Pim Running Festival - Crathes Castle

PIM Running Festival at Crathes Castle

PIM Running Festival takes place at Crathes Castle near Banchory on 12 September 2026 and is organised by the National Trust for Scotland. The event offers a half marathon, a 5 km race and a 1.5 km children’s race, all with start and finish on the lawn in front of the castle.

The half marathon route leads out onto quiet country roads to the north and east of the estate, runs toward the Drum Castle estate and returns in a loop to the castle. Most of the route is on quiet back roads with a couple of level off road farm track sections. The shorter 5 km and 1.5 km courses remain within the scenic grounds of Crathes Castle.

Distances and age rules

• 13.1 miles Half Marathon age 18 plus Route on quiet roads and some farm tracks
• 5 km Within Crathes Castle grounds age 12 plus
• 1.5 km Children’s race within estate grounds P1 to P7

Prizes are awarded for each event, with specific categories in the half marathon for over 50s, over 60s and over 70s. All competitors receive a medal and an event T shirt at the finish. Entry fees help support the conservation work of the National Trust for Scotland. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.