Westcountry Ultra Hilly 50 miler

Westcountry Ultra Hilly 50

The Westcountry Ultra Hilly 50 miles is a trail ultramarathon around Minehead, Somerset, with approximately 7337 ft of elevation gain and a 16 hour cutoff. The race starts and finishes at West Somerset College and follows a partly out-and-back route with an additional one-way loop.

The route passes coastal sections, ancient woodland and moorland. Notable places on the course include Bossington, Porlock Weir, Culbone with the UK’s smallest parish church, Horner village, Webber’s Post and the route over Dunkery Beacon. Early sections include a few miles of flat tarmac and a stretch alongside Minehead seafront before climbing North Hill and descending Bossington Hill. The course then continues across Porlock marshes and into long forest and moorland sections with steep climbs and descents.

There are six staffed aid stations, and the race is cupless so runners must carry at least one bottle and a cup if required. Aid stations provide water, coke, squash, sandwiches and a range of snacks. Course markings are provided where needed; the South West Coast Path section has established signage and a GPX file is supplied with race information. Professional medics cover the event and 999 should be used for emergencies.

Pacers are not permitted. Support crews are allowed and may hand supplies to runners; supporters are welcome but should respect local parking and residents. Drop bags can be left at registration. Suggested kit includes a waterproof jacket, warm layers, headtorch with spare batteries, high visibility clothing, whistle, compass, charged mobile phone and at least one 500 ml water bottle. Trophies are awarded to the first male and first female finishers and all finishers receive a medal. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.