Isaac's Tea Trail Ultra

Event overview

Isaac’s Tea Trail Ultra - Backwards is a 37-mile loop race starting and finishing in Allendale, within the North Pennines AONB and UNESCO Global Geopark. The route includes about 4800 ft of ascent. The event offers both a solo ultra and a relay option for teams of up to three runners. Entry fees are listed at around £78-£80 for the solo ultra and £100 per relay team. Registration takes place at Allendale Village Hall, NE47 9PR.

Route, navigation and timing

The course follows the waymarked Isaac’s Tea Trail through farmland, riverside trails, villages, meadows and moorland. The event is largely self-navigating using permanent signage; a downloadable map and GPX file are provided. Marshals will be positioned at key points, and participants have a 12-hour window to complete the route, equivalent to an average of about 3 mph.

Relay legs and terrain

• Allendale to Ninebanks - 10.2 miles, 1200 ft climbing
• Ninebanks to Nenthead - 15.8 miles, 1900 ft climbing
• Nenthead to Allendale - 11.4 miles, 1750 ft climbing

Terrain is a mix of farmland tracks, field boundaries, sheep trods, minor roads and stony undulating trails; trail shoes are recommended.

Included services

The event package mentions a branded mug, a packet of mixed wild flower seeds, event tracking, free event photos, well-stocked checkpoints with drinks and snacks, and food and drinks at race HQ after the event. A donation from each entry goes toward trail upkeep. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.