Otter Rail and River Run

Event Overview

The Otter Rail and River Run is an off-road running event located in the Otter Valley. The races start and finish on the village playing field in Tipton St John. The course utilizes a network of public footpaths and rights of way, passing through local landmarks such as Harpford woods and the old Sidmouth railway line.

Participants will navigate an undulating route that follows the River Otter downstream before crossing through fields toward Fluxton. The terrain is characterized by tracks and footpaths, and the course is known to include puddles depending on the weather conditions.

The event offers two distinct distances:

• 10 km: An undulating off-road course for participants aged 15 and over.
• Fun Run: A route of approximately 1 mile.

Race Details and Features

The 10 km race provides all finishers aged 18 or older with a bottle of Otter Ale, with both alcoholic and zero-alcohol options available. Custom-made medals or coasters are offered as optional extras for this distance.

The Fun Run takes place on an off-road course. While it is open to all ages, it is recommended that children under eight years of age are accompanied by an adult, as the route passes through fields that may contain livestock. All finishers in the Fun Run receive a locally designed medal and a jelly snake.

The event is organized by the Tipton St John Playing Field Association in conjunction with the Sidmouth Running Club and is held under ARC rules. Overnight stays are possible as camping is permitted on the playing field for tents, campervans, or caravans for an additional fee. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.