Dunstable Downs Half Marathon

Dunstable Downs Half Marathon

The Dunstable Downs Half Marathon is a trail race held on the National Trust estate at Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade. The route covers 21.2 km with about 450 m of elevation and runs across chalk ridge and lower Downs trails, offering a mix of open ridge sections, descents and climbs.

The course begins at the National Trust centre and passes landmarks such as the Tree Cathedral, Bison Hill and Kensworth Quarry. Runners pass an aid station near 10 km, complete an out-and-back to Five Knoles, and return along lower Downs trails. The route is fully waymarked with orange arrow markers and ribbons, and marshals are stationed at sharp turns. A GPX file and route maps are available for download.

Two aid stations are located at approximately 6.7 km and 13.7 km. Available items include water, coke, Precision Fuel & Hydration PF30 gels and jelly babies. Precision Fuel & Hydration products are provided at on-route aid points.

Event facilities at the National Trust Countryside Centre include car parking (charge applies or free for National Trust members), toilets and a bag drop, and an on-site cafe that opens at 10am. The race is licensed by the Trail Running Association and held under UKA rules. It is an UTMB World Series Index race, limited to 250 runners, has a four hour time limit and a minimum entry age of 17. Dogs are not permitted. Runners are required to carry a mobile phone, a digital route map on watch or phone and a reusable cup or bottle. Trail running shoes are recommended for the uneven terrain. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.