Stanhope Trail Races

Stanhope Trail Races

The Stanhope Trail Races offer trail running adventures in the North East of England. The event starts and finishes at the Stanhope Showground in the market town of Stanhope, County Durham. Participants run through the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and UNESCO Global Geopark. The landscape features open heather moors, upland rivers, waterfalls, and woods, alongside historical industrial sites.

Participants can choose from two main race distances:

• 10k +: Approximately 7 miles with 1200ft of elevation gain.
• 15 miles: Approximately 14.6 miles (half-marathon distance) with 1887ft of elevation gain.

The event follows environmentally responsible practices, including a policy of not using disposable plastic cups. A collection point is provided for participants to donate pre-loved running gear for up-cycling. Feed stations are located at the 4.5-mile and 9-mile marks for the longer distance. The courses are fully waymarked and marshalled, with medical cover provided.

Entry is open to participants aged 16 years or older. All finishers receive a bespoke memento, and post-race snacks are served at the showground. Parking is available on-site at the showground with additional space in the town center. Runners are required to carry kit appropriate for the weather, which may include full body cover, a waterproof jacket, and an emergency blanket. Prizes are awarded to the top three senior male and female finishers, as well as winners in age categories from V40 to 70+. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.