Winter on the Downs

Winter on the Downs

Winter on the Downs features three single-loop trail races through the countryside of East and West Sussex. The events start and finish in the seaside town of Eastbourne, with the race headquarters located at East Dean Village Hall. Participants traverse a variety of terrain, including grass trails, farm tracks, and woodland paths.

The routes begin by crossing the Seven Sisters before heading toward Plumpton. These courses are designed to take advantage of the eastern side of the South Downs, an area noted for having a dry climate and terrain with efficient drainage. While some sections may become wet or muddy, the ground is generally considered runnable throughout the year.

The available distances include:

• 50 km
• 55 miles
• 100 miles

These races are included in the South Downs Triple Crown, a series that requires completing three ultra-distance events within a single calendar year. Entry for the 100 mile distance is open to those aged 21 and over, while the 50 km and 55 mile distances are open to those aged 20 and over. Participants should prepare for variable winter weather conditions, which may include wind, rain, fog, or freezing temperatures. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.