The Dark Downs

The Dark Downs

The Dark Downs is a night trail event held on the South Downs with looped courses that run from dusk into darkness. The route uses mainly runnable trails with rolling hills and is described as untechnical terrain, making it suitable for running after sunset. The location is Plumpton Racecourse, Lewes.

The event offers multiple distance options and includes marked courses with high-visibility reflective signage and marshals at regular intervals. Aid stations are provided and staffed by volunteers. Runners and walkers are given set time limits to complete their chosen distance, with available windows of either six hours or twelve hours.

Night running is a particular focus of the event and is presented as an opportunity to gain experience in racing after dark. The South Downs area holds a Dark Sky Reserve designation noted for clear, starry nights, which is relevant to the event experience.

The 50k distance also forms part of a South Downs "50k" Triple Crown series, in which entrants may select three qualifying races to attempt the Crown.

Distances Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

• 50k
• Half Marathon
• 20 mile