South Downs

Eastbourne, United Kingdom • 23 May 2026

Trail Running in the South Downs

The UK Ultra South Downs event features four distinct races located within the South Downs National Park in the South East of England. All courses are point-to-point and utilize non-technical, runnable trails that include both flat, fast sections and steeper, hilly terrain. The routes converge during the event to cross the white cliffs of Beachy Head before concluding at a shared finish line in Eastbourne.

The event offers several race distances:

  • 100 km
  • 50 km
  • 20 miles
  • Half Marathon (Seven Sisters)

The 100 km race is part of the South Downs Triple Crown, a series where participants complete three ultra-distance races within a single calendar year. All routes are fully marked, and participants have access to regular aid stations staffed by volunteers.

The finish area in Eastbourne is designed to allow participants from different races to arrive at similar times. The site includes race commentary, food, music, and drinks. Massage services are also available for runners at the end of the course. Registration is open to both runners and walkers, with age requirements varying from 18 to 20 depending on the specific distance selected. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

UTMB 20K UTMB 50K UTMB 100K
50 km
South Downs 50k
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

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.

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Trail races on the South Downs Way around Stanmer with 21 km, 14 km and 5 km options. Routes pass Ditchling Beacon and include chip timing, a finisher medal, GPX files and on-course support for the longer distances.

Experience a unique 42km journey starting in the woodland trails of Stanmer Park and the South Downs before joining the road for a grand seaside finish at Hove Lawns.

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