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01/17/2022 | News release | Distributed by Public on 01/18/2022 03:55

The most unique running events to take on in 2022 (tried and tested)

For many, running delivers a great sense of freedom as well as a sense of achievement, whether out for a casual bimble or crossing a finish line. Over the last few years, however, there have been fewer finish lines to cross due to running events being cancelled or postponed because of the pandemic. Now that 2022 is here, many runners are looking to enter races and start collecting medals again.

There are so many incredible running events in the UK, it can be hard to know which to sign up to. Maybe you want to spread your wings and run somewhere other than your local routes. Perhaps you want to push your limits with a new distance or switch from road to trail. You may have a staycation already booked and want to spice it up with a new PB.

We asked our running community to help us compile a list of the best running events in 2022 that not only give you a chance to get the good endorphins going but will create lasting memories too.

From 5k to ultramarathons and everything in between, check out these unique running events in the UK happening in 2022.

Run Alton Towers

Head to Alton Towers theme park and complete a 5k, 10k or half marathon run and not only will you get a medal at the end, but you will also get free unlimited access to the rides too. The faster you run, the more time you will get on the rollercoasters!

When: 12th and 13th November 2022

Where: Alton Towers, Staffordshire, England

How: Sign up to the Alton Towers 5k, 10k or half marathon here

MOKRUN - Mull of Kintyre

Ready to up your distance from a 5k? The MOKRUN has a 10k and half marathon option on a reasonably flat course, which takes you along the sandy beach. Stunning views and a friendly, exciting atmosphere await followed by Danish pastries and ceilidh dancing as you finish.

When: 29th May 2022

Where: Kintyre, Scotland

How: Sign up to the MOKRUN here

MONTANE Summer Spine Race

The MONTANE Summer Spine Race is not an event to take lightly. If you're ready to take on an ultramarathon, the Spine Race gets the votes from our running community. The 156 hour race starts at Edale and ends in Kirk Yetholm along the iconic national trail of the Pennine Way. The summer version of this event is the friendly one, if you are tough enough check out the winter race which has already taken place in January this year and keep an eye on entries for 2023.

When: 19th June 2022

Where: Edale, Derbyshire, England

How: Sign up to the Montane Summer Spine Race here

Coopers Hill Cheese Rolling

Love running and love cheese? This could be the unique event you are looking for. Whilst not strictly a running event, it sure ticks the challenge box as you chase after a wheel of cheese. If you dare, you can run downhill with a huge crowd cheering you on, racing other runners to get to the bottom first! Be prepared to come away with cuts and bruises...

When: 30 May 2022

Where: Cooper's Hill, Gloucester, England

How: Turn up on the day (find out more here)

Manvers Dusk Till Dawn

We love the idea behind the Manvers Dusk till Dawn - completing as many laps of the as many 3.21 mile (5k) laps of the lake as you can between 6PM on Saturday and 6AM on Sunday. Stop when you need to, start again if you can and try to be the person to run the most!

When: 23rd July 2022

Where: Wath-upon-Dearne, Rotherham, England

How: Sign up to the Manvers Dusk till Dawn here

Chester Zoo 10k

If you love animals why not spend the morning running around a zoo! Similar to the Alton Towers Run, your race entry covers your event as well as entry to Chester Zoo once you are finished. 25% of your entry fee to the race also donated to the zoo to help fund their conservation projects.

When: 6th February 2022

Where: Chester Zoo, England

How: Sign up to the Chest Zoo 10k here

The Barry Track 40

Many runners head to the running track when completing interval training, some runners race short distances whilst others run 40 miles. Yep, The Barry Track 40 is a 40 mile ultramarathon held on the running track at the Jenner Park Stadium in Barry. Organised by Les Croupions Running Club, the event has been taking place annually for years! If you're keen to sign up, be quick as places are limited.

When: 6th March 2022

Where: Barry, Wales

How: Sign up to the Barry Track 40 here

The Dramathon

The Dramathon is a marathon distance running event starting from Glenfarclas distillery to Glenfiddich distillery, with several other distilleries along the route. If you're a fan of whisky, take on the 'wee dram', 'half dram', 'full dram' (10k up to 42k) or compete as part of a relay team. Soak up the views, take in the atmosphere and drink up at the end.

When: 15th October 2022

Where: Ballindalloch, Scotland

How: Join The Dramathon waiting list here

Sandman Torchlight Trail

Head to Wales for this next unique event to run 5k or 10k along the trails. But this isn't a regular trail run, as you'll be setting off under the moonlight through the trees of Newborough Forest and by the sand dunes. Strap on a head-torch and enjoy the calm surroundings.

When: 10th September 2022

Where: Anglesey, North Wales

How: Sign up to the Sandman Torchlight Trail run here

Race to the Castle

Breathtaking scenery awaits you as you run across stunning moorland, through ancient woodland to the coast at the Race to the Castle event. 100km is no mean-feat but the support and positivity on this journey from other runners as well as the organisers and spectators will ensure you tackle it with all you can muster and remain is good spirits.

When: 28th May 2022

Where: Northumberland, England

How: Sign up to the Race To The Castle here

The Green 26.2 Mile Shepton Mallet

Can you do the time? Back by popular demand, the prison marathon is like no other. Run laps of the abandoned Shepton Mallet prison and climb multiple sets of stairs to complete a marathon distance. The date is to be confirmed but keep an eye on the event website as entries will likely sell out quickly.

When: TBC

How: Sign up to the Prison Marathon when entries open

Join the conversation

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