Three Shires Way Ultra & Marathon
Hanslope, United Kingdom • 20 Jun 2026
Overview
The Three Shires Way Ultra & Marathon takes place on Saturday 20 June 2026. The event follows the Three Shires Way through rural landscapes and ancient woodlands across Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire, finishing with a loop around Grafham Water.
- 50 Mile Ultra
- Marathon
Starts are point-to-point: the 50 Mile Ultra starts at Hanslope Village Hall, the Marathon starts at Yelden Village Hall, and both finish at Marlow Park, Grafham Water.
Entries, rules and logistics
Entries are open with prices of £70 for the 50 mile event and £40 for the marathon; a £2 discount applies to runners in UK Athletics affiliated clubs. Minimum ages are 20 for the 50 mile and 18 for the marathon. Entry transfers close seven days before the event. Both races are licensed by the TRA and held under UKA rules. No pacers are permitted. Cut-off times are 14 hours for the 50 mile and 8 hours for the marathon, with progressive checkpoint cut-offs.
Coaches run from the finish to the start locations for a fee (£14). Parking at the finish is available to runners at a reduced price of £5 for the day.
Course, support, kit and other details
GPX files for both routes are provided. The ultra follows a 49 mile section of the Three Shires Way plus an added section to make 50 miles; the finish includes a 12.4 mile loop around Grafham Water. Professional first aid will be available at start and finish and volunteers will staff checkpoints with hydration and nutrition. Mandatory kit includes a charged mobile phone, water container (min 1 litre), survival blanket, whistle and a personal cup. Additional 50 mile requirements include a long sleeved top, reflective top or bands, hat and gloves, and a headtorch; a waterproof jacket is suggested. Prizes will be awarded to the top three men and women in each race and all finishers receive an event medal. Free digital race photos will be available after the event. Charity partners for 2026 are Jubilee Foodbank, Market Harborough, and Weston Favell Centre Foodbank, Northampton. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.