5K Running Events 2026–2027

Where is it? Sence Valley Forestry Park is a Forestry England site with a café and toilets near Ibstock, Leicestershire. Use the post code LE67 6NW for Sat Navs . It is here  on What 3 Words. You do have to pay to park, it costs between £2.20 and £4.50 (correct at time of writing).  That said, be a hero and car share, save money and the world! It is 11 minutes from Ashby-De-La-Zouch and 12 minutes from Junction 22 of the M1. The closest train station is Loughborough. What’s a 6 hour event? I’ve made a short video here to try to explain a little. It is an event that enables all abilities of runner to run together (or hike/walk!). Ultimately you can run as many 5k laps as you wish in the time limit. You can run one lap in 20 minutes, pick up your medal and Big Bear drink and go home! Alternatively you can head out on your 15th lap at 14:55 and finish in 6:30 having covered over 50 miles! It’s completely up to you. There is no pressure from us, but we’ll also see if you want one more lap! The format is great for people looking to run further than they’ve ever done before, do a long training run for future events or to enjoy a sociable event with your friends. Can I run with my dog? Yes!! We’ve had great success at events with canicross and we’re pleased to add this event too. You must keep your leads short and be considerate of the other runners. We’ll start the canicross runners off with the main field. If your dog won’t respond well to this consider starting a few minutes later or don’t bring your dog. It’s important that the dogs, you and the other runners have a pleasent day! Please read our general canicross rules here. Please make sure you enter the canicross specific race when you click on the enter button above. Course description The route takes in all of Sence Valley Forest Park, an old mine. As with many of these old mines there are a few chunky climbs! the course starts with a long downhill and goes around the pools at the bottom of the park. It then climbs out the back of the park through the young trees and you will run down the middle of the pine forest. The lap finishes by returning up the hill you started coming down. Underfoot it is mainly crushed stone paths of varying degradation. There are sections that are on grass - depending on how wet it has been these may be slippy and muddy. We’ll know more closer to the time but be prepared for this to be a trail shoes course. Unaffiliated entrants pay £2 extra. Why not join your local running club or sign up the Big Bear Brigade and save 10% off entries for ever! How far is the race? You decide! The 3.3-mile off-road loop means your race can be 5k or even over 80K and anywhere in between. You decide how many laps you're going to do on the day within the 6-hour time limit. If you're looking to cover a marathon distance you'll need to complete 8 laps and a half marathon will be 4 laps, anything 9 laps and over is an ultramarathon! Do I have to raise money or run for charity? No… BUT! We have a great partnership with Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity. They provide specialist nurses and support for seriously ill children. There are currently over 200 Roald Dahl Nurses caring for more than 40,000 seriously ill children. During the sign up process you can opt to set up a Just Giving page to raise money for Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity or to make a small donation alongside your entry fee - 100% of that goes straight to the charity to help with their amazing work. We want to help them towards making sure every seriously ill child has a Roald Dahl Nurse. If you want to find out a little more about our partnership click here. Has the event been run before? Yes but… not since 2019! The course will be slightly different as some of the course wasn’t event owned by Forestry England when we were last there! You can view previous results and the course records here. I’m unsure what to expect at a 6 hour event? We’ve made some videos to try and help newcomers understand Big Bear Events and 6 hour events a little more here. We’ve got lots of videos on our You Tube channel that might help you see what we’re all about!. I’ve heard you do nice medals. What will it look like? Once it’s in our hands we’ll share the design with you! (You’ll love it though!) I’m not that fussed by a medal… In that case our partnership with Earth Runs will be perfect! Rather than give you a medal you don’t really want (and to help reduce waste) we’ll give you a Big Bear Tree Token. Not only will a tree be planted for each token given out but the token is also full of wildflower seeds for you to grow at home! Is there a gpx of the route? The route gpx can be found here or visit plotaroute.com here. The route may be subject to last minute changes and there will be plenty of markings up on race day so you do not need to have this - but I know some of you like to anyway! Is this event suitable for Rucking? Definitely! Read all about how we do rucking here (or if you’ve no idea what rucking is find out here too!) I really want to take part in the event but the day isn’t convenient for me! What can I do? We’ve partnered with our friends at Skamper to offer On-demand events! It’s not quite the same as being there on the day but it’s the next best thing! Using the Skamper app you can be directed around the route on a day of your choosing. When you sign up we’ll send you the medal in the post that was given out on the day of the event. This way when you finish you’ll be able to claim the medal you’ve earned for the run straight away! Why not load your car boot with snacks and goodies, get some mates to join you and have your own Big Bear event! Full details on our Big Bear On-Demand events is here. I still have questions… Then why not join our Big Bear Events Facebook group and ask our ever so experienced runners in there or email us directly here. We want you to enter with the confidence you’ll have a great (if not tiring!) day so are happy to answer any question we’ve not covered off here.

From Run Fanatics

ABBATHON brings together the fun of an ABBA tribute show with the buzz of a 5K or 10K run. Whether you’re a seasoned runner, a complete beginner, or simply a devoted ABBA fan, ABBATHON is designed to be welcoming, accessible and full of feel-good energy from start to finish. Run, jog, walk or dance your way around the course through one of the city’s most iconic parks, with ABBA hits keeping the atmosphere high every step of the way. Whether you’re chasing a PB, running your first 5K, or just here for the ABBA vibes, ABBATHON is all about enjoying every step. We’re taking the tribute act out of the pub and into the park for the whole family to enjoy, combining live music, a DJ, on-course music guides, professional photography and finisher’s medals to create a fully immersive themed race experience. What to Expect: 💃 Dress the part (optional)– Come in your favourite ABBA-inspired outfit or recreate one of their iconic retro looks! 🎵 Music to set the mood – The atmosphere starts strong with ABBA’s biggest hits playing at the start line. 🎤 ABBA Tribute Performance & Warm-Up – Our ABBA tribute act will perform live for at least 45 minutes before the race kicks off – the perfect way to warm up and get into the groove! 🏃 Music Guides – Run alongside our music guides, each carrying a speaker, so you can enjoy music as you run! While we can’t guarantee music coverage for the entire route, our team will be spread out to keep the tunes going. 📸 Free Event Photographs – Professional photographers will capture some of the best running moments. Photos will be available for free on our website within 72 hours after the event to share and treasure. ⏱ Chip-timed race – For those chasing a PB or wanting to track their pace, all runners will be provided with race bibs featuring chip timing. You’ll receive your official time after the run, so you can see how you did – whether you're racing competitively or just curious. 🏅 Special-Edition Finisher’s Medal – A one-of-a-kind medal inspired by iconic ABBA elements. The perfect keepsake to show off your ABBATHON pride! 🍉 Post-Race Refreshments – Refuel with fresh fruit after you cross the finish line. 👕 Limited Edition ABBATHON Finisher’s T-Shirt (£19.99 extra cost) ✨ An inclusive, fun-filled atmosphere – Whether you're running, jogging, or walking, this event is for ABBA fans of all fitness levels. From the live tribute performance to the music around the course and finisher’s medal, ABBATHON is a feel-good running experience like no other. Don’t miss your chance to be part of it.

Kick-start your October racing season at the Meadows 5K & 10K in the heart of Edinburgh. Hosted by Up and Running Events, this flat, fast, and friendly race is perfect for runners of all abilities — whether you're chasing a new PB or taking on your first 5K or 10K. Set on the smooth, tree-lined paths of the iconic Meadows, the course offers ideal racing conditions and a vibrant event atmosphere. The 5K and 10K routes follow a clearly marked, multi-lap course designed for great pacing and strong support throughout. All runners will receive chip-timed results, a finisher’s medal, professional photography, and full on-course support. With easy access from the city centre and a buzzing event village, this is the perfect Edinburgh race to add to your 2026 calendar. Secure your place and join us on the start line this October.

Get ready to jump, bounce, slide and swing through the World's BIGGEST and CRAZIEST Inflatable 5k Obstacle Course! The Inflatable 5k Obstacle Course is coming to Cheltenham on Saturday 10th October 2026 and it's going to be Epic! The obstacles are BIGGER, BOUNCIER and BETTER than ever before! You'll be jumping, sliding and laughing all the way to the finish line. Grab your friends, family or tackle it on your own. Lace up your trainers and get ready for the ultimate day out! **The inflatable 5k is open for ages 5 - 15 years old. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult at all times (3:1 child:adult ratio)** DISTANCES 2.5KM | 5KM | 10KM | 15KM

Join us for Tatton Park 5k & 10k on Saturday 10th October 2026 Come and join us for the return of the Tatton 5k & 10k. This undulating, road closed race set at the beautiful Tatton Park in Cheshire is a perfect opportunity to set yourself a personal best over the 5k or 10k distance. The races start, run around the roads inside and finish within the park's grounds. The races are accurately measured and chip timed. Start Times 08:45 am - 10k 09:05 am - 5k Race End 11:00 am

Pure Running, Precisely Measured. MCTF Run The Track 5km & 10km Step onto the track and rediscover what running is really about. Our 5km and 10km races bring the sport back to its purest stage — a proper athletics track, a limited field, and every single lap that matters. Held across the country through late summer and autumn, these relaxed afternoon races run from 2pm/2:30pm with racing complete by 5:30pm, and they're open to every kind of runner — whether you're chasing a personal best or simply lacing up to enjoy the distance at your own pace. Every heat is set by expected finishing time, so you'll always be running alongside similarly paced runners, and with deliberately small fields you'll never be lost in a crowd — just you, the track, and the steady rhythm of the laps ticking by. Every runner gets the full championship treatment. Personal split-lap chip timing captures each and every lap, so you can see exactly how you paced your race from start to finish, while overall chip timing gives you a clean, accurate finish time to be proud of. Cross the line and you'll earn a bespoke medal, custom-designed for the series and yours to keep as a mark of the day. No traffic, no potholes, no getting lost — just flat, fast, honest running on a surface built for it. With early-entry places from just £17 for the 5km and £23 for the 10km, it's premium racing at a friendly price. Limited places, big atmosphere — secure your spot and run your best.

Good Running Events looks forward to welcoming thousands of runners of all abilities and ages back to the streets of Peterborough City Centre, for the return of the Great Eastern Run – which will host a Half Marathon and will aim to raise many thousands of pounds for good causes. Taking place on Sunday 11th October 2026 and organised by Good Running Events, the Great Eastern Run is a major event in the UK running calendar. With a start and finish at the Embankment, the event boasts a super flat and fast route around the streets of Peterborough City Centre. Don't miss it! Registration Open: 8.00am Annas Hope 5K Fun Run Start: 9:00am Half Marathon Start: 10.30am

JOIN US FOR THE RETURN OF THE RUN HEATON 5K, 10K, HALF MARATHON & KIDS RACE 2026 SERIES ON SUNDAY 11th OCTOBER 2026! This large park, just north of Manchester and home to a Grade 1 listed neoclassical 18th-century house, is the perfect setting for a fun day out. Running on the paths within Heaton Park, this race is a great opportunity for a chip timed personal best. There will be refreshments and a fantastic themed Heaton Park medal. START TIMES: Half Marathon – 9.30am 10k – 10:00am 5k – 10.10am Kids- 12:00pm

Priya's Birthday Biryani Dash Change of location for this event. The venue of this event is Hardy Farm. Vegan Biryani included for early birds!! 50 Early birds (first 50 entries) will get Vegan Biryani from Fozia's Kitchen along with their medal! So, don't leave it too late. We have brought this event back as it was hugely requested as people loved the biryani run in 2025. Start time: "Rock up and run" when you're ready 8.30am onwards. All runners should be finished by 3.30pm. We don't have official start time, if you have any special requests on start times, please email us and we will do our best to accommodate you. Aid Station As always, we'll have a well-stocked aid station available all day for everyone, regardless of distance. Options usually include crisps, pretzels, cookies, biscuits, bananas, squash, water, and more. Facilities Toilets and registration will be at Hardy Farm.  Parking: Car parking for 75 cars in Hardy Farm. Public parking available in Sale Water Park.   An email briefing will be sent 7 days in advance with all up to date information.

Join us for Newcastle Town Moor Half Marathon, 10k, 5k & Junior Race on Sunday 11th October 2026 Race in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne on a fast, flat course that links the historic grounds of Exhibition Park with the open expanse of Town Moor. With the city skyline around you and views toward St James’ Park, this is a standout autumn run for PB chasers, first-timers, and club runners. Expect smooth park paths, clear signage, and a friendly atmosphere from start to finish. Closed routes within the parkland keep things simple and supportive, with enthusiastic marshals and great spectator spots to lift every kilometre.

Phoenix Running Bedfordshire is inviting you to join us for our Freaky Phoenix Friday!! This is one of our timed events where you choose - from 5km to 10k, half to marathon to ultra, you can complete as many or as few laps as you like of a 5.3km, 3.28 mile, lapped course around the beautiful Trails of Old Warden. We welcome all abilities of runner - complete one lap and you're both a finisher and a winner in our eyes, or keep going and see how far you can get in the full 7 hour time limit and everyone gets the fabulous bespoke finishers' medal. We also operate our uniquely flexible 'rock up and run' start times within a 1 hour start window, so no waiting around if you arrive early and no added pressure if you're running a bit late. If you have any special start time requirements then just get in touch because depending on the distance you are planning to run we can pretty much accommodate all start time requests. Whilst Phoenix Running Bedfordshire is very much about the bling and our medals are second to none, we're also acutely conscious that events can be expensive to enter and times are tough right now. So to try and do our bit we're trailing a 'no medal' entry option at a flat £22. We cover our base costs, you get a run with all the usual Phoenix support, epic aid station, same day results published, athletes profiles, Phoenix World, digital BIBs, digital finishers certificates, etc, etc but without a medal we can keep the price low for this entry option. Not sure? Well the beauty of this format is that you don't even need to decide in advance - simply come and run a lap and see how you feel on the day and keep on going if it feels right. Places are strictly limited to 75 so don't leave it too late to enter. Start : 8:00am (registration open from 7.30am). Minimum distance is 3.28 miles or as far as you can go in 7 hours. Terrain is Off Road Trail.

Get ready to light up your Friday night at the brand-new ATW 5K & 10K Neon Run, an exciting evening running event coming to Cyclopark in Gravesend. Join us on Friday 16th October 2026 at 7PM. This event is designed to combine running, music, lights, and a party atmosphere, making it the perfect way to kick-start your weekend. Whether you’re a regular ATW runner, completely new to running events, or simply looking for a fun and different experience, the Neon Run is all about enjoying the journey as much as the finish line. The best part is, you will receive a free neon light bundle with your entry ticket! What to Expect Runners can choose between a 5K or 10K distance, with both races starting together at 7:00PM. The course is a 2.5km lap. The event will take place on a closed track, offering a wide, smooth, tarmac path and accessible course that’s ideal for beginners, social runners, and those looking to take on a new challenge. To keep energy levels high throughout the evening, there will be four music stations positioned around the track, providing motivation and a great atmosphere every time you pass by. Every participant will receive a neon light bundle included in their entry, ensuring the track comes alive with colour as the sun goes down. There will also be a bar and food van available on site, giving runners and spectators the chance to relax, refuel, and enjoy the evening. Once the races are complete, the night will continue with a mini post-race party so everyone can celebrate together. Registration and Event Day Information Registration will open at 6:00PM, one hour before the race start, giving participants plenty of time to arrive, collect their running number, and pick up their neon light bundle. All race materials will be collected on the evening during this registration period, allowing you to get set up, warm up, and soak in the atmosphere before heading to the start line. What’s Included in Your Entry Every runner who takes part in the ATW 5K & 10K Neon Run will receive a neon glow stick bundle, a custom-designed medal to mark the occasion, along with finish line goodies and chip timing. All participants will have access to free event photos. These photos will capture the unique neon atmosphere and provide a lasting memory of a truly special event. After the Finish Line The fun doesn’t stop once you’ve crossed the finish line. Runners are encouraged to stay and enjoy the post-race mini party, where music, food, drinks, and a great community atmosphere will round off the evening. It’s the perfect chance to celebrate your achievement with friends, family, and fellow runners. Who Is This Event For? This event is perfect for anyone looking to try something new, whether that’s your first ever running event or your next ATW challenge. It’s designed to welcome newcomers while also giving regular ATW runners a fresh venue and a unique Friday-night race experience. We’re excited to be bringing this brand-new event to Essex and to welcoming runners old and new! Join us on Friday 16th October 2026 and be part of a glowing night of running, music, and celebration at the ATW 5K & 10K Neon Run. ATW Community At ATW we think of our participants as a community and we love to hear about the community's dreams and achievements. If you'd like to share those dreams and achievements you can do so on any of our social media platforms. Equally if you'd like any advice about your upcoming event you will almost certainly find someone who can provide some guidance. Links to all our social media platforms are at the bottom of the page, including to our ATW Chat Facebook group, which might be the most interactive platform if asking for help. Event Organiser ATW was established in 2011 by James Shipley. We have now become a national events company in the UK, specialising in Running, Triathlon, Duathlon, Aquathon, Cycling, Swimming and all permutation of swim-bike run events. With over 40,000 entries a year ATW has become a firm favourite amongst people who are determined to Dream, Believe and Achieve.

The Yorkshire Weekend Saunter Series 2026 “Your Distance, Your Pace, Your Weekend” Looking for friendly, scenic running events in Yorkshire? Join us in 2026 for the Yorkshire Weekend Saunter Series – the perfect way to spend your Saturday or Sunday morning running, jogging, or walking at your own pace. Event Highlights - Choice of 5K, 10K, or Half Marathon distances - Scenic Yorkshire weekend routes with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere - Suitable for all running abilities – from beginners to seasoned racers - Finisher rewards: Jumble medal, hot food, and your choice of beer or soft drink - Flexible entry options – pay online in advance or simply rock up and run on the day Race Day Details Location: TBC Date- 20th Sept 26 Pay on the Day Prices - 5K Run – £12.00 | Registration: 8:00am | Start: 8:45am - 10K Run – £17.00 | Registration: 8:00am | Start: 9:00am - Half Marathon – £23.00 | Registration: 7:30am | Start: 8:30am Whether you’re chasing a new PB, enjoying a social jog with friends, or simply soaking in the Yorkshire countryside, the Weekend Saunter Series is the event for you.