Kent Down 50 Ultra Challenge

Maidstone, United Kingdom • 10 Oct 2026

Event overview

The Kent Downs Ultra Challenge is an Ultra Challenge Series event based at a Maidstone basecamp with start and finish at the Kent Showground, Maidstone. The event offers looped distances of 50 km, 25 km, and 10 km, and is scheduled in October. Options include walking, jogging or running, a Solo Challenger start option, an Ultra March category for walkers, and a Trailblazerz competitive option. Weekend camping, parking and transfer services are available at basecamp. Finishers receive a medal and t-shirt and there is on-site food and a bar.

Course, support and practical details

The main 50 km route is a loop around the Kent Downs. The route follows the North Downs Way to Blue Bell Hill, passes Aylesford, follows the River Medway to Mote Park (halfway picnic), continues along the Len Valley Walk to Leeds Castle, then returns on the North Downs Way to the showground finish. Approximate elevation figures are: 50 km ~1000 m, 25 km ~450 m, 10 km ~200 m.

Rest stops are covered and manned, with toilets and medical support. Typical provisions include regular snack stops every ~12.5 km, a picnic at 25 km, hot and cold drinks and a finishers meal. The route is fully signed and includes GPS tracking via the event app. Example self-funded registration fees listed are £139 for 50 km, £89 for 25 km, and £39 for 10 km. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

50 km
1000 m+
50 Km - Kent Downs Loop
25 km
450 m+
25 Km - Kent Downs Loop
10 km
200 m+
10 Km - Basecamp Loop
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Enjoy a 60 minute score orienteering course through woodland and open slopes at Trosley Country Park on the North Downs. Choose from 20 controls, hunt bonus dumbbells and race the clock in scenic terrain.

Run the Leigh on Sea after dark 10k or 5k on 2 November 2025, with a juniors 5k for ages 11 to 15. Headtorches are mandatory, fancy dress is encouraged and every finisher gets a quirky not medal while proceeds benefit Southend YMCA.

Navigate ancient woodland, parkland and meadows at Dagnam Park in the HAVOC Regional and SWELL orienteering event with waterproof maps and SI timing. Courses suit beginners to experienced orienteers and help and coaching are available.

Take part in a woodland night score at Westerham: 60 minute navigation to collect as many 10 point controls as you can from 20 locations. Limited entries, book online in advance; apres and prize giving at The Carpenters Arms.

Scenic timed loop around Canvey Island via sea wall and coastal path, starting and ending at Waterside Farm Leisure Centre. Counterclockwise, self supported and with a pub check in near 10k for a top up and friendly course sweep.

Explore runnable forest at Shoreham Woods with courses for all abilities and a one hour score challenge. Online entry only; trails are shared with walkers, riders and bikers and have some steep slippery slopes.