Dunstable Downs Half Marathon
Race details
Next edition - 22nd June 2025
A trail half marathon with stunning views at National Trust's Dunstable Downs estate.
The fifth edition of the Dunstable Downs Half Marathon will take place on 22nd June 2025 at 09:00.
Our entirely off-road route provides a fantastic trail running challenge with ridgeline views, exhilarating descents and lung busting hills!
Half Marathon
£32/£30 (UKA Affiliated)
There's 26 weeks until this race, enter now while there's plenty of spaces available!
Key Information
Race held under UKA rules.
You will find Precision Fuel & Hydration products at all our aid stations. Check out their planner to tune up your race nutrition.
Launch Planner
Half Marathon Challenge
Our three half marathon races take place over a four-week period next summer, and we’re challenging you to complete them all!
With a total distance of 64km with 1,500m of elevation, you’ll experience some of the best trail running and views in the Chiltern Hills — plus, you’ll earn a special t-shirt!
The races are: Dunstable Downs Half (22nd June), Chiltern Ridge Half (6th July), Hughenden Valley Half (19th July) — Enter all three for just £86 (£80 affiliated)!
Image Highlights
Route Map
Event Downloads
Last updated - 5th Sept
Route Description
Our half marathon route begins at the National Trust centre within Dunstable Downs.
The first quarter of the race takes runners out to the Tree Cathedral, Bison Hill and back past the centre.
Runners then complete a full loop of Kensworth Quarry, passing our aid station at 10KM.
Upon rejoining the Downs the runners complete an out and back to Five Knoles and then back onto the lower Downs trails to run what was the first 5km, now in reverse.
Checkpoints
Keep scrolling for more event info
Aid stations
There is one checkpoint located at 10.7KM. The following items will be available at this location:
- Water
- Coke
- Precision Fuel & Hydration - PF 30 Gels
- Jelly babies
Event base
The race is held at the National Trust Countryside Center at Dunstable Downs.
There is an on-site cafe open from 10am, serving hot and cold food after the race.
Car parking is available on site (£3.50 or free for National Trust members), along with toilets and a bag drop facility for runners.
Required gear
All runners will be required to carry the following items for the entirety of the run:
- Mobile phone (recommended)
- Digital route map on watch/phone (recommended)
- Reusable cup/bottle for aid station (recommended)
Entry details
Registration is £32 (or £30 to UKA affiliated runners), runners must be aged 17 years or older.
- Entry to the half marathon race
- Event permitted by the TRA
- Finishers medal
- Timing with live results
- One on-route aid stations
- Course wide medical support
- Bag drop at the event base
Event FAQs
We've answered some common questions below. Please contact us if you have any further queries.
How difficult is this race?
The half marathon route is set on hilly terrain and this race will test your leg strength and climbing ability. The majority of the elevation is concentrated in the first and last 5km, with a much flatter mid-section around the quarry. We advise runners to take the uphills easier and hike were required in order to preserve energy and speed for the flat and downhill sections.
Where can toilets be found at this event?
There are permanent male/female toilet facilities available at Dunstable Downs, situated next to the registration and start/finish.
There are no toilets directly on the route, however you do run very close to the main toilets at ~5km and ~12km into the race.
Are there changing facilities available?
No, unfortunately we cannot provide changing facilties at Dunstable Downs.
How can I attend this event without a car?
Tring train station is the closest station to Dunstable Downs and is a 15 minute taxi journey away.
What footwear should I wear at this race?
Please wear trail running shoes for this race. The footpaths are uneven and steep in places.
What prizes are awarded at this event?
There are awards for the top three male and female finishers overall, along with age category awards for FV40, MV40, FV50, MV50, FV60, MV60, FV70, MV70.
How do I follow the route using my phone or watch?
Most GPS watches allow you to upload a GPX file of the route for you to follow whilst running. Typically this is done by loading the GPX file into the app (i.e Garmin Connect), and then syncing your phone/watch together.
If you don't have a GPS watch we would recommend using OS Maps (£20/year) or Strava Premium (£48/year).
Withdrawal options
By entering our race, you agree to the following withdrawal policy. This policy applies to all runners with the exception of women of cannot compete due to pregnancy.
*Entrants to The Ridgeway Challenge are entitled to defer their entry for up to 2 years, or receive a 90% entry voucher to use on any Runaway Racing event.
Credits can be used on future race entries, any time during the following 2 years.
Withdrawal requests must be completed online via our manage booking functionality.
Manage Booking
Brilliant event, very hilly at the end, but a really great course and exceptionally well marshalled - can't wait to sign up next year.
Lisa
Dunstable Downs Half, 2023
Another classic race from you guys. What an event...the weather, the views, the hills, the rivers, the puddles and the amazing marshalls. Thank you
Simon
Dunstable Downs Half, 2021
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Past results & photos
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