Hamsterley Forest Winter Trail Races
Hamsterley, United Kingdom • 10 Jan 2026
Hamsterley Forest Winter Trail Races
The event takes place on 10 January 2026 at Hamsterley Forest Park, Bishop Auckland DL13 3NL. Two distances are offered:
- Half Marathon
- 10k
Both courses follow waymarked footpaths, forest trails and woodland tracks around the visitor centre and main car park. Hamsterley Forest is listed as covering 4900 square acres. The terrain is a mixture of hard packed gravel tracks, single twisting dirt tracks and occasional muddy bridleway. Wildlife in the forest can include deer, badgers and squirrels.
Logistics and what is provided
Entry fees are: Half Marathon £30 affiliated / £32 non affiliated; 10k £23 affiliated / £25 non affiliated. The event includes a bespoke event mug, hot soup and a roll, a packet of wild flower seeds and free downloadable event pictures. There will be a race HQ with toilets, plenty of car parking spaces (discounted parking charges apply) and medical support on the course. Aid stations will provide water and snacks at around mile 4, later on the course, and at the finish. Temperatures may fall below freezing at this time of year and a mandatory kit list will be required; suggested items include full body cover, hat and gloves, waterproof jacket and trousers, and an emergency blanket. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.