Butcombe Trail Ultra
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Trail Ultramarathons in the Mendip Hills
The Butcombe Trail Ultra features two self-navigation ultramarathon courses set within the Mendip Hills, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The event utilizes a route that criss-crosses the Mendips, primarily on off-road terrain, offering views across the countryside. The courses follow a trail originally devised as a hiking route that connects several local pubs.
Participants can choose between two primary distances:
- 50 Miles (approx. 80 km)
- 50 Kilometres
Both distances alternate directions periodically and will run anti-clockwise for the 2026 edition, starting and finishing at the Mendip Activity Centre in Churchill. These races serve as qualifying events for the UTMB and sister races, with the 50 Mile race categorized as a 100 km index race and the 50 km as a 50 km index race.
The event is organized by Town and Country Harriers, a trail-running club. All runners are provided with tracking devices to assist with timing accuracy and safety. For the 50 Mile distance, participants must have completed at least one trail marathon since January 2025. While there is no specific qualification for the 50 km, runners must be confident in their self-navigation skills.
The race follows a pregnancy refund policy and welcomes guide runners for visually impaired or disabled participants. Mandatory kit must be carried by all athletes throughout the duration of the event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
