The Packhorse Keg Run
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The Packhorse Keg Run 2026
The Packhorse Keg Run takes place on Saturday 11 July 2026 with the Packhorse pub serving as the start and finish. The event course runs off road between South Stoke and Midford and includes a final uphill finish on Old School Hill.
The event is a team time trial for three person teams. Teams set off at short intervals and are provided with two wooden beams, four straps and an empty keg. Teams run to the cider farm at Upper Midford where they are presented with a full barrel. Full barrel weights are 55 kg for men and mixed teams and 35 kg for women teams. After each team member consumes 0.5 pint of cider or a non alcoholic alternative, teams carry the barrel back to the Packhorse.
Fancy dress is compulsory. Entry categories are all men, all women, or mixed. Prizes will be awarded for fastest time in each category, fancy dress, best team spirit and wooden spoon. Entry is capped at 40 teams and there is a small non refundable charge of £45 per team. Based on the previous year teams took between about 20 and 45 minutes to complete the course; the fastest time in 2025 was 23 minutes 52 seconds and the slowest was just over 50 minutes.
A childrens event on Old School Hill will be held as part of the day. Parking near the pub is limited and the route will be stewarded at key points. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
