South Downs Trail Run

Chichester, United Kingdom • 7 Nov 2026

Event Overview

The South Downs Trail Run is an off-road running event located in West Sussex that takes place within the South Downs National Park. The event starts and finishes at the Glorious Goodwood Racecourse. The course transitions through a variety of terrains, including forest fire roads, bridleways, and single-track trails.

Course Details

The route is designed to highlight the natural landscape of the region. Participants run through forest tracks and travel along the edge of Levin Down. A portion of the course follows the South Downs Way, a well-known long-distance footpath. The elevation profile includes a descent into the village of East Dean followed by a final climb leading back to the racecourse.

From the higher points of the trail, the course offers views of the rolling hills of the South Downs. Depending on weather conditions, participants can see the North Downs, Chichester Harbour, and the Isle of Wight.

Distances and Finishers

The event offers three different distances for participants to choose from:

  • Short distance
  • Middle distance
  • Long distance

Upon completing the course and crossing the finish line back at Goodwood, runners receive a commemorative medal, a drink, and a selection of finisher items. The event typically hosts over 1,000 participants. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

Trail Run
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Join a guided 10km trail run through the historic and scenic Hankley Common. Experience the route as a group, passing film locations and military training grounds, with optional gear testing. A non-alcoholic beer awaits at the finish.

Experience a scenic 50 km loop through the South Downs starting from historic Arundel. This trail race features rolling hills, forest paths, and riverside tracks with full navigation marking and live GPS tracking.

UTMB Index

Test your endurance with the 50 Mile Grand Slam 2026. This comprehensive series includes four iconic 50 mile races across the South Downs, North Downs, Chilterns, and Wendover Woods.

A 50 mile ultramarathon along the South Downs Way National Trail from Worthing to Eastbourne. Experience 5,700 feet of elevation gain across rolling chalk paths and finish with a lap of an athletics track.

UTMB Index