Sussex Downs Trail Run

Plumpton, United Kingdom • 6 Dec 2025

Event location and course

The Sussex Downs Trail Run is set in the South Downs National Park in Mid-Sussex. The event base is Plumpton Racecourse, at the foot of the South Downs near Lewes. Routes begin with a flattish, tree-lined section of about 3.5 km, followed by a climb up to the South Downs Way. From the ridge there is a loop on sturdy trails heading toward Brighton, then a descent from the hilltop and a flat final 3 km to the finish. The climb reaches viewpoints over the Sussex countryside, the Seven Sisters Country Park and the sea.

Practical information

  • 22 km (elevation +434 m)
  • 12 km (elevation +240 m)
  • 9 km (elevation +180 m)

Entry includes first aid on course, water stations, chip timing, a finishers medal, finisher goodies and a personalised certificate. Bib numbers must be collected on arrival at registration; runners should bring their QR code. The event is plastic free, so participants are asked to bring a reusable cup or bottle. Course signage uses pink arrows and pink tape; hazards and road junctions are marked with "Caution" signs. Spectators are welcome. A RunRebel merch tent will be on site. No dogs are allowed. GPX files are provided for each route. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

22 km
434 m+
12 km
240 m+
9 km
180 m+
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

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..

Take part in a woodland night score at Westerham: 60 minute navigation to collect as many 10 point controls as you can from 20 locations. Limited entries, book online in advance; apres and prize giving at The Carpenters Arms.

Tackle a 50 km ultra linking five classic long distance trails or choose a half marathon through chalk downland and woodland near Graffham. Enjoy stunning views, stocked checkpoints, SportIdent timing and an eco wood finisher medal.

UTMB Index

Explore the woods around Slindon with South Downs Orienteers on Saturday 15 November, with multiple courses to suit all abilities. Juniors can enter free with a special code; contact the organiser if you need one.

Run as many 5 km laps as you can in three hours around Peaslake Village Hall. A friendly night event with head torches, refreshments, prizes for top men and women plus shoe demos.

Join a guided Box Hill Vertical KM group run near Dorking for a tough 12.5 mile route with about 1000 m of climb through woods, heath and open fields. Enjoy expert guidance, technical terrain and a social finish.