Thetford Back Yard Ultra
Brandon, United Kingdom • 12 Sep 2026
Event overview
The Thetford Back Yard Ultra Festival takes place at High Lodge in Thetford Forest, Suffolk. The format uses repeated loops of 4.167 miles (4 miles 880 feet / 6.7056 km). Entrants run one loop each hour until only one runner completes an extra loop. The main event uses chip timing and offers a winner prize of £250 plus free entry to the organiser's summer Back Yard Ultra event and assist. There are also timed entry options of 6 hours and 12 hours; these follow the same setup but will be recorded as DNF when the time limit is reached and have no prize. Entry closes 14 days before race day.
Format, rules and logistics
Key race rules require completing each loop within the hour to have it counted. No personal aid is allowed during a loop except access to common aid; competitors who do not complete a loop are recorded as DNF. Headtorch use is required during night running. The course is described as wide and flat, mostly gravel or grass with firm underfoot and one small hill, and it will be fully signed. There is one aid station at the start/finish with water and basic snacks and a supervised cooking area for crews; stoves are not allowed in camping areas. Runners and crews may camp for free in two designated camping areas; there is no camping on the Friday before the event. Parking can be booked in advance for a fee. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.