Silent Night Fell Race

Event Overview

The Silent Night Race is a winter fell running event organized by Durham Fell Runners. It is described as the "dark festive cousin" of the Chapelfell Top Fell Race. The race takes place in Weardale and is run entirely in the dark.

Course Details

The route is a classic out-and-back course that climbs to the summit of Chapelfell Top at 703m. The total distance is 6.6km with 370m of ascent. The terrain is described as rough and pathless. The route is unmarked, and navigation skills are required. The use of GPS for navigation is not permitted, though GPS devices may be used to display data like distance or time.

Participant Requirements

This event is strictly for experienced participants. Entrants must be 18 or older. They must also provide verifiable evidence of completing two prior events involving off-path navigation, such as mountain marathons, orienteering events, or specific long fell races. Trail races and short fell races are not accepted as qualifying experience.

Registration and parking are at the Chatterbox Cafe in St. Johns Chapel, DL13 1QF.

Mandatory Kit List

A comprehensive and strictly enforced kit list is required. This includes:

• Map (provided at registration)
• Compass suitable for navigation
• Whistle
• Head torch plus a spare head torch
• Waterproof top with hood and taped seams
• Waterproof bottoms with taped seams
• Emergency food
• Gloves and hat
• Emergency bivvy bag
• Spare warm insulated top and full-length tights in a waterproof bag
• Mobile phone with the race organizer's number stored

The event is licensed and supported by the Fell Runners Association (FRA). Entry fees are £6.00 for FRA members and £8.00 for non-members. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.