Stanhope Trail Races
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Event Overview
The Stanhope Trail Races take place in Stanhope, a market town in the Durham Dales. The event features a 10k and a Half Marathon distance on trail routes. The races are part of a series exploring Weardale and the North Pennines, run in partnership with the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
Route Description
Both races start a short walk from the parking area at Stanhope Showground. The initial route crosses fields below Ashes Quarry before climbing up East Lane onto open moorland. The routes reach the top of Collier Law before separating.
The 10k route descends via the Stanhope fell race route, described as tricky, before reaching single-track woodland paths and passing a waterfall. It follows a burn back to the main road into Stanhope.
The Half Marathon route continues climbing to Parkhead Station café, where food and water are available. It then heads towards the old winding station at Bolt's Law, following a trail across moors before rejoining the 10k route for the finish.
Terrain and Kit
The terrain includes hard-packed gravel shooting tracks, sheep trods, and muddy woodland trails. Trail shoes are recommended. All events go onto open moorland where it can be very cold.
Mandatory kit for all participants includes a foil blanket and mobile phone. For the Half Marathon, an additional warm base layer, waterproof jacket, emergency snack, hat, and gloves are required.
Venue and Sustainability
The event starts and finishes at Stanhope Showground, Unthank Park. Parking is available on the showground, with additional areas in Stanhope town centre if needed.
The organizer is an eco-friendly company. They do not use disposable plastic cups or offer T-shirts as standard. Race goodies include a packet of mixed wildflower seeds for participants to plant. The event is held with consideration for the environment, local economy, and wildlife as part of the North Pennines AONB Responsible Tourism Charter. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Included with Entry
- Feed stations with water, chia bars, crisps, sweets, and fruit.
- A fully waymarked and marshalled route.
- Medical cover.
- An event memento.
- Wildflower seeds.
- A choice of complimentary race day cheesecake or crumble.
