South Downs

Eastbourne, United Kingdom • 23 May 2026

Event overview

The South Downs 50k is a 50 km point-to-point trail race from University of Brighton, Falmer (East Sussex) to Helen Garden, Eastbourne. The course follows the South Downs Way through the South Downs National Park and finishes at the white cliffs of Beachy Head. The route includes approximately 3,600 ft of ascent and descent and is described as mostly runnable with grass trails, some farm tracks and forest paths. The race is open to entrants aged 20 and over and does not require a qualifier.

Course, entries and services

There are four staffed aid stations on course. The entry fee is listed as £78 and includes a mandatory GPS tracker. The event provides live GPS tracking, chip timing, downloadable photos, a bespoke finisher medal, winner trophies, first aid and event insurance. The race is a UTMB Index event and awards 2 ITRA points. Entries are first come, first served with no waitlist; refunds, deferrals and transfers are permitted under stated conditions up to set deadlines. The race also forms part of the South Downs 50K Triple Crown option. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

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

The Beachy Head Marathon is one of the largest off-road marathons in the UK, renowned for its stunning and challenging course through the South Downs National Park. Formerly known as the Seven Sisters Marathon, it attracts runners, joggers,..

Join Plough and Harroween, a 5 mile Halloween night trail through Friston Forest on 31 October, starting and finishing at the Plough and Harrow in Litlington. Fancy dress, head torch and trail shoes required; medals, prizes and a pub drink..

Event overview Winter on the Downs is a pair of single-loop trail ultras around the trails of East and West Sussex. Both races start and finish in Helen Garden, Eastbourne. Distances offered: 55 miles 100 miles The route begins over Beach..

UTMB Index

Sussex Downs Trail Run The Sussex Downs Trail Run takes place at Plumpton Racecourse in the South Downs National Park, Mid-Sussex. The course starts at the foot of the South Downs and moves from a flattish, tree-lined section into a sustain..

The Mince Pie 10 is a festive 10-mile race held in Peacehaven, East Sussex, organized by Seaford Striders. The multi-terrain course features about six miles of farm tracks and bridleways, with the remaining four miles on quiet roads, includ..

A scenic 10km loop around Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, almost entirely off road and fully marked for a relaxed coastal trail. Limited to 70 runners, with prizes for top finishers and tea and cake after the race.