Cotswold Way Ultra Challenge
Cirencester, United Kingdom • 13-14 Jun 2026
Cotswold Way Ultra Challenge
The Cotswold Way Ultra Challenge is a trek and trail running event set in the heart of the Cotswolds. Starting from the Cirencester basecamp, participants travel through rolling hills, traditional villages, and various footpaths and trails along the Cotswold Way. The event welcomes approximately 2,000 adventurers who can choose to walk, jog, or run their selected distance.
Distance Options
The event offers several route lengths and formats to accommodate different goals:
- 100 km Full Continuous: A looped route starting and finishing at the Cirencester basecamp, involving approximately 2,250 meters of climb.
- 100 km 2-Day "Daylight": The full distance split over two days, with the first leg from Cirencester to Wotton-under-Edge (53 km) and the second from Wotton back to Cirencester (47 km).
- 76 km 3/4 Challenge: A point-to-point route starting in Painswick and finishing at the Cirencester basecamp.
- 53 km 1st Half Challenge: From Cirencester to Wotton-under-Edge with approximately 1,600 meters of climb.
- 47 km 2nd Half Challenge: From Wotton-under-Edge to the Cirencester basecamp.
- 30 km 2nd Quarter Challenge: A route from Painswick to Wotton-under-Edge featuring 1,000 meters of climb.
- 23 km 1st Quarter Challenge: From Cirencester to Painswick.
- 10 km Cirencester: A shorter loop suitable for families, starting and finishing at the basecamp.
Event Support and Extras
Participants receive comprehensive support throughout the challenge. Marquee rest stops are positioned roughly every 12.5 km, providing snacks, drinks, and main meals every 25 km. Medical and massage teams are available at these locations, along with changing rooms and seating areas. The route is clearly marked with pink arrows and glow-sticks for night sections, supplemented by GPS tracking via a dedicated mobile app.
Available extras include camping packages at the Cirencester basecamp or the half-way point in Wotton-under-Edge, hostel-style accommodation, and shuttle bus transfers to local train stations. Finishers receive a medal, a T-shirt, and a meal to celebrate their achievement. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.