Kent Down 50 Ultra Challenge

Event Details

The Kent Downs 50 Ultra Challenge takes place on Saturday, 10 October 2026. It is a looped trail run or walk event starting and finishing at the Kent Showground near Maidstone.

Distances and Course

The event offers three distances on a looped course:

• 50 km with approximately 1000 m of elevation.
• 25 km with approximately 450 m of elevation.
• 10 km with approximately 200 m of elevation.

The main 50 km route goes anticlockwise around the Kent Downs area. It follows parts of the North Downs Way to Blue Bell Hill, follows the River Medway to Mote Park, and passes Leeds Castle before returning to the finish line.

Event Features and Support

The event includes a basecamp at the Kent Showground with weekend camping options, parking, and a bar. Support services on the route include covered rest stops approximately every 12.5 km with food, drinks, seating, toilets, and medical teams. Participants receive snacks, a picnic lunch at the 25 km point for the 50 km distance, and a finisher's meal. The route is marked with signs and participants can use a GPS tracking app.

All finishers receive a medal, a finisher's t-shirt, and a glass of fizz. There are specific categories for walkers aiming for a fast pace (Ultra March®) and for competitive runners (Ultra Trailblazerz®). Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.