Crikey its the Christmas Cracker Day 1

Get ready to celebrate the festive season with the Christmas Cracker Run, taking place on Saturday, December 12, 2026, in the picturesque Kirkstall, Leeds! Organised by It's Grim Up North Running, this fun and friendly trail running event is perfect for runners of all abilities. With a variety of distances to choose from, including 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, and even a full Marathon, there’s something for everyone, whether you're aiming for a personal best or just a joyful run in the holiday spirit. The course is flat and scenic, following the beautiful Leeds & Liverpool Canal, making it an ideal setting for both new and experienced runners. Participants can expect a vibrant atmosphere at Race HQ, complete with festive music, delicious food, and seasonal treats to keep you energized. Plus, all finishers will receive a bespoke Christmas medal and festive goodies! Join us for Day 1 of this exciting 'Christmas Cracker Weekend' and make unforgettable memories while running through the charming trails of Leeds. Don't miss out on this festive celebration—mark your calendars and get ready to run!

Christmas Cracker Run – Kirkstall, Leeds | It's Grim Up North Running Get into the festive spirit with the Christmas Cracker Run in Kirkstall, Leeds – a fun and friendly trail running event perfect for all abilities. Whether you’re chasing a new PB, testing yourself over a longer distance, or simply looking for a festive fun run near Leeds, this event has something for everyone. Expect a jolly Christmas atmosphere at Race HQ, complete with music, food, and seasonal treats . The course is flat and scenic, following the beautiful Leeds & Liverpool Canal, making it ideal for both new and experienced runners. This event marks Day 1 of the ‘Christmas Cracker Weekend’, part of the It’s Grim Up North Running series. You can run on one or both days – the choice is yours! What’s Included - - Elevation: Flat (ish) - - - Terrain: Good trail, canal-side paths - - - Feed & Drink Stations: Every 3 miles (please bring a reusable cup or bottle – we’re a cup-less event) - - - Fully Marshalled & Signed Course - - - Bespoke Christmas Medal and festive treats for all finishers - Getting There - - Nearest Train Station: Headingley Station (Northern Service) - - - Registration Location: ///deny.epic.able- Hollybush conservation centre, Broad Lane, Kirkstall, Leeds, LS5 3BP - - -   - - -   - - - By Car: There is no parking at the start/finish. We recommend parking at Morrisons car park nearby. - - - Car Sharing: We encourage runners to car share to reduce congestion and environmental impact. - Race Times & Distances Registration opens at 7:40am – please allow around an hour to park, register, and use the facilities. - - - - - - Distance - - - Start Time - - - Entry Fee - - - - - - - - - 5K - - - 8:45am - - - — - - - - - - - 10K - - - 10:00am - - - — - - - - - - - 10 Miles - - - 8:45am - - - — - - - - - - - Half Marathon - - - 9:00am - - - — - - - - - - - 20 Miles (2 x 10 mile) - - - 8:45am - - - — - - - - - - - Marathon (2 x Half Marathon) - - - 8:30am - - - — - - - - - - -   - - -   - - - — - - - - - - -   - - -   - - -   - - - All races are Trail Running Association licensed under UKA Rules. During the Race – Important Info - - Cup-less Event: Please bring your own reusable cup or bottle for drinks at aid stations. - - - Headphones Policy: For safety, no over-ear headphones are allowed. If you must wear earphones, please use bone-conduction or one-ear in/out. - - - Safety: Some unmarshalled road crossings may be present – please stay alert and follow marshal instructions. - - - Transfers & Deferrals: You can self-manage your entry on the It’s Grim Up North website Late changes on race day may incur a £5 admin fee. - - - Retiring or Injured? Notify the nearest marshal immediately. - Stay Connected For the latest updates, FAQs, and community support, join our “Grim Up North Chat” Facebook group. Most race information is available online, so we no longer mail out race briefs.