North Downs Way 100

Event

The North Downs Way 100® is a 100-mile continuous trail race on Saturday 8 August 2026, held along the North Downs Way from Farnham (Surrey) to Ashford (Kent). Distance is 103 mi (167 km); total climb is 11,000 ft (3,350 m). The overall cut-off is 30 hours. Terrain is listed as 80% trail and 20% road. The field is capped at about 250 starters. Entry fees are £220 for UKA affiliated runners and £222 for unaffiliated. Entries open 6 September 2025 and close 31 July 2026. Minimum age is 20. To start, runners must have completed a minimum 50-mile race within 15 hours between 1 January 2021 and race day or complete an approved qualifier before the event.

Course and logistics

The route follows the North Downs Way with two deviations (to the 50-mile aid station and the finish). Key places on route include Puttenham, Guildford, Ranmore Common, Box Hill, Reigate Hill, Oxted, Knockholt Pound (approx. mile 50), Wrotham, Detling, Hollingbourne, Harrietsham, Charing and the finish at Julie Rose Stadium, Ashford. There are a minimum of 12 fully stocked aid stations offering vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options; hot drinks from Knockholt and hot food at Knockholt, Detling and the finish. Drop bags are accepted at specific aid stations (Mile 50 Knockholt Pound; Mile 82 Detling; Mile 100 Ashford) with size limits. Pacers are permitted from Mile 54.5 (Otford); crews are allowed but only one vehicle per runner on course. The course is marked with national trail markers plus tape, arrows and paint; road crossings are un-marbled so runners must take care. Mandatory kit must be carried at all times; missing items incur a one hour penalty. Awards include buckles for sub-24-hour and 24-30-hour finishers and prizes for overall and veteran categories. Course records are 15:18:41 (male, 2019) and 18:13:58 (female, 2025). Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.