Bat Challenge

Woodhouse Eaves, United Kingdom • 8 May 2026

Bat Challenge : overview

The Bat Challenge is a six-hour off-road event at Beacon Hill Country Park, Leicestershire (Lower Car Park, LE12 8TA). Participants complete as many laps of a 3.3 mile loop as they wish within the time limit. The organiser offers a medal or a Big Bear Tree Token instead of a medal; the token includes wildflower seeds and results in a tree being planted.

Distances (examples)

  • 5k (one lap)
  • Half marathon (4 laps)
  • Marathon (8 laps)
  • Ultra distances (many laps; over 50 miles possible)

Course and logistics

The route climbs on the first half and descends on the second, mainly on well maintained crushed stone paths. The trig point is near the top but not on the marked route. Underfoot is generally decent but can be mucky depending on weather. A GPX file of the route is available and the course will have on-day markings.

Parking at the park is charged (£3 for under three hours, £4 for the day), payable by card or coin. The nearest train station is Loughborough, about 6 miles away. Dogs are not permitted. Rucking is allowed. Participants who start laps in darkness must carry a head torch. Entry prices are tiered (£37 early entry, £42 later; unaffiliated entrants pay £2 extra). There is an optional fundraising link with Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity; donations given through the event go 100% to the charity. The event was first held in 2025. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

5 km
3 mi
3.3 Mile off-Road Loop
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
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