The Winter Tolkien Trail Race
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The Winter Tolkien Trail Race
The Winter Tolkien Trail Race is a late December trail event held at Stonyhurst College in Hurst Green, Clitheroe, Lancashire. The course covers 11.1 km with approximately 528 ft of elevation and is run in the reverse direction of the summer version. The minimum age to enter is 18 and the entry fee is £30. Entries open on 16 August 2026 and close on 14 December 2026.
The route starts on the avenue of Stonyhurst College and passes through the village of Hurst Green. Runners descend a field known locally as "Mount Doom" and enter a woodland area described in event materials as Tolkienesque. The course runs beside the Ribble River, passes an aqueduct built in 1880, and continues toward Cromwell Bridge, built in 1562, before reaching ancient woodlands and a set of steps described as leaving "Fangorn Forest." The finish returns toward Stonyhurst College with the main building visible for photographs.
Included in entry are a commemorative medal and goodies, professional race photography, a fully flagged and marshalled course, chip timing, professional first aid, free on-site parking, an event village offering refreshments, and prizes for the top three male and female overall and other category winners including best fancy dress. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
