Thames Path Ultra Challenge
London, United Kingdom • 12-13 Sep 2026
Event overview
The Thames Path Ultra Challenge takes place on 12-13 September 2026 along the Thames towpath in southern England. The route runs upstream from the Putney Bridge / Fulham area to Henley-on-Thames, passing Richmond, Hampton Court, Runnymede, and Windsor. The event is part of a weekend Thames Path Festival that also includes a 25 km Thames Bridges Trek and the Thames Moonlight 10 walk in Central London, plus a separate Henley 10K near Henley Bridge. The organiser expects around 3,000 participants at the Putney Bridge start.
Routes and distances
Distances and typical route sections include:
- 100 km - Fulham to Henley-on-Thames, total climb ~350 m
- 100 km (2-day daylight) - two 50 km stages (Fulham to Runnymede; Runnymede to Henley)
- 72 km - Hurst Park to Henley-on-Thames
- 50 km (1st half) - Fulham to Runnymede, ~200 m climb
- 50 km (2nd half) - Runnymede to Henley-on-Thames, ~150 m climb
- 28 km / 22 km quarter stages - various start/finish points between Fulham, Hurst Park, Runnymede, Cookham, and Henley
- 10 km Henley - riverside loop in Remenham countryside
There are Ultra March and Trailblazerz categories for specific target times, and a Solo Challenger start option.
Support and logistics
The event provides rest stops approximately every 12.5 km, with larger marquee rest stops about every 25 km. Catering (meals and snacks), free food and drinks, medical teams, podiatrists and massage services are available on course. Route marking, GPS tracking via an event app, shuttle transfers to nearby stations, and optional camping packages at the mid point are offered. Finishers receive a medal, T-shirt, and a finishers meal. Registration is open with self-funding and charity fundraising options. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.