Chopwell Woods Christmas Trail Races

The Chopwell Woods Christmas Trail Races, held annually at Chopwell Woods near Rowlands Gill on the outskirts of Gateshead, offer a festive running event set in a scenic 360-hectare mixed woodland managed by Forestry England. The event features three distances: a 1-mile Santa run for children aged 3-11 (with a free accompanying adult), a 4-mile run for those over 11, and an 8-mile race for participants over 16. The course is Canicross friendly, allowing one controlled dog per runner.

All finishers receive medals, event merchandise, mince pies, chocolates, and drinks, creating a warm, family-friendly atmosphere perfect for a final run before Christmas celebrations. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.