The Maverick Dark Castle Trail

The Maverick Dark Castle Trail

The Maverick Dark Castle Trail is an evening trail running event based at Corfe Castle in Dorset. Runners follow fully marked routes that pass Corfe Common, the village of Church Knowle and the ridge at Knowle Hill, with views across Purbeck and towards Poole Harbour and the illuminated castle ruins.

Available routes:

• Long: 15 km, +243 m
• Middle: 11 km, +225 m
• Short: 5 km, +120 m

Trails include woodland, open heath and single track. In November many sections are soft and muddy, with a few hard packed or road sections. The Long and Middle routes continue to Stone Hill Down and through tighter single track near the area known as Blue Poole. The landscape is home to Sika deer, which may be visible in torch light.

On route support and venue facilities are limited. The Long route has one outpost at about 7 km with snack items, gels and electrolyte drink. There are no pre filled water cups at the outpost so runners should carry a reusable cup or bottle. There are no toilets along the run route; toilets are available in the start and finish area. The main venue offers hot food and drink and fire pits. The event is not dog friendly. Headphones are not permitted. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a participating adult.

Additional notes include a 15 to 20 minute walk from the nearest car park to the main venue and guidance to follow signage and marshals and to close gates and avoid littering. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.