Runners-Next-the-Sea 5-Mile Beach Run

Event details

The Runners-next-the-Sea 5-mile Beach Race is scheduled for 11 January 2026 at Holkham Beach. This is the fourth edition of the event and it holds licence number 7807. Chip timing and immediate results will be provided by Total Race Timing. Entry places are limited to 250; the organiser holds the limit at 250 and a waiting list is available through Total Race Timing. Affiliated and unaffiliated entry fees were set at £18 and £20 respectively.

Course

The race distance is approximately 5 miles and runs across the National Nature Reserve. The course starts and finishes on the beach at Holkham Gap, near the boardwalk linking Lady Anne’s Drive car park and the beach. The route heads west behind the sand dunes toward Burnham Overy Staithe, crosses a dune, then runs east along the open beach for about two miles (including a shallow channel) before returning to the finish. The final route will be confirmed with the nature reserve team to avoid nesting sites and dune work. Minimum age is 16.

Logistics and rules

Registration takes place at the Lookout Café at the beach end of Lady Anne’s Drive; race numbers include a chip timing tag. There is car parking at Lady Anne’s Drive car park (Ordnance Survey TF892445) and a second car park in Holkham village; a parking charge applies. Toilets are at the Lookout Café and in Holkham village. Marshals will mark the route and provide instructions; runners are asked not to wear headphones. Dogs and pushchairs are not permitted on the course. First aid will be available. Awards are given to first, second and third male and female finishers, and every finisher will receive a memento. If the race is cancelled a full refund of the race fee will be offered. Transfers and a waiting list are managed through Total Race Timing with specified deadlines. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.