Three Shires Way Ultra & Marathon

Event overview

The Three Shires Way Ultra & Marathon is scheduled for Saturday 20 June 2026. The event offers two point-to-point trail races along the Three Shires Way through Bucks, Beds and Northants. Distances on offer:

• 50 Mile Ultra
• Marathon

Both races are licensed by the TRA and will be held under UKA rules. Routes link with the Swan’s Way, cross the county boundaries at Threeshire Wood, and include a 12.4 mile loop around Grafham Water. The 50 mile route includes an added section via Hanslope village hall to reach 50 miles. GPX files for both routes are available for download.

Entry, course and logistics

Entry fees are listed at £70 for the 50 mile race and £40 for the Marathon; a £2 discount applies to runners in clubs affiliated to UK Athletics. Minimum ages are 20 for the 50 miler and 18 for the Marathon. Cut-off times are 14 hours for the 50 mile and 8 hours for the Marathon, with progressive checkpoint cut-offs. Entries and transfers close seven days before the event.

Both races finish at Marlow Park, Grafham Water. Coaches will run from the finish to each start and can be booked for an additional fee. Parking at the finish is available to runners for a reduced price.

Support, kit and extras

Professional first aid will be available at the start and finish, and volunteers will staff aid stations with hydration and nutrition. Mandatory or required kit items include a fully charged mobile phone, at least 1 litre water capacity, survival blanket, whistle and a personal cup (races are cupless). Additional mandatory items apply to the 50 mile race, including a long sleeve or fleece, reflective clothing, hat and gloves, and a headtorch. Prizes will be 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 made available after the event. Merchandise is available to pre-order before race day. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.