar, Somerset (Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty)
Distance: 42.2km (Marathon)
Elevation gain: ~1,400–1,600m
Number of participants: Around 300–700
Average price: £40–£50
Official website: Relish Running Races
Training plans: Grab your training plan

The Cheddar Gorge Marathon is a tough and scenic trail marathon set in the dramatic landscape of the Mendip Hills. The route weaves through limestone gorges, woodland trails, and open plateau paths, delivering steep climbs, fast descents, and constantly changing terrain throughout.

This is a challenging but rewarding off-road marathon, ideal for runners who enjoy varied trail conditions and sustained climbing rather than high mountain exposure. With its iconic setting, friendly atmosphere, and rugged scenery, the Cheddar Gorge Marathon offers a distinctive and memorable trail marathon experience.

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Ultramarathon Trail Runs

1. Montane Lakeland 50 and 100 (Lake District, England)

When: Late July
Where: Coniston, Lake District National Park, England
Distance: 50 miles or 100 miles
Elevation gain: ~3,100m (50) or ~6,300m (100)
Number of participants: Around 1,500-2,000 across both events
Average price: ~£95-£120 (50) or ~£180-£200 (100)
Official website: Lakeland 100
Training plans: Grab your training plan

The Montane Lakeland 50 and 100 are two of the UK’s most iconic ultra-distance trail races, set in the heart of the Lake District. Starting and finishing in Coniston, the routes take in rugged mountain passes, rocky trails, steep climbs, and remote valleys, offering a true test of endurance in classic Lakeland terrain.

The 50-mile race is a tough but achievable step up for runners moving into longer ultras, while the 100-mile event is a full-scale mountain challenge for experienced ultra runners. With world-class organisation, an electric race atmosphere, and some of the most spectacular scenery in the UK, the Lakeland 50 and 100 are bucket-list events for anyone serious about trail and ultra running.
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2. Race to the Stones (Ridgeway, England)

When: Mid July
Where: The Ridgeway National Trail, England (Oxfordshire to Wiltshire)
Distance: 50km or 100km
Elevation gain: ~900-1,000m (50km) or ~1,800-2,000m (100km)
Number of participants: Around 2,000-3,000 across both distances
Average price: ~£95-£115 (50km) or ~£155-£175 (100km)
Official website: Threshold Trail Series
Training plans: Grab your training plan

Race to the Stones is one of the UK’s most popular and accessible ultra-distance trail events, following the historic Ridgeway National Trail. The route runs along wide, runnable tracks and open countryside, making it ideal for runners stepping up to their first ultra-distance race.

The 50km option offers a challenging but achievable introduction to ultra running, while the 100km distance provides a full-day endurance test without highly technical terrain. With excellent organisation, a festival-style atmosphere, and supportive checkpoints throughout, Race to the Stones is a standout choice for runners looking for a well-supported and welcoming ultra experience.
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3. The Spine Race (Pennine Way, England/Scotland)

When: Winter (January) and Summer (June/September events)
Where: Pennine Way, England to Scotland
Distance: 46 miles - 268 miles (various race options)
Elevation gain: ~2,500m+ to 10,000m+ (depending on distance)
Number of participants: Around 150-200 across events
Average price: ~£500-£1,800 (varies by distance and event)
Official website: The Spine Race
Training plans: Grab your training plan

The Spine Race is one of the most demanding ultra-distance challenges in the world, following sections or the full length of the Pennine Way from England into Scotland. The route takes runners across remote moorland, exposed ridgelines, and mountainous terrain, with conditions ranging from harsh winter weather to long, runnable summer days depending on the event.

These races are designed for highly experienced ultra runners, requiring strong endurance, resilience, and self-sufficiency. With its legendary status, uncompromising nature, and epic scale, The Spine Race represents the ultimate test of physical and mental strength in UK ultra running.

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4. The Wall Ultramarathon (Carlisle, England)

When: Mid June
Where: Hadrian’s Wall, England (Carlisle to Newcastle)
Distance: 70 miles
Elevation gain: ~1,300-1,500m
Number of participants: Around 600-1,000
Average price: £140-£170
Official website: Rat Race Events
Training plans: Grab your training plan

The Wall Ultramarathon is a classic point-to-point ultra that follows the historic line of Hadrian’s Wall across northern England. The route combines rolling trail, grassy paths, and open countryside, with wide skies, Roman landmarks, and long runnable sections that make the miles feel surprisingly smooth.

Challenging but highly accessible as far as ultras go, this race is ideal for runners stepping up to their first long-distance event. With excellent organisation, well-spaced checkpoints, and a supportive atmosphere throughout, The Wall offers a memorable and rewarding introduction to ultra-distance trail running.
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5. Ultra-Trail Snowdonia by UTMB

When: Mid May
Where: Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, Wales
Distance: Multiple ultra distances (including 56km, 104km & 164km)
Elevation gain: ~3,300m+ (50km) / significantly higher for longer distances
Number of participants: Around 2,000-3,000 across all events
Average price: ~£150-£200+ (varies by distance)
Official website: Ultra-Trail Snowdonia by UTMB
Training plans: Grab your training plan

Ultra-Trail Snowdonia by UTMB is one of the UK’s premier mountain ultra events, set in the heart of Eryri National Park. The routes tackle steep climbs, technical trails, and rugged mountain terrain, delivering relentless elevation and some of the most dramatic scenery in British trail running.

This is a serious ultra challenge best suited to experienced runners, with demanding courses that reward strong hill fitness and confident trail skills. With world-class organisation, a buzzing international atmosphere, and true mountain conditions, Ultra-Trail Snowdonia is a bucket-list event for runners looking to test themselves on iconic UK terrain.
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6. Cape Wrath 100 and Ultra (Scottish Highlands, Scotland)

When: Mid-Late May
Where: Scottish Highlands, Scotland
Distance: 100 miles (Cape Wrath 100) or 400km multi-stage (Cape Wrath Ultra)
Elevation gain: ~6,000m+ (100) or significantly higher across stages
Number of participants: Around 150-250 across both events
Average price: ~£1,000+ (100) / ~£4,000+ (Ultra)
Official website: Cape Wrath Ultra
Training plans: Grab your training plan

The Cape Wrath 100 and Cape Wrath Ultra are among the most remote and demanding ultra events in the UK, traversing the wildest sections of the Scottish Highlands. The routes pass through rugged mountains, remote glens, river crossings, and exposed terrain, offering a true expedition-style racing experience.

These races are designed for highly experienced ultra runners who are comfortable with self-sufficiency and challenging conditions. With minimal road sections, dramatic landscapes, and an intense sense of isolation, Cape Wrath delivers an unforgettable test of endurance, resilience, and mental strength in one of the most spectacular environments in the world.

7. 13 Valleys Ultra 180km (Lake District, England)

When: Late September
Where: Lake District National Park, England
Distance: 180km (Ultramarathon)
Elevation gain: ~6,000m+
Number of participants: Around 200–400
Average price: ~£250–£300
Official website: 13 Valleys Ultra
Training plans: Grab your training plan

The 13 Valleys Ultra is a unique single-stage ultramarathon that takes runners through every major valley in the Lake District. The route links rugged trails, mountain passes, and remote landscapes, offering a continuous journey through some of the most iconic terrain in British trail running.

Designed for experienced ultra runners, this event balances long runnable sections with sustained climbing and technical trail. With its point-to-point format, outstanding organisation, and unforgettable Lake District scenery, the 13 Valleys Ultra delivers a demanding yet deeply rewarding ultra-distance experience.

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Train For Your Next Trail Run with Runna

Trail running is about more than just covering the distance - it’s about building strength, confidence, and the skills to handle changing terrain. From short trail races to mountain marathons and ultra-distance events, the right preparation can make all the difference to how strong and confident you feel on race day.

That’s where Runna comes in. Our app creates personalized training plans that adapt to your current fitness, running experience, and goals. You’ll get structured guidance for every session, including easy runs, hill workouts, long runs, strength training, and recovery - all designed to help you handle trails safely and efficiently.

You can even select your specific trail race inside the app and receive a plan tailored to the terrain, elevation, and distance of your event.

Download Runna, your number-one running coaching app, and start training for your next trail race today. Your first week is free.