Dunstable Downs Half Marathon

Dunstable Downs Half Marathon

The Dunstable Downs Half Marathon is a trail race held on 21 June 2026 at the National Trust estate around Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade. The course covers 21.2 km with approximately 450 m of cumulative ascent on marked trail terrain. The event is limited to 250 runners and has a four hour time limit. Minimum age for entry is 17 and dogs are not permitted. The race is licensed by the Trail Running Association (license number 8210) and is held under UKA rules. It is listed as a UTMB World Series Index Race.

The route starts at the National Trust centre. The first quarter runs out to the Tree Cathedral and Bison Hill and returns past the centre. Runners then complete a full loop of Kensworth Quarry, passing an aid station at around 10 km. After rejoining the Downs the course includes an out and back to Five Knoles and finishes by running the lower Downs trails, retracing the opening 5 km in reverse. Navigation is by arrow markers and orange ribbons. Two aid stations are listed at approximately 6.7 km and 13.7 km, and Precision Fuel and Hydration products are available at aid stations.

Event facilities include a downloadable runner guide and GPX file. The event base is Dunstable Downs LU6 2GY and the closest rail access points are Tring or Luton stations. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.