River Ayr Way Challenge
Glenbuck Loch, United Kingdom • 12 Sep 2026
Event overview
The River Ayr Way Challenge is an annual ultra-marathon held in September. The race covers 40 miles and is part of the Scottish Ultra Marathon series. It attracts runners from across the country. The River Ayr Way itself is a long distance route of 44 miles that follows the River Ayr from its source at Glenbuck Loch to the sea at Ayr.
2026 will mark the 20th anniversary of the Challenge, with the planned date of 12 September 2026.
Route and logistics
The Challenge follows the River Ayr Way, a waymarked long distance path. Route maps and sectional maps are provided for entrants and a new end point for the Challenge is indicated on the event map. The general River Ayr Way begins at Glenbuck Loch where parking is available at Glenbuck Heritage Park.
A section of the River Ayr Way at Wellflat Bank is closed due to landslides; a temporary diversion via Daldorch is in place while a permanent alternative is negotiated. Participants and planners use the published route maps and section documents for navigation. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.