Solstice Saunter

Solstice Saunter 2026 : Bolton Abbey Estate

The Solstice Saunter is a five mile circular trail run at Bolton Abbey Estate organised in support of Sue Ryder by the Airedale Dodgers, with partners including the Bolton Abbey Estate and Ecology Building Society. The route starts and finishes at the Cavendish Pavilion car park and follows a clockwise loop up through Strid Wood to Barden Bridge, then returns along the river bank.

The course uses tarmac and gravel paths with a short section on grass. Every participant receives a Solstice Saunter medal. There is a Virtual Solstice Saunter option in which participants run a five mile route of their choice on the longest day and receive the same medal.

Entry terms note that the car parking fee for participants is included in the entry fee and that entries are non-transferable and non-refundable; cancellations for reasons beyond the organiser’s control may be rescheduled. The event is timed for the evening of the Summer Solstice and may be altered for safety reasons such as flooding.

Practical rules include age restrictions and guardian consent for under 18s, a requirement that under 11s remain within arm’s reach of a responsible adult, and a one-dog-per-runner policy with dogs kept on short leads. Headphones are not allowed and wheeled transport such as wheelchairs, buggies and scooters is not permitted. Participants must provide emergency contact information and follow instructions from organisers and marshals. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.