Bat Challenge

Bat Challenge

The Bat Challenge is a six-hour off-road event held at Beacon Hill Country Park, Lower Car Park, Leicestershire (LE12 8TA). The format allows participants to run, hike, or walk as many 3.3 mile laps as they wish within the time limit. The event begins in daylight and can include dusk and fully dark laps.

The loop climbs from the lower car park toward the trig point area for the first half and descends back to the start for the second half. The trig point is not on the marked route. Paths are mainly well maintained crushed stone; underfoot conditions may become mucky depending on the weather and the course is not technically difficult.

Distances and examples

• 3.3 mile loop per lap
• Half marathon equals 4 laps
• Marathon equals 8 laps Multiple laps can add up to distances well beyond 50 miles.

Practical details include parking paid on site (£3 for under three hours, £4 for the day) and Loughborough station approximately 6 miles away. Anyone starting a lap after 7pm must carry a head torch. Dogs are not permitted. Rucking is permitted. A GPX of the route is available and the course may be marked on race day.

Entry fees follow a tiered structure: £37 before 08/04/2026 and £42 after, with an additional £2 for unaffiliated entrants. Instead of a medal, a tree token may be offered that includes wildflower seeds and supports tree planting. The event has been held previously in 2025. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.