Three Forts Challenge

Worthing, United Kingdom • 3 May 2026

Event

The Three Forts Challenge is an annual trail running event on the South Downs, scheduled for 3 May 2026. The event is based at Lancing Manor Leisure Centre, Manor Road, Lancing, West Sussex, BN15 0PH. Routes use trails with rolling hills and sections of chalk, flint and gravel; several accounts note narrow or technical footpaths. The event provides marshals and regular aid stations along the course. Profits support Ferring Country Centre and other local Sussex charities.

Races and entry

  • Marathon - entry £49.00; open to entrants aged 18 and over.
  • Half marathon - entry £39.00; open to entrants aged 18 and over.
  • 3FC 5 Mile Trail Run - entry £20.00; open to entrants aged 16 and over; includes photo and medal.

The organiser lists an aggregate rating of 4.7 from 155 reviews. Reviews report substantial marshal support and well stocked aid stations, and they also mention limited parking, some route signage issues at junctions, and tight cut-off times for longer distances.

Location and logistics

The venue is reachable via the A27 at Lancing Manor roundabout. Buses stop on the A27 and Lancing train station is about a 25-minute walk, with bus links from the station. Parking at Lancing Manor Leisure Centre is limited and green travel is encouraged. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

Marathon
Marathon 2026
Half Marathon
Half Marathon 2026
5 mi
3fc 5 Mile Trail Run 2026
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Enjoy a festive 5 mile night trail in Friston Forest on 22 December celebrating fun and adventure over racing. Pick up your number at The Plough & Harrow, follow the GPX on your phone, bring a head torch and earn a festive medal and drink.

Join the Boxing Day Run, a spirited 3.5 mile route from the Devils Punch Bowl Hotel across Hindhead commons and up Gibbet Hill. Pick a competitive category or the fun Drinking Run with a pint at the two mile point.

Join the Eartham Xmas Score on Saturday 27 December for 60 or 45 minute timed score courses across festive South Downs terrain. SO juniors enter free with a special code from the organiser for a family friendly orienteering challenge.

Run among the vines at Rathfinny on 28 December 2025 with two 5 km loops across rolling South Downs terrain. Just 75 places and most of the entry fee supports the WOLO Foundation for families affected by cancer.