Cloud Nine

Cloud Nine (Cloud 9) Hill Race

Cloud Nine is a mostly off-road fell race organised by Congleton Harriers that runs from Congleton to the summit of Bosley Cloud and returns via the Bridestones. The course covers 9 miles with approximately 1250 ft (381 m) of ascent and is listed as FRA Category BM. The event is scheduled for 1 March 2026.

The 2026 route will be run in an anticlockwise rotation with some modifications around the Biddulph Valley Way; the overall distance remains 9 miles while the route around the Bridestones and Bosley Cloud is retained. The course is waymarked and marshalled.

Entry is by pre-entry only and the event capacity is limited (350). Entry fees are set at different rates for FRA-affiliated members and non-members plus booking or admin fees; a donation from each entry is made to the National Trust. The race is chip timed and organised under FRA rules. Minimum age for entrants is 18 years.

Runners must carry minimum kit in line with FRA requirements: waterproof whole-body cover with taped seams and an integrated attached hood, plus hat and gloves. Random kit checks will be made and failure to carry required kit will prevent participation. GPS and electronic devices are not permitted for navigation. There are changing facilities and a baggage store at the leisure centre and the start is at Brunswick Wharf, a short walk from the centre. A cut-off time is enforced partway through the course; the cut-off is around 60 minutes at roughly 3.9 miles into the race. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.