The Ridgeway Challenge

The Ridgeway Challenge

The Ridgeway Challenge is a point to point trail running race that follows the entire length of The Ridgeway National Trail, running from Ivinghoe Beacon in Hertfordshire to Avebury Stones in Wiltshire. The course distance is 86 miles (139 km) with listed elevation of 6,060 ft (about 1,850 m). Runners have an overall time allowance of 28 hours. The event is licensed by the Trail Running Association and held under UKA rules, and it is listed on the UTMB World Series index.

The event accepts a maximum of 150 runners and has a minimum entry age of 20. Navigation is fully marked for the first 60 km and relies on permanent trail signage elsewhere; all entrants must carry the route on a watch, phone or paper map. Open GPS tracking is provided for all runners.

There are eight checkpoints along the route with water, electrolyte drinks, gels, snacks, fresh fruit and other supplies. Hot food is available at the middle and later checkpoints and hot water is available at several CPs. Mandatory kit requirements include a charged mobile phone, access to the GPX route or map, a minimum 1 litre water capacity, a foil blanket or survival bag, a primary light source and backup, head covering, basic first aid, a reusable non collapsible cup, waterproof jacket or spare warm clothing, nutrition and means to pay.

Registration starts at £162 with tiered pricing and pre race coach transfers are offered to the start from January 2027. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.