Grim Reaper Running Festival
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The Grim Reaper Trail Race
The Grim Reaper is a multi-distance trail running event at Grimsthorpe Castle Estate in South Lincolnshire on May 29 and 30, 2027. Runners may choose from the following solo distances and a team option:
- 10 miles day and night options
- 40 miles
- 70 miles
- 100 miles
- 100 mile team relay (teams up to five)
The course is a 10 mile loop covering grass trails through ancient woodland, limestone tracks, quiet estate roads and a disused Victorian railway line, and it skirts the estate lake before returning to the start/finish in front of the castle. The loop is described as undulating with 550 ft of elevation per lap. The course will be fully marked. Trail shoes are recommended, especially in damp or wet conditions.
There will be fully qualified medics onsite. Ultra-distance runners are expected to be largely self-sufficient; an aid station at mile 5 will offer limited snacks, water and a toilet. The event operates a cupless system so runners must bring a drinking container or cup.
Camping is permitted on the Friday and Saturday nights close to the start/finish area. Pacers are allowed on foot from mile 50 only, with one pacer per runner. Crew access is restricted to the start/finish area. Dogs are permitted only in the 10 mile solo races and must be on a lead; 10 mile runners must be 16 or older, ultra distances require runners to be 18 or older.
Cut-off times: 70 and 100 mile races 28 hours, 40 mile race 27 hours. Mandatory kit for the 40, 70 and 100 mile solo races is required from 6pm and includes items such as a fully charged mobile phone, survival blanket, primary and backup lights (headtorch minimum 75 lumens), a long sleeve baselayer, waterproof jacket and a water container with at least 1 litre capacity. Entry fees vary by distance and all finishers receive a medal; trophies are awarded to first, second and third in male and female solo categories and to winning teams where applicable. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
