The Tolkien Trail Race

Stonyhurst, United Kingdom • 19 Jul 2025

The Tolkien Trail Race is an 11.1 km trail running event held at Stonyhurst College in Hurst Green, Clitheroe, Lancashire. The course, with 528 feet of elevation, follows enchanting woodland paths and scenic river trails that inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit." Starting on the historic avenue of Stonyhurst College, where Tolkien once taught and wrote, runners traverse forest steps, cross old stone bridges, and pass landmarks like the Cromwell Bridge and a breathtaking aqueduct along the River Ribble. The race offers a fully flagged and marshalled course, professional photography, race medals, and an event village with food vendors, creating a vibrant and immersive atmosphere for participants. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

11 km
11.1km
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Run the Petzl Night Runner at Rivington under head torch light, choosing 10 km or a half marathon on glow in the dark trail signage. Expect rough, boggy, rocky terrain, a finisher medal and lively post race buzz.

Take on The Half & Half 10 km on 25 January 2026 at Sowerby Bridge for a split terrain challenge. Rugged muddy trails and obstacles give way to a tarmac finish, entries are limited to 100 and hoodies are available to pre order.

Timed lap based event on a flat 5.3 km riverside out and back near Hardy Farm in Manchester, with flexible distances from 5 km to ultra and a seven hour time limit. Medal free entry option and a charity donation per finisher.

Hoofstones Fell Race in Todmorden covers 8 miles with 425 m of climb across the Pennines, testing navigation skills. Race HQ is the Staff of Life pub where post race refreshments and prizes await; entries accepted pre entry or on the day.