The Maverick Dark Castle Trail 2026 - Friday

Get ready for an unforgettable evening of adventure at The Maverick Dark Castle Trail 2026, hosted by Maverick Race on Friday, November 20, 2026! Set against the stunning backdrop of Corfe Castle in Dorset, this exciting event invites runners of all levels to experience one of the most unique trail runs in the Maverick calendar. The event features several race distances, ensuring there’s a challenge for everyone. As you embark on your journey, you'll traverse through the picturesque village of Corfe, across Corfe Common, and up to Knowle Hill, where breathtaking views of Poole Harbour and the enchanting Corfe Castle await. Expect to navigate through muddy trails and tight single tracks, with the thrill of the darkness adding to the excitement. After your run, indulge in hot food and drinks, cozy up by fire pits for marshmallow roasting, and soak in the festive atmosphere. Join us for this exhilarating event that promises to be a memorable experience! Please note that dogs are not allowed at the event venue.

The Maverick Dark Castle Trail 2026 - Friday FRIDAY 20 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.