Top 50 Endurance Events of 2016

50 of the best fitness challenges you can face in the UK in 2016

It’s the start of a new year, which means there’s no better time to dust off your trainers, throw away the leftover Christmas food and begin your new fitness regime. Many people choose ‘getting fit’ as a New Year’s resolution – and what better way to show off your newfound skills than by competing in an endurance event or two?

For those who are already fitness fanatics, the new year might simply be about entering more races or improving your strength and stamina. Our pick of the top 50 UK endurance events will see you battling through mud, swimming in open water, and running up mountains – and that’s just the start of it. So go on, make 2016 the year you enter an endurance race. Here are our favourites.

 

January

The Spine Race

  • Date: 9 – 16 January 2016
  • Location: Edale, Derbyshire
  • Type of Event: Ultramarathon
  • Description: Put your stamina to the test on one of Britain’s most challenging National Trails, the Pennine Way. At 268 miles long, you’ll need to pace yourself as you’ll be competing in extreme weather conditions such as bogs, ice, strong winds and driving rain on this non-stop, week-long race.
  • Skill Level: Experienced runners
  • Find out more: http://thespinerace.com/spine-race-3/

Strathpuffer 24

  • Date: 23 – 24 January 2016
  • Location: Strathpeffer, Scottish Highlands
  • Type of Event: Cycle Race
  • Description: Are you ready for the 11th annual Strathpuffer? This 24-hour race attracts keen mountain bikers from the world over and is open to solo entrants, pairs and teams of four. Be prepared for all manner of weather, from deep snow and gales to sunshine. Dubbed one of the 10 most challenging mountain bike events, you’ll need to have some skills.
  • Skill Level: Experienced
  • Find out more: http://www.strathpuffer.co.uk/home

Tough Guy

  • Date: 31 January 2016
  • Location: Tettenhall Horse Sanctuary, South Perton Farm WV6 7HB
  • Type of Event: Mud Run
  • Description: Battle your way through over 200 obstacles on this 15km course. You’ll be forced to face your fears and your strength and agility will be put to the test every step of the way. All entrants receive a T-shirt and medal to wear with pride upon completion.
  • Skill Level: All levels – entrants must be over 18; 16 and 17 year olds can compete if accompanied by an adult
  • Find out more: http://www.toughguy.co.uk/#!tough-guy/cn36

 

February

The Pilgrim Challenge

  • Date: 6 – 7 February 2016
  • Location: Sandy Farm Business Park, Farnham GU10 1PX
  • Type of Event: Ultramarathon
  • Description: Follow the North Downs Way National Trail on The Pilgrim Challenge, passing through 66 miles of stunning countryside and areas of outstanding natural beauty. With excellent markings along the way, there’s also a fully-qualified medical crew on hand to administer first aid. There are three start groups to choose from based on your ability so you can make it as challenging as you like.
  • Skill Level: All levels
  • Find out more: http://www.xnrg.co.uk/events/details/the-pilgrim-challenge-2016.aspx

 

March

Vertical Rush

  • Date: 8 March 2016
  • Location: Tower 42, London
  • Type of Event: Stair Climb
  • Description: Put your fitness to the test and see how quickly you can run up Tower 42. Consisting of 932 steps over 42 floors, it’ll certainly give you a head rush. Entrants can compete solo or in a team of five.
  • Skill Level: All levels
  • Find out more: http://england.shelter.org.uk/support_us/events/charity_challenge/vertical_rush

The Royal British Legion Major North

  • Date: 20 March 2016
  • Location: Bramham Park, Leeds LS23 6LT
  • Type of Event: Mud Run
  • Description: New and improved, The Royal British Legion Major North is a challenge like no other. Take on a series of epic military obstacle zones, filled with smoke, explosions, music and smells, along the 5km and 10km mud-filled courses – all with the help of 40 of the Major’s finest troops. Accept your mission and report for duty.
  • Skill Level: All levels – beginners may prefer to try the 5km
  • Find out more: https://www.britmilfit.com/major-series/events/north/

 

April

Wolf Run

  • Date: 9 – 10 April 2016
  • Location: Welsh Road Farm, Warwickshire
  • Type of Event: Mud Run
  • Description: Are you wild enough to take on the Wolf Run? Combining trail running and mud running, you’ll tackle obstacles across various terrain including woodland, open ground, thick mud and lakes. It’s gruelling both physically and mentally, designed to test your skill, strength and stamina.
  • Skill Level: All levels but some training will be required – over 18s only
  • Find out more: http://thewolfrun.com/

London Marathon

  • Date: 24 April 2016
  • Location: London
  • Type of Event: Marathon
  • Description: Will you be one of the 38,000 runners in this year’s London Marathon? If so, you’ll be in good company. Whether you’re running for charity or simply to beat your own personal best, join in the fun and soak up the electric atmosphere. Be sure to check out the training plans and advice to ensure you’re well prepared for the event.
  • Skill Level: Good level of fitness required

Find out more: https://www.virginmoneylondonmarathon.com/en-gb/how-to-enter/

The Isle of Wight Challenge

  • Date: 30 April – 1 May 2016
  • Location: Isle of Wight
  • Type of Event: Ultramarathon – Walk, Jog or Run
  • Description: Put your stamina to the test with the Isle of Wight Challenge. With Quarter, Half and Full Island Challenges on offer, how far will you push yourself? Our 106km Full Challenge can be completed over the course of two days with camping on offer at the half way stage. Enjoy stunning scenery and free food and drink along the way on this fully-supported event. Although we recommend some training, you’re welcome to walk, jog or run.
  • Skill Level: All levels
  • Find out more: http://www.isleofwightchallenge.com/

 

May

Great Birmingham 10K

  • Date: 1 May 2016
  • Location: Birmingham City Centre
  • Type of Event: 10K Run
  • Description: Whether you’re a beginner or you’ve run lots of 10K races, you’ll find the Great Birmingham 10K a little different. That’s because the starting waves will consist of a different musical era. With music playing from the 70s, 80s, 90s and 00s, there’s something to suit all tastes. So dust off those trainers and get running.
  • Skill Level: All levels
  • Find out more: http://www.greatrun.org/great-birmingham-10k

London Revolution

  • Date: 14 – 15 May 2016
  • Location: London
  • Type of Event: Cycle Race
  • Description: Do you have the strength and the stamina needed to complete the full 185-mile loop around London? Pass iconic landmarks as you cycle one of the UK’s best-supported events. You can even indulge in a hot shower and a yoga class as the half-way point!
  • Skill Level: All levels
  • Find out more: http://www.london-revolution.com/

Thames Bridges Bike Ride

  • Date: Mid May (TBC) 2016
  • Location: Southwark Park, London SE16 2EH
  • Type of Event: Cycle Race
  • Description: Join 2,000 other cyclists on this challenge and do your bit for stroke survivors. Choose from three routes: 8-mile family route, 34-mile classic or 50-mile extended. You’ll cross 16 of the Thames bridges, passing some of the capital’s top landmarks along the way.
  • Skill Level: All levels
  • Find out more: https://www.stroke.org.uk/fundraising/annual-fundraising-events/thames-bridges-bike-ride

Endurancelife – Jurassic Quarter

  • Date: 21 May 2016
  • Location: Portland Bill Lighthouse, Portland, Dorset DT5 2JT
  • Type of Event: Ultramarathon
  • Description: New for 2016, The Jurassic Quarter route stretches 46 miles along the South West Coast Path. This non-stop event can be entered on an individual basis or as part of a relay team of two or four people. With many steep climbs and tough descents along the way, it’s not one for the faint hearted, and will test runners’ physical and mental strength.
  • Skill Level: Solo entrants – experienced; Teams – competitive
  • Find out more: http://www.endurancelife.com/event-new.asp?series=89

Tough Mudder – Midlands

  • Date: 21 – 22 May 2016
  • Location: Belvoir Castle, Grantham NG32 1PE
  • Type of Event: Mud Run
  • Description: Packed with challenges designed to get your adrenaline pumping and your body covered in mud, they don’t call it Tough Mudder for nothing. Your physical and mental strength will be tested over 12 miles of difficult obstacles. Of course, camaraderie is what makes this event fun so get together with your mates and sign up as a team.
  • Skill Level: All levels – some training will be required
  • Find out more: https://toughmudder.co.uk/events/2016-midlands

Great Manchester Run – 10K

  • Date: 22 May 2016
  • Location: Portland Street, Manchester
  • Type of Event: 10K Run
  • Description: Don’t miss this year’s Great Manchester Run. Broadcast live on BBC, this is a fun event for the whole family to join in. You’ll pass some of the city’s most iconic places of interest, including Old Trafford. With a whole weekend of events for all abilities, there’s something for everyone.
  • Skill Level: All levels
  • Find out more: http://www.greatrun.org/great-manchester-run

The Forces March

  • Date: 25 – 29 May 2016
  • Location: Ilfracombe, North Devon
  • Type of Event: 5 Ultramarathons in 5 Days
  • Description: The Forces March is one of the nation’s top endurance events. Covering more than 139 miles, participants will be expected to complete the equivalent of five ultramarathons in just five days. Hill training is essential as this challenge can be extremely gruelling.
  • Skill Level: Experienced runners
  • Find out more: http://www.forcesmarch.org.uk/

London 2 Brighton Challenge

  • Date: 28 – 29 May 2016
  • Location: Richmond, West London
  • Type of Event: Ultramarathon – Walk, Jog or Run
  • Description: Starting from Richmond, West London, you’ll cover 100km of trails and paths that lead you to Brighton. This event is open to people of all abilities and can be run, jogged or walked. 56km and 44km ‘Half Challenge’ options are available as well as a 2-day Full Challenge (56km on Saturday, sleep, 44km on Sunday). Finishers will receive a T-shirt, medal and glass of fizz. Participants must be over 16 years old.
  • Skill Level: All levels – some training required
  • Find out more: http://www.london2brightonchallenge.com/

Rock N Roll Marathon Liverpool

  • Date: 28 – 29 May 2016
  • Location: Albert Dock, Liverpool
  • Type of Event: Marathon
  • Description: Starting on the Liverpool Waterfront, you’ll wind your way around the city passing iconic landmarks as you go, until you reach the Liverpool Echo Arena finish line. There are also half marathon and 5K options available for those who find a marathon a little daunting.
  • Skill Level: All levels
  • Find out more: http://www.runrocknroll.com/liverpool

June

The South Downs Trail Challenge

  • Date: 4 June 2016
  • Location: Kemp Town, Brighton, East Sussex
  • Type of Event: Marathon
  • Description: Run, walk or jog your way along the South Downs Way National Trail from Brighton to Eastbourne and raise money for Type-I diabetes. Enjoy stunning coastal scenery as you make your way through the crowds of supporters. You can enter as an individual or as a team – it’s your choice.
  • Skill Level: All levels
  • Find out more: https://jdrf.org.uk/event/south-downs-trail-challenge/

Blenheim Palace Triathlon

  • Date: 4 – 5 June 2016
  • Location: Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire
  • Type of Event: Triathlon
  • Description: Back for its 12th year, participants can choose from five distance options, including Sprint, Sprint Team Relay, Super Sprint, Adult & Junior, and Youth. Compete in either mixed or single sex waves to see if you’ll be crowned this year’s winner.
  • Skill Level: Experienced athletes – participants must be at least 17 years old
  • Find out more: http://www.theblenheimtriathlon.com/

Highlander Mountain Marathon

  • Date: 4 – 5 June 2016
  • Location: Scottish Highlands
  • Type of Event: Mountain Run
  • Description: Pack your compass and map because you’ll need to navigate your way through six strenuous courses crossing the summits of Munros. While strenuous, the spectacular Scottish Highland scenery will more than make up for it.
  • Skill Level: Experienced mountain runners
  • Find out more: http://www.lamm.co.uk/

Great North Swim

  • Date: 10 – 12 June 2016
  • Location: Windermere, Lake District
  • Type of Event: Swim
  • Description: Join 10,000 participants as you take part in the largest open water swimming event in Europe. Taking place in picturesque Windermere, there are two new 10K challenges for 2016. With events for all abilities, why not get the whole family involved.
  • Skill Level: All levels
  • Find out more: http://www.greatrun.org/great-swim/great-north-swim

Eroica Britannia

  • Date: 17 – 19 June 2016
  • Location: Bakewell, Peak District
  • Type of Event: 100-mile Cycle
  • Description: Polish your bike and join nearly 4,000 riders for a Great British adventure. Dressing in pre-1987 finery is encouraged on this Peak District bike tour. Sample local food and drink at the many ‘Feast Stops’ along the way and enjoy exploring the stunning countryside.
  • Skill Level: All levels
  • Find out more: http://eroicabritannia.co.uk/the-ride

Rat Race – The Wall

  • Date: 18 June 2016
  • Location: Carlisle
  • Type of Event: Ultramarathon
  • Description: Do you have what it takes to run 69 miles in one day? Now in its fifth year, The Wall sees participants running from Carlisle to Newcastle through Hadrian’s Wall country. This event is fully supported and way marked. Enter as an individual or as a pair. Entrants must be 18 – 75 years old.
  • Skill Level: All levels
  • Find out more: http://ratrace.com/thewall2016

Race to the King

  • Date: 25 – 26 June 2016
  • Location: Arundel, West Sussex
  • Type of Event: Ultramarathon
  • Description: Discover the South Downs National Park in all its glory when you take part in this 52-mile ultramarathon. Open to participants of all abilities, you can walk, jog or run the distance while admiring the view.
  • Skill Level: All levels
  • Find out more: http://www.racetotheking.com/

Nightrider London

  • Date: June 2016
  • Location: London
  • Type of Event: Cycle Race
  • Description: Pass more than 50 of the capital’s top landmarks as you make your way along the 100km night-time circuit through London. Do your bit for charity at the same time and raise money for the British Heart Foundation – it’s all for a good cause.
  • Skill Level: All levels – some training required
  • Find out more: https://www.bhf.org.uk/get-involved/events/bike-rides/nightrider-london

 

July

Rat Race – The Crossing

  • Date: 1 – 3 July 2016
  • Location: Whitehaven, Cumbria
  • Type of Event: Mountain Biking
  • Description: Are you ready for three days of pure mountain biking? This event starts in Whitehaven and finishes at North Bay, Scarborough. This supported event includes several pit stops along the way where food and drink will be available. Fully way marked, you’ll head along 200 miles of spectacular tracks through the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and the North Yorkshire Moors.
  • Skill Level: All levels
  • Find out more: http://ratrace.com/crossing2016/

London 2 Cambridge Challenge

  • Date: 2 – 3 July 2016
  • Location: Olympic Park, London
  • Type of Event: Ultramarathon
  • Description: Set yourself a challenge for 2016 and enter the London 2 Cambridge Challenge, which starts from the Olympic Park in London and passes parkland, locks and open countryside for 100km to finish in Cambridge. Whether you walk, jog or run the race, you’ll be rewarded with a great sense of achievement upon completion. Participants must be over 16 years old.
  • Skill Level: All levels – some training required
  • Find out more: http://www.london2cambridgechallenge.com/

The Fan Dance – Summer Edition

  • Date: 2 – 3 July 2016
  • Location: Pen Y Fan, Brecon Beacons
  • Type of Event: Mountain Race
  • Description: Are you as fit as an SAS candidate? Show off your skills on this immensely challenging 24km race over Pen Y Fan, Brecon Beacons’ highest mountain. If you can complete this infamous route, you’ll be considered as fit as those in the Special Forces. Open to participants aged 17 – 45 years.
  • Skill Level: Experienced runners
  • Find out more: http://www.thefandancerace.com/

Vitality British 10K London Run

  • Date: 10 July 2016
  • Location: Piccadilly, London
  • Type of Event: 10K
  • Description: Pass some of London’s most iconic landmarks as you make your way along this 10km race course. You’ll run past the likes of St. James’ Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, London Eye, The Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey so there’s plenty to see along the way.
  • Skill Level: All levels
  • Find out more: http://www.thebritish10klondon.co.uk/

Race to the Stones

  • Date: 16 – 17 July 2016
  • Location: Chilterns, Oxfordshire
  • Type of Event: Ultramarathon
  • Description: Stunning views are guaranteed on this fully supported 100km ultramarathon that takes places along Britain’s oldest road, the Ridgeway. Starting from the Chilterns, you’ll race to the North Wessex Downs, an area of outstanding natural beauty, finishing at the 5,000-year-old Avebury stone circle. It’s the most popular ultramarathon in the UK so be sure to enter early. Participants must be over 16 years old. Under-18s must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Skill Level: All levels – some training required
  • Find out more: http://www.racetothestones.com/

London To Paris 24

  • Date: 16 – 18 July 2016
  • Location: Blackheath, London
  • Type of Event: Cycle Race
  • Description: 280 miles in 24 hours – that’s what you’ll be expected to complete when you enter the London To Paris 24. Race the first 90 miles to catch the ferry at Dover and cycle through the night from Calais to Paris. You can enter as an individual or in a pair – with rest stops and food available every 40 miles, as well as a night in a hotel in Paris and a celebratory dinner, this is guaranteed to be one event you’ll never forget. Participants must be over 18 years old.
  • Skill Level: Experienced cyclists
  • Find out more: http://www.london2paris24.com/

Ironman UK

  • Date: 17 July 2016
  • Location: Bolton, Lancashire
  • Type of Event: Ironman
  • Description: Take a dip in Pennington Flash before cycling the 112-mile two-loop journey through the stunning Lancashire countryside. Head to T2 at the Macron Stadium where you’ll run into Bolton’s town centre, completing three circuit loops to finish at Victoria Square just outside the Albert Hall.
  • Skill Level: Experienced athletes
  • Find out more: http://eu.ironman.com/triathlon/events/emea/ironman/uk.aspx

Cotswold Way Mighty Hike

  • Date: 23 July 2016
  • Location: Hillesley Jubilee Field & Hopkins Hall, Wotton-under-Edge
  • Type of Event: Walking Marathon
  • Description: Always wanted to do a marathon but without the running? Here’s your chance. This walking marathon takes you along the picturesque Cotswold Way, through stunning villages and past stately homes. A fully supported challenge, you’ll be provided with a free buffet lunch and hot food upon completion as well as regular free drinks and snacks at the check points en-route. Participants must be at least 17 years old. 14-year-olds and over can take part if accompanied by an adult.
  • Skill Level: All levels
  • Find out more: http://www.macmillan.org.uk/get-involved/fundraising-events/event-detail/1155/cotswoldwaymightyhike

Conti Thunder Run

  • Date: 23 – 24 July 2016
  • Location: Catton Park, Walton on Trent
  • Type of Event: Cross Country Run
  • Description: Can you beat the clock in this 24 hour off-road relay race? Available to solo entrants, pairs or teams of five or eight, your endurance, tactics, team work and speed will be put to a gruelling test. Challenging both mentally and physically, have you got what it takes? Participants must be over 18 years old.
  • Skill Level: Experienced runners
  • Find out more: http://www.tr24.co.uk/

The Lakeland 100

  • Date: 29 – 31 July 2016
  • Location: Coniston, Cumbria
  • Type of Event: Ultramarathon
  • Description: Are you lucky enough to have a place in this year’s Lakeland 100? This circular route takes you over trails and up fells, weaving through the stunning Cumbrian countryside. It’s a continuous event with the winners generally completing the course in around 23 hours. With 14 manned checkpoints along the way, you’ll be greeted by the support team who will give you food and encouragement to keep going.
  • Skill Level: Experienced ultra-distance runners
  • Find out more: http://www.lakeland100.com/

 

August

London Triathlon

  • Date: 6 – 7 August 2016
  • Location: London
  • Type of Event: Triathlon
  • Description: With a choice of four distances, including Super Sprint, Sprint, Olympic and Olympic Plus, there’s something for all abilities. Starting with a swim in the Royal Victoria Dock, you’ll then race around the London Docklands and then get on your bike to complete the course. Participants must be over 17 years old. There are youth events for 15-16 year olds.
  • Skill Level: Distances to suit all ability levels
  • Find out more: http://www.thelondontriathlon.com/

Ride 24

  • Date: 20 – 21 August 2016
  • Location: Newcastle
  • Type of Event: Cycle Race
  • Description: Ride against the clock for 310 miles from Newcastle to London with Ride 24. You’ll pass famous landmarks along the way including the Angel of the North. This non-stop challenge features seven rest stops where food and drink will be supplied. With plenty of support and encouragement en-route, all you have to do is keep pedalling.
  • Skill Level: All levels
  • Find out more: http://www.ride24hr.com/

South Coast Challenge

  • Date: 27 – 28 August 2016
  • Location: Eastbourne
  • Type of Event: Ultramarathon – Walk, Jog or Run
  • Description: With a choice of route distances (100km, 50km, 25km) you can make the South Coast Challenge as gruelling or as gentle as you like. Fully supported, there will be lots of spectators cheering you as you make your way along your chosen route from Eastbourne to Arundel. Did we mention you’ll be given a glass of fizz upon completion? Participants must be over 16 years old.
  • Skill Level: All levels – some training required
  • Find out more: http://www.southcoastchallenge.com/

 

September

THHN City To Sea

  • Date: 3 September 2016
  • Location: Exeter Quayside
  • Type of Event: Marathon or Ultramarathon
  • Description: The THHN City to Sea has a choice of challenges: a 55-mile ultramarathon (run only) or a 26.5-mile marathon which can be run or walked. The scenery is fantastic with riverside paths, country lanes, beaches, woodland and tough coastal paths, taking the participants from Exeter Quayside to Babbacome Downs, Torquay. The ultramarathon route goes via Berry Head in Brixham. All finishers receive a medal, T-shirt, and fish and chips at the finish line on Babbacome Downs, which also features a live music marquee and festival of fun. By entering, participants are helping Torquay Holiday Helpers Network Charity, which gives free fun-filled memory-making holidays to families affected by serious illness and bereavement.
  • Skill Level: All levels – some training required
  • Find out more: http://www.thhn.co.uk/city-to-sea-53-campaign/city-to-sea-53

Rat Race Coast to Coast

  • Date: 10 – 11 September 2016
  • Location: Scotland
  • Type of Event: Multi-Sport
  • Description: Cross Scotland from coast to coast with this challenging 105-mile route. Join your competitors as you run, cycle and kayak your way through stunning mountain scenery. This fully way marked route includes free half-way camping as well as hot soup, water and chocolate at the finish. You’ll be awarded a medal for completing the course – and if you still have some energy left, there’s also a post-event party.
  • Skill Level: Experienced athletes – see cut-off times
  • Find out more: http://ratrace.com/coasttocoast2016/

Thames Path Challenge

  • Date: 10 – 11 September 2016
  • Location: Putney Bridge, London
  • Type of Event: Ultramarathon
  • Description: Returning for the fifth year in a row, the Thames Path Challenge 2016 will see around 5,000 participants battling their way along the 100km route from Putney Bridge to Henley. You can run, jog or walk – it’s completely up to you. Whichever way you choose to complete the course, you’ll be guaranteed plenty of support and encouragement along the way. 100km participants must be over 16 years old.
  • Skill Level: All levels – some training required
  • Find out more: http://www.thamespathchallenge.com/

Ride Across Britain

  • Date: 10 – 18 September 2016
  • Location: Land’s End
  • Type of Event: Multi-Day Sportive
  • Description: The UK’s largest and most iconic LEJOG multi-day sportive. More than 800 cyclists ride 960 miles over nine days through some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes from barren moorlands and majestic highlands to lush green valleys, winding back lanes and stunning coastal roads, climbing a total of 15,000 metres. The ride is fully supported with overnight base camps serving delicious suppers and hearty breakfasts, medical and mechanical support, massage therapists, physiotherapists, and pit stops during the day. There will also be safety chaperones to make sure everyone is cycling safely and within the law.
  • Skill Level: All levels – some training required
  • Find out more: http://www.rideacrossbritain.com/

Great North Run

  • Date: 11 September 2016
  • Location: Newcastle
  • Type of Event: Half Marathon
  • Description: One of the most popular running events in the country, the Great North Run sees participants running for 13.1 miles from Newcastle through Gateshead and on to South Shields. With thousands of supporters en-route, the atmosphere is electric.
  • Skill Level: All levels – some training required
  • Find out more: http://www.greatrun.org/great-north-run

Ironman Wales

  • Date: 18 September 2016
  • Location: Pembrokeshire, Wales
  • Type of Event: Ironman
  • Description: Regarded as one of the hardest Ironman events for running and biking, participants will be rewarded with spectacular swimming at Tenby’s North Beach. You’ll need to train hard but with so much support and encouragement along the way, finding the motivation to carry on to the finish line is easy.
  • Skill Level: Experienced athletes
  • Find out more: http://eu.ironman.com/triathlon/events/emea/ironman/wales.aspx

Salomon Glen Coe Skyline™

  • Date: 18 September 2016
  • Location: Kinlochleven, Scotland
  • Type of Event: Mountain Running
  • Description: Do you have the skills to compete in the Salomon Glen Coe Skyline™? You’ll need serious climbing ability as you take on 53km of Skyrunning along a course which includes some of Scotland’s most challenging mountains.
  • Skill Level: Climbing experience required – entries vetted

Find out more: http://www.glencoeskyline.com/enter/

Photo ©iancorless.com

October

Rough Runner Manchester

  • Date: 15 – 16 October 2016
  • Location: Ashley Road, Altrincham, Cheshire WA14 3QA
  • Type of Event: Mud Run
  • Description: This event takes inspiration from popular TV game shows such as Gladiators, Ninja Warrior and Wipeout to bring participants some of the most challenging and fun-filled obstacles they will ever experience. There’s a choice of three distances: 5km route with 10 obstacles, 10km route with 15 obstacles, and the full 15km route with all 20 obstacles for those who want to push themselves to the max – there’s even a Travelator at the finish line! Participants must be over 16 years old.
  • Skill Level: All levels – some training required
  • Find out more: http://roughrunner.com/

The Original Mountain Marathon

  • Date: 29 – 30 October 2016
  • Location: 400sqkm of UK mountains – location released four weeks prior to event
  • Type of Event: Mountain Marathon
  • Description: An iconic UK mountain race since it first ran in 1968, and the only UK civilian event approved by the British Military for training purposes – The Original Mountain Marathon is a real test of endurance and mountain survival skills. In teams of two, you’ll choose your route via a series of checkpoints to a remote wild camp. You must carry a tent, sleeping bag, kit and enough food for two days unsupported in the UK mountains. This event is held in some of the most remote locations at a time of year when conditions can be extremely challenging.
  • Skill Level: All levels – mountain skills required, all competitors will be vetted for experience
  • Find out more: https://www.theomm.com

 

November

White Rose Ultra

  • Date: 5 – 6 November 2016
  • Location: Colne Valley, Yorkshire
  • Type of Event: Ultramarathon
  • Description: Open to participants of all abilities, there are three distances to choose from: 30, 60 or 100 miles. You can run, jog or walk – it’s completely up to you. With aid stations every 10 miles and water stations every five miles, you’ll also receive plenty of support along this way-marked route. All finishers receive a T-shirt and medal.
  • Skill Level: All levels depending on which distance you choose; 100-mile – experienced
  • Find out more: http://www.whiteroseultra.co.uk/

 

Any Time

Three Peaks Challenge

  • Date: Any time
  • Location: Ben Nevis, Scotland/ Scafell Pike, Lake District/ Snowdon
  • Type of Event: Mountain Walk
  • Description: This year, challenge yourself and your friends to climb the three highest mountains in Great Britain. There’s no set time limit to complete all three but many choose to attempt the climbs within 24 hours – how fast will you be?
  • Skill Level: All levels
  • Find out more: http://www.threepeakschallenge.uk/national-three-peaks-challenge/book-your-three-peaks-challenge

So there you have it – our top 50 UK endurance events. The question is, how many challenges are you brave enough to take on this year?

 

 


 

 

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