Centurion North Downs Way 50
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Event overview
The North Downs Way 50® is a point-to-point 50 mile (81 km) trail race on Saturday 16 May 2026. The route follows the North Downs Way National Trail from Farnham in Surrey to Knockholt Pound on the outskirts of Greater London. Total climb is listed as 5,600 ft (approximately 1,700 m). This is the 15th running of the event and it is the second race in the 50 Mile Grand Slam. The course reflects the first 50 miles of the NDW100. The terrain is roughly 80% trail and 20% road. The published entry fee is £115 (UKA discounted) or £117 unaffiliated. Entries open 21 June 2025 and close 4 May 2026; the SiEntries list shows 181 participants so far. Minimum age is 20.
Route, support and rules
The route passes Puttenham, Guildford, Ranmore Common, Box Hill, Colley Hill, Merstham and Oxted before finishing behind Knockholt Pound Village Hall. The race is course marked with North Downs Way signposts, Centurion arrows and ribbons, but runners are responsible for their own navigation. There are six fully stocked aid stations offering hot and cold drinks, gels, bars, sandwiches and options for vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diets. Runners must finish within a 13 hour time limit and there are additional cut offs at aid stations.
Pacers and crews are not permitted and spectators are not allowed near check points. Mandatory kit must be carried at all times, including a charged mobile phone, at least 1 litre water capacity, survival blanket, waterproof jacket, whistle, headtorch (min 100 lumens), cup and the supplied GPS tracker; a one hour time penalty applies for missing items. Medical cover is provided along the route and at the finish. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.