Cotswold Way Ultra Challenge
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Event overview
The Cotswold Way Ultra Challenge takes place 13-14 June 2026 from a Cirencester basecamp in the Cotswolds. The event offers multiple distance options for walking, jogging, or running and includes a Solo Challenger start option, an Ultra March category for brisk walkers, and a new Trailblazerz category for faster competitive runners. The Cirencester basecamp is the start and finish for the full loop, and the event supports up to 2,000 participants. Basecamp offers camping, hostel-style accommodation, transfers, and parking.
Distances and route details
- 100 km - full continuous loop, ~2250 m climb.
- 100 km (2-day) - Day 1: 53 km, ~1600 m climb; Day 2: 47 km, ~650 m climb.
- 76 km - Painswick to Cirencester, ~1650 m climb.
- 53 km - Cirencester to Wotton, ~1600 m climb.
- 47 km - Wotton to Cirencester, ~650 m climb.
- 30 km - Painswick to Wotton, ~1000 m climb.
- 23 km - Cirencester to Painswick, ~600 m climb.
- 10 km - Cirencester loop.
Support and facilities
The route is fully signed and uses GPS tracking and an event app with maps and training guides. Rest stops are provided every ~12.5 km, with larger stops every ~25 km, and include marquee cover, catering, seating, medical and massage teams. Food and drink are supplied at regular intervals, and finishers receive a medal, T-shirt, and a finishers meal. Shuttle buses to nearby train stations and various bookable extras are available. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
