Beast Of The Beacons

Beast of the Beacons 10, 20 and 40 Mile Ultra

The event offers three trail distances:

• 10 mile
• 20 mile
• 40 mile

The races start and finish at Gilestone Farm, Talybont on Usk, in the Brecon Beacons National Park on 18 April 2026. The minimum age is 16. Entry fees listed are £48 for the 10 mile, £60 for the 20 mile and £80 for the 40 mile. Entries opened 7 May 2025 and close 12 April 2026.

The route follows reservoirs, ridges and forest trails. Key sections include climbs to Waun Rydd and Bryniau Glesision, descents to Blaen y glyn, crossings of Pontsticill and Talybont reservoirs, and a crossing of the Dolygaer Brecon Mountain Railway track. The 40 mile course is a reverse of the 20 mile course. Terrain includes rocky paths, soft forest trails, mud, rivers and occasional snow. Wildlife such as red kites may be seen.

The course will be marked but the organiser will not use tape; marshals provide support. Cutoff times of 8 hours and 16 hours apply. A full mandatory kit list is enforced, with kit checks at registration and spot checks during the event. Required items include waterproof jacket and trousers, race vest, base layer, capacity to carry at least 0.5 litres of fluid, food, map or GPX file, phone, hat and gloves, appropriate trail footwear, first aid kit, foil blanket, head torch and whistle.

On-site facilities and services include physiotherapy, camping, refreshments, toilets, parking for a fee, a full medical team, stalls and planned mobile coffee and pizza vans. There are three refuel zones and SIS Nutrition at checkpoints. Finish provisions include refreshments and hot food for ultra distance finishers. Awards and services include a bespoke medal, handcrafted trophies for first to third, veteran awards for over 50 and over 60, a first canine trophy, online results and an event photo gallery. Parking tickets will be allocated by ballot, and some event prizes provide free entry to a future event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.