North Downs Way 100

Event Overview

The North Downs Way 100 is a continuous 100-mile trail run along the North Downs Way with a time limit of 30 hours. The 2026 edition will be the 16th annual event. The total climb on the course is approximately 11,000 feet. The race is a Western States Endurance Run qualifier.

The Route

The point-to-point course travels from Farnham in the Surrey Hills to Ashford in Kent. The trail passes through the English countryside, villages including Puttenham, Guildford, and Detling, and notable locations such as Ranmore Common, Box Hill, and Reigate Hill. Runners cross the Medway Bridge. The finish line is at the Julie Rose Stadium in Ashford. The terrain is approximately 80% trail and 20% road.

Race Details

The entry fee is £220 for UKA-affiliated runners and £222 for unaffiliated runners. A qualification standard is required: runners must have completed a minimum 50-mile race within 15 hours between 1 January 2021 and race day. The race has a field of 250 starters.

Aid Stations and Support

There are 12 fully stocked aid stations providing food and drinks suitable for various dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Hot food is available at the Knockholt (mile 50) and Detling (mile 82) aid stations and at the finish. Drop bags are permitted at three locations: mile 50 (Knockholt Pound), mile 82 (Detling), and the finish line in Ashford.

Awards and Equipment

Finishers receive a buckle: a '100 miles - One Day' buckle for sub-24-hour finishes and a '100 mile Finisher' buckle for finishes between 24 and 30 hours. Special buckles are awarded for completing 5 or 10 editions of the event. Runners must carry mandatory kit, including a waterproof jacket, survival blanket, headtorch, and mobile phone. Pacers are permitted from mile 54.5, and one crew vehicle is allowed at designated points. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.