Bullock Smithy Hike / Ultra 56

The 50th Bullock Smithy Hike / Ultra 56

The Bullock Smithy Hike is a 24 hour hike and ultra marathon covering 56 miles through the Peak District. The route is a circular course that starts and finishes in Hazel Grove. The 2026 edition takes place on 5 to 6 September and is the event's 50th running. The event is organised by the 3rd Hazel Grove Scout Group.

The course uses a combination of public footpaths, bridleways and roads and is completely unmarked. Participants are expected to navigate the route, including during hours of darkness, and are advised to recce any sections they will visit at night. A suggested route and a GPX file are provided by the organisers.

Checkpoints are positioned around the course at named locations en route to Hazel Grove. Refreshments are supplied at checkpoints and a Full English breakfast is provided on completion. Finishing entrants receive a timed certificate and a unique 50th anniversary item; a commemorative keepsake will be available later at additional cost. The advertised entry fee is £50.

Entry is currently full and new entries are placed on a waiting list. Refunds are available only prior to 31 July and are subject to a 10% transaction fee; no deferrals are offered.

Required equipment must be carried by participants and includes physical OL1 and OL24 maps, a compass, whistle, torch with spare batteries, high visibility clothing, waterproofs, spare jumper, emergency rations, a mug for checkpoint refreshments, a first aid kit and foil blanket, and OS Locate or What3Words downloaded on a phone. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.