The Maverick Dark Castle Trail
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The Maverick Dark Castle Trail
The Maverick Dark Castle Trail takes place at Corfe Castle in Dorset on Saturday 21 November 2026. Back for its fourth year, the race uses the historic castle as a race venue and follows night trails across the Purbeck hills and surrounding villages.
The route leaves the stone bridge and passes through the village of Corfe, crosses Corfe Common and moves toward Church Knowle. Runners climb onto the ridge at Knowle Hill with views across Purbeck, the lights of Poole Harbour in the distance and the glow of Corfe Castle to the right. The long and middle routes continue to Stone Hill Down and then onto tight single track toward Blue Poole.
Trail surfaces are expected to be soft in November, with muddy, rooty and narrow sections as well as some hard packed or road sections. Woodland and open heath areas may contain herds of Sika deer. There is one outpost on the Long route at about 7 km; there are no outposts on the Middle and Short routes. Toilets are available only in the start and finish area.
Facilities at the venue include hot food and drink, fire pits, free parking, a fully marked and timed course, bag drop, event photography and a metal finisher medal. The car park is a 15 to 20 minute walk from the main venue. Dogs are not allowed within the event venue. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a participating adult. Headtorch or chest torch, trail shoes and a refillable cup or bottle are advised; headphones are not permitted. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
