Winter on the Downs

Winter on the Downs 55 Miles

The event is a single loop of 55 miles around trails in East Sussex and West Sussex, starting and finishing at Plumpton Racecourse in Lewes. The route is almost entirely off road, with terrain listed as 99% trail and 1% road. Surfaces include grass trails, farm tracks and woodland and chalk paths. The course includes about 7,000 ft of ascent and descent and is described as rolling hills with some longer, steeper climbs.

Weather at this time of year can be variable and may include wind, rain, sleet, freezing temperatures or snow. There are seven aid stations on the route. The organisers provide a signed and waymarked route through the South Downs National Park, live GPS tracking and chip timing, first aid and medical cover, event insurance, downloadable photos, a bespoke finisher medal and winner trophies. The race is a UTMB Index event and awards 3 ITRA points. A free shuttle bus runs from the finish to local hotels and Eastbourne Train Station.

Entrants must be at least 20 years old and need a qualifying marathon completed within the race cutoff in the previous four years; winter and night trail running experience is also required. Permits are granted through the ARC and a permit number was pending at the time of publication. Entry fees include a mandatory GPS tracker. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.