The Maverick Dark Castle Trail 2026 - Saturday

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at The Maverick Dark Castle Trail 2026, taking place on Saturday, November 21, 2026, in the stunning surroundings of Wareham, Corfe Castle, Dorset! Organised by Maverick Race, this popular event returns for its fourth year, offering a unique running experience that combines breathtaking scenery with a touch of history. Participants will race from the iconic Corfe Castle, an early Norman fortress that has stood for centuries, providing a picturesque backdrop as runners navigate the beautiful trails of the Purbeck Hills. Whether you opt for the Long or Middle routes, prepare to be captivated by the stunning views and the exhilarating challenge of the muddy and tight trails. As you run through the enchanting landscape, keep an eye out for the local wildlife, including herds of Sika deer. With distances suitable for all levels of runners, this event promises to be both fun and fulfilling. After your run, enjoy hot food and drinks, cozy up by the fire pits, and soak in the festive atmosphere. Don’t miss out on this remarkable experience that combines fitness, nature, and community spirit! Please note that this event is not dog-friendly.

The Maverick Dark Castle Trail 2026 - Friday SATURDAY 21 NOVEMBER 2026 CORFE CASTLE Back for its fourth year, and due to popular demand we have added a Friday evening run! The Maverick Dorset Dark Trail has become one of the most unique Maverick events in our calendar! We are extremely lucky to have been given the opportunity to race from the iconic Corfe Castle, so this is the perfect opportunity for anyone wishing to check out the ruins up close. Soaring above the village of Corfe, the early Norman castle is an unforgettable sight. Corfe Castle was built in the reign of William the Conqueror to control passage through the Purbeck Hills via a road between Swanage and Wareham. There was a fortress at this spot long before the Normans; however, there may have been a Roman military presence here, and certainly there was a wooden palisade here as early as the 9th century. As you leave the stone bridge and head down through the beautiful village of Corfe, you find yourself heading across Corfe Common and towards the quaint village of Church Knowle, before heading up onto the ridge at Knowle Hill with sweeping views across Purbeck. You will see the lights of Poole Harbour in the distance and the glow of Corfe Castle to your right. The Long and Middle routes continue along the ridge to Stone Hill Down, before meandering through some tight single track towards the famous Blue Poole. The trails here are muddy and tight, making the Darkness feel exhilarating. These sections of woodland and open heath are home to herds of Sika deer, so don't be alarmed if your head torch shines on lots of eyes watching you from the woodland. The trail conditions on this route are going to be soft & muddy during the month of November, but there are a few sections of the route that are hard-packed or on road. Regardless, the routes are suitable for all levels of runner. There will be hot food and drink back at the venue, fire pits for roasting marshmallows and a real festive vibe. We really hope you will join us for this fantastic event. Please note this is NOT a dog-friendly event, we are unable to have dogs within the event venue.