The Martian Race

Event Details

The Martian Race is a trail running event held on Horsell Common in Surrey. It is entering its seventh year in 2026. The event features four main distances: a 21k half marathon, a 10k, a 5k, and a 2k mini race for children. The course route passes through the historic sandpits on the common, which are the site where the Martians first landed in H.G. Wells' novel The War of the Worlds.

Organisation & Charitable Cause

The race is organized entirely by volunteers, many of whom are local runners. All proceeds from the event are distributed to local charities, which are selected by the Woking Lions. In 2025, over £20,000 was raised and donated from the event.

Venue & Environment

Horsell Common is privately owned common land with public access. Almost half of the common is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The event organizers state they take their environmental responsibilities seriously, choosing routes to respect the local flora and fauna and striving to minimize their impact. The event pledges to be litter-free and free of single-use plastics.

Participant Feedback

Past reviews frequently mention the friendly and encouraging marshals, the scenic and varied off-road course through woods and heathland, and the professional organization. Common suggestions from participants include a desire for more water stations on hot days, more distance markers along the course, and an earlier start time for the races to avoid summer heat. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.