The Big Cheese
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The Big Cheese : event overview
The Big Cheese is a 15 mile off-road fell race across the Mendip Hills with over 2,000 feet of climbing. The event is a Fell Race Category B, licensed by the TRA and run under UK Athletics rules. The course is fully marked and marshalled; parts of the route run on paths that are not rights of way. A medal is included with entry and tea and cake are included at the finish.
The race starts on Warrens Hill, with the first two miles climbing onto the Mendips, and finishes at Fairlands Middle School. Home-made cakes will be available for purchase at the finish.
Logistics and facilities
Registration is based at Fairlands Middle School. Entry fees shown are £24 (discounted rate until 9 April 2026) and £26 standard; total places are 350. Runners must be over 18 on the day and unaffiliated entrants incur an additional £2. Race numbers may be transferred up to one week before the event.
Facilities at Race HQ include baggage storage, changing, showers and indoor seating; toilets are provided at the school and at Warrens Hill. Water stations and snacks (including vegan options) are located at miles 4, 7 and 11. The event has a four-hour cut-off and a sweeper. Public parking is in the main car park next to the Riverside pub (BS27 3PX), about a ten-minute walk from the registration; the car park has 129 spaces and a stated all day charge. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.