South Downs

Eastbourne, United Kingdom • 23 May 2026

South Downs (Summer Event)

The UK Ultra South Downs event comprises four point to point races through the South Downs National Park in the South East of England on 23 May 2026. Courses run mainly on non-technical, runnable trails and include faster sections as well as hillier sections at times.

Routes converge to cross the white cliffs of Beachy Head and finish in Eastbourne. The organiser provides fully marked courses with regular, well stocked aid stations staffed by volunteers. The finish area includes race commentary, food, music, massage and drinks for participants and supporters.

Distances on the day include:

  • 100 km South Downs 100k
  • 50 km South Downs 50k
  • 20 miles South Downs 20 Miles
  • Half marathon Seven Sisters Half Marathon

The South Downs 50k is a point to point trail from University of Brighton, Falmer, to Helen Garden, Eastbourne, following much of the South Downs Way. That route lists about 3,600 feet of ascent and descent, four aid stations, and mainly trail terrain with a small proportion of road. Some races are open only to entrants aged 20 or over. The South Downs 100k is part of the South Downs Triple Crown challenge, which consists of completing three ultra races within a calendar year. 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

Sussex Coastal Trail Run in Eastbourne on 7 March 2026 follows coastal paths by the Seven Sisters and the English Channel, offering 10K, half, marathon and ultra distances on chalk and forest terrain with marked routes.

UTMB Index

A set of trail events across the South Downs near Steyning, featuring marathon, 30k and half marathon distances with UTMB Index registration, GPX routes and on-course drinks stations. Entry includes a medal, breakfast and photo download.

UTMB Index

A 10 hour, 10 lap endurance event at Pippingford Park near Uckfield. Runners choose roughly 3, 4, or 5 mile loops and receive a finishing grade based on their shortest completed loop. Basic camping is available with limited facilities.

The 50 Mile Grand Slam 2026 challenges runners to complete four 50 mile ultras across the UK trail calendar. The series spans from April to November, covering iconic routes like the South Downs Way and Wendover Woods. It is a demanding test..