Three Shires Way Ultra & Marathon
Hanslope, United Kingdom • 20 Jun 2026
Event
The Three Shires Way Ultra & Marathon is a point-to-point trail event on 20 June 2026 along the Three Shires Way through rural landscapes and ancient woodlands in Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire. Distances offered:
- 50 miles
- Marathon
The 50-mile route links with the Swan’s Way, follows county boundaries at Threeshire Wood, includes a 12.4 mile loop around Grafham Water and has an added section to reach 50 miles. The marathon route starts at Yelden and both races finish at Marlow Park, Grafham Water. Both races are licensed by the TRA and will be held under UKA rules.
Entries and logistics
Entries are available via Let’s Do This and are priced at £70 for the 50-mile event and £40 for the marathon; club members affiliated to UK Athletics receive a £2 discount. Minimum ages are 20 for the 50-mile race and 18 for the marathon. The race cut-off times are 14 hours for the 50 miler and 8 hours for the marathon, with progressive cut-offs at checkpoints. No pacers are permitted. Entries and transfers close seven days before the event. Coaches will run from the finish to the start locations; coach places cost £14. Parking at the finish is available to runners at a reduced price of £5 for the day.
Support, kit and prizes
Professional first aid will be available at the start and finish with course access, and volunteers will staff aid stations offering hydration and nutrition. Mandatory kit includes a fully charged mobile phone, water bottle or bladder (minimum 1 litre), survival blanket and whistle; races are cupless so runners must bring their own cup. Recommended or 50-mile specific items include a waterproof jacket, long-sleeved base layer or fleece, reflective top or bands, hat and gloves, and a headtorch. Prizes are awarded to the top three male and female finishers in each race and all finishers receive an event medal. Free digital race photos will be available after the event. Charity support for 2026 focuses on two local foodbanks, with entrants given the option to donate. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.