Sussex Downs Trail Run

Plumpton, United Kingdom • 5 Dec 2026

Sussex Downs Trail Run

The Sussex Downs Trail Run takes place in the South Downs National Park in Mid-Sussex, with the event base at Plumpton Racecourse near Lewes. The venue is described as being close to Brighton, Haywards Heath, Lewes, Burgess Hill and the A27/A23. The event is scheduled for December 2026. Dogs are not allowed.

  • 22km
  • 12km
  • 9km

Course and race services

The routes begin with a flattish, tree-lined section of about 3.5 km followed by a climb up to the South Downs Way. Runners pass views over the Sussex countryside, the Seven Sisters Country Park and sea views, complete a loop on sturdy trails toward Brighton, return to the South Downs Way, descend from the hilltop and finish with a flat final 3 km. Elevation gains listed are +434 m for the 22 km route, +240 m for the 12 km route and +180 m for the 9 km route.

Race services include chip timing, bib numbers, water stations, first aid on course, encouraging marshals, a finisher medal, drink and finisher goodies, and a personalised certificate. The course is signed with pink arrows and pink tape; hazards and road junctions are marked with caution signs. The event operates a plastic-free policy and asks runners to bring a reusable cup or bottle. Bibs are collected on arrival and runners are asked to bring their QR code for registration. Spectators are welcome. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

22 km
12 km
9 km
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

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.

Choose from 50 km, 55 miles or 100 miles on scenic South Downs trails starting and finishing in Eastbourne. Enjoy runnable grass tracks, farm and woodland paths and be ready for variable winter weather from crisp sun to wind, rain or snow.

UTMB Index

Scenic trail runs from Plumpton Racecourse across the South Downs with ridge top views to the sea. Choose 9, 12 or 22 km with chip timing, water stations and a finishers medal; plastic free event so bring a reusable cup.

Take on the Hurtwood 50k through the Surrey Hills on 7 December 2025, a fully signed trail ultra with checkpoints and a 10 hour time limit. Entries open 12 December 2024 and the event welcomes fast walkers and first time ultra runners.

UTMB Index