The Tolkien Trail Race

The Tolkien Trail Race

The Tolkien Trail Race is a trail running event located in the Ribble Valley, Lancashire. The course covers a distance of 11.1 km with a total elevation gain of 528 ft. Participants must be 18 years or older on the day of the event to enter. The race takes place in the landscape that served as the inspiration for J.R.R. Tolkien’s "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit."

The route begins on the Avenue of Stonyhurst College, a location where Tolkien spent time writing and lecturing. From the start, runners follow a farm track into woodland areas. The course includes descending forest steps and crossing an old stone bridge to reach the River Hodder. After a short road section, the path passes the Cromwell Bridge, which dates back to 1562.

The trail continues along the River Ribble, passing an aqueduct built in 1880. The final stages of the race lead through woodland and a field behind the Shireburn Arms, before returning through the village and back down the avenue to the finish at Stonyhurst College.

Registration includes:

• A race medal and event swag
• Chip timing
• Professional photography
• A fully flagged and marshalled course
• Free on-site parking

The event site features an event village with food vendors offering coffee and sandwiches. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.