Blackdown Beast

Dunkeswell, United Kingdom • 24 Jan 2026

The Blackdown Beast

The Blackdown Beast is a social, self-navigated run in the Blackdown Hills organised by Honiton Running Club. The event raises money for Macmillan Cancer Support. It is based at the Skydive Centre on Dunkeswell Airfield and takes place on Saturday, 24th January 2026. The event offers route options including a shorter option near 10 miles and a longer route of about 16 miles.

Course and logistics

Runners follow a cross-country route on seldom used footpaths and lanes with several refreshment stops along the way.

  • 7.6 miles: cross-country to Smeatharpe; pasty and mulled wine at Smeatharpe Village Hall.
  • 2.8 miles: lanes and country paths to Upottery; Sidmouth Arms provides refreshments.
  • 3.3 miles: road and country to Luppitt Village Hall (refreshment stop TBC, cash).
  • 2.7 miles: across Luppitt Common back to Dunkeswell Airport; Aviation Cafe accepts cash and card.

The 10 mile option finishes at Upottery; minibus transport is provided to return 10-mile entrants to Dunkeswell (entrants must select the 10 mile option on the entry form). Dogs are not permitted on the route. In 2024 the event raised over £4,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

16 mi
16 Mile Route
10 mi
10 Mile Option
8 mi
7.6 Mile Leg to Smeatharpe
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
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