Grim Reaper Running Festival

Grim Reaper Running Festival 2026

The Grim Reaper Running Festival takes place within the grounds of the Grimsthorpe Castle Estate in South Lincolnshire, near the town of Bourne. This multi-distance event features a variety of options for solo participants and teams, centered around a 10-mile loop.

The course utilizes a fully marked 10-mile circuit that incorporates diverse terrain, including grass trails through ancient woodland, limestone tracks, and quiet estate roads. A portion of the route follows a disused Victorian railway line and passes by the estate lake. The start and finish area is situated directly in front of Grimsthorpe Castle.

Participants can choose from several distances:

• 10 mile Day solo race
• 10 mile Night solo race
• 40 miles solo race
• 70 miles solo race
• 100 miles solo race
• 100 miles relay for teams of up to five members

For the ultra-distances of 40, 70, and 100 miles, a strict 28-hour cut-off time is enforced, and there is a mandatory kit list. These longer races are designed to be self-sufficient, although an aid station is positioned at the 5-mile mark. Runners can leave tents or personal supplies at the start/finish area to access between laps.

Registration includes free camping on Friday and Saturday nights for all participants. Trophies are presented to the top three male and female finishers in the solo categories, as well as members of the winning relay teams. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.