Canalathon Ultra
Sowerby Bridge, United Kingdom • 22 Mar 2026
Canalathon Ultra Running Festival
The Canalathon Ultra Running Festival takes place along the Rochdale Canal, passing through historic towns in Yorkshire and Lancashire. The event offers four distances: 100km, 50km, a Half Marathon, and a 10km. All races are on flat, well-maintained canal towpaths, requiring minimal navigation and featuring no significant hill climbs.
The 100km is an out-and-back course starting in Sowerby Bridge. The 50km starts at Ancoats and finishes in Sowerby Bridge. The Half Marathon begins near The Summit in Todmorden and ends at Sowerby Bridge. The 10km starts and finishes in Sowerby Bridge. The Race HQ and finish line for all distances is at Sowerby Bridge Cricket Club.
The event includes chip timing, marshalled and signed courses, and aid stations with savoury and sweet food options, juice, and water. There is a transport option provided for 50km and Half Marathon runners from Sowerby Bridge to the start lines. Facilities include free parking, portaloos, changing rooms, showers, hot food post-race, and complimentary drinks. Participants receive a goody bag and a bespoke medal.
It is recommended that runners wear trail shoes, although the course surfaces are mainly hard and dry. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.