Three Forts Challenge

Worthing, United Kingdom • 3 May 2026

Three Forts Challenge - Overview

The Three Forts Challenge is a trail running event on Sunday 3 May 2026. The event has been held since 1977 and takes place on the South Downs with routes that include rolling hills and coastal views. Entries include races for runners and options to run with a dog. Net profits from the event support Ferring Country Centre and local Sussex charities.

Distances offered:

  • Marathon
  • Half marathon
  • 5-mile trail run

Location and practical information

The event base is Lancing Manor Leisure Centre, Manor Road, Lancing, West Sussex BN15 0PH. There will be limited parking at the leisure centre. Access by road is via the A27 at Lancing Manor roundabout. Buses run regularly and stop in a layby on the A27. Lancing Train Station is the closest station; walking from the station to the leisure centre takes about 25 minutes and local buses run between the station and the centre. Organisers encourage green travel to and from the event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

Marathon
Marathon
Half Marathon
Half Marathon
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Explore the woods around Slindon with South Downs Orienteers on Saturday 15 November, with multiple courses to suit all abilities. Juniors can enter free with a special code; contact the organiser if you need one.

Join a guided 10km trail run around the Devil's Punchbowl in Hindhead, enjoying rolling hills and a scenic pause with great views. This friendly group paced run is led by an experienced guide and runs at sunset or by headtorch in winter.

Explore 30 miles of the Serpent Trail from Haslemere in a hilly, scenic group run through woodland, heath and views across the South Downs. Led by an experienced guide, this non race suits runners ready for long trail miles.

Join a guided Box Hill Vertical KM group run near Dorking for a tough 12.5 mile route with about 1000 m of climb through woods, heath and open fields. Enjoy expert guidance, technical terrain and a social finish.