Grim Reaper Running Festival
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Event overview
The Grim Reaper Running Festival takes place at Grimsthorpe Castle Estate, Bourne, South Lincolnshire on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 May 2026. The event offers multiple solo distances and a team option. All finishers receive a medal; trophies are awarded to first, second and third in male and female solo categories and to winning teams.
Distances
- 10 miles (day)
- 10 miles (night)
- 40 miles (solo)
- 70 miles (solo)
- 100 miles (solo) and 100-mile team relay (teams up to 5)
Course and facilities
The race uses a fully marked 10-mile loop per lap. Terrain includes grass trails through ancient woodland, limestone tracks, quiet estate roads and a section along a disused Victorian railway line; the route skirts an estate lake and starts/finishes in front of the castle. Elevation is about 550 ft per lap. Trail shoes are recommended, especially in damp conditions. There is an aid station at mile 5 with limited snacks, water and a toilet. Fully qualified medics will be onsite. The event is cupless; runners must bring their own cup. Camping on Friday and Saturday nights is included with entry; the camp area is close to the start/finish. A small car parking charge of £5 per car applies.
Entries, cut-offs and rules
Entries open 27 June 2025 and close 10 May 2026. The 70- and 100-mile races have a strict 28-hour cut-off; the 40-mile race has a strict 27-hour cut-off. Pacers are permitted on foot from mile 50 only, with one pacer at a time. Crew access is restricted to the start/finish area. Dogs are allowed only in the 10-mile solo races, must be kept on a lead and start at the back. Littering, cutting the course or stashing supplies on course will result in disqualification.
Mandatory kit (40, 70, 100-mile solo races)
Mandatory items include a fully charged mobile phone, survival blanket (minimum 1.4 m x 2 m), a primary headtorch (minimum 75 lumens) and a backup light, a long-sleeved baselayer separate to what is worn at the start, a waterproof jacket, and a carrying system for at least 1 litre of water. Mandatory kit is required for laps started after 6pm. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
