Maverick Cotswolds Trail
Cheltenham, United Kingdom • 16 May 2026
Event Overview
The Maverick Cotswolds Trail run takes place on Saturday, May 16, 2026. The 11th edition of this trail running event starts at Sudeley Castle near Winchcombe, which is situated within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Route Options
The event offers five route distances:
- 50k Ultra: 51 km with 1383 m of elevation gain.
- Marathon: 43 km with 1069 m of elevation gain.
- Half Marathon: 23 km with 528 m of elevation gain.
- Middle: 15 km with 396 m of elevation gain.
- Short: 7 km with 97 m of elevation gain.
All routes start from Sudeley Castle and follow hard-packed, established trails. The courses join several long-distance paths, including the Winchcombe Way and the Cotswold Way, passing through picturesque villages and countryside.
Event Features
The event is dog-friendly, though a dog must be added to the entry. It is a cup-free event, and participants are asked to bring a reusable cup or bottle. Free parking is available at the venue. The course is fully marked and timed, with online results and event photography provided. A metal finisher's medal and non-alcoholic beer are given at the finish.
Aid Stations and Requirements
Outposts (aid stations) are available on all routes except the Short course, offering water, sweet and savoury snacks, and electrolyte drinks. A bag drop area is provided. Mandatory kit requirements differ by distance; for example, runners on the Marathon and 50k Ultra must carry a waterproof jacket, a mobile phone, and a minimum of 1 litre of water. There is a cutoff time of 17:30 for the Ultra and Marathon routes. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.