3) West Highland Way Race

This iconic point-to-point race runs 95 miles from Milngavie to Fort William. It starts fast and runnable but becomes brutally hard in the second half as fatigue meets rugged Highland terrain.

Entry is notoriously competitive, and the field is strong. This is a race steeped in history and prestige, finishing is a serious achievement.

Support crews are essential, adding a logistical challenge.

When: June 2026

Difficulty: Advanced

Best for: Advanced athletes pursuing a prestigious, historic 95-mile Highland achievement.

Why run it: Features a runnable start followed by a brutally rugged second half.

4) Granite Peaks Ultras

Choose 50 km or 80 km in the stunning Mourne Mountains of Northern Ireland, with rugged trails, forest tracks and panoramic peak views. This trail ultra blends significant climbs with technical mountain running, rewarding runners with views over Tollymore Forest and distant sea horizons. A perfect Northern Irish challenge that feels remote and wild.

Date: May 2026

Difficulty: Intermediate

Best for:  Intermediate trail runners seeking technical mountain terrain.

Why run it: Offers significant climbs with panoramic views over Tollymore Forest.

5) Ultra X England

Ultra X England 2026 is a thrilling trail-running adventure in the heart of the Peak District, offering distances from short trail runs to full 100 km ultras. With rugged terrain, stunning views, and a festival-like weekend atmosphere, it’s as much about the journey and camaraderie as the finish line. Perfect for first-timers and seasoned ultrarunners alike, this event turns every step into an unforgettable experience.

When: September 2026

Difficulty: Intermediate

Best for: Intermediate runners and trail lovers

Why run it: Offers a festival atmosphere and stunning ridge views.

6) South Downs 100km

The South Downs 100 km takes you on a rolling, point-to-point journey across England’s chalk hills and ridgelines, including the dramatic Seven Sisters cliffs and Beachy Head. Expect ups and downs, chalky paths that challenge your knees, and open vistas that make every grueling mile worth it. This race blends endurance with some of the country’s most iconic landscapes.

Date: May 2026

Difficulty: Intermediate

Best for: Intermediate runners wanting a rolling journey across iconic chalk hills.

Why run it:  Experience dramatic Seven Sisters cliff views and open, coastal vistas.

7) Lakeland 50 & Lakeland 100

The Lakeland races are true UK ultra classics. They circle the Lake District, linking remote valleys, mountain passes, and iconic fells.
What makes these races special is their balance: they’re tough, but never gimmicky. Aid stations are legendary for warmth and efficiency, and the community feel is exceptional.
The Lakeland 50 is a brilliant stepping stone into longer ultras, while the Lakeland 100 is often chosen as a first 100-miler thanks to its fairness and support.

When: July 2026

Difficulty Level: Novice

Best for: Runners seeking a community feel and legendary aid station support.

Why run it: A classic Lake District race linking remote valleys and iconic fells.

8) Hadrian’s Wall Ultra “The Wall”

Following the historic Hadrian’s Wall Path across northern England, this race mixes trail running with history, crossing Roman forts, dramatic ridgelines, and rural landscapes. Distances range from 50 km to 100 km, giving both mid-distance and ultra-distance runners an unforgettable challenge. The combination of rolling hills, rugged paths, and cultural landmarks makes it uniquely rewarding.

Date: Various 2026 options

Difficulty: Novice

Best for: Novices looking to combine long-distance running with ancient Roman history.

Why run it: Cross historical forts and dramatic ridgelines on rugged northern paths.

9) Spring Trail Series

A scenic spring ultra in the South Downs, offering distances from 12 km up to 110 km. Trails run through rolling hills, woodland, and rivers, with fully marked courses and friendly aid stations. Perfect for both beginners testing themselves on trail terrain and experienced ultrarunners chasing serious mileage.

Date: April 2026

Difficulty: Novice

Best for: Novice runners testing trail terrain or pros chasing high mileage.

Why run it: Enjoy rolling hills, woodland, and rivers with friendly aid stations.

10) Ultra X Wales

Based in the Brecon Beacons National Park, this festival-style two-day race offers 110 km, 60 km and 50 km distances across classic Welsh hills and ridgelines. The courses loop through remote valleys and over high ground, with great aid support and a strong sense of community at camp. Expect muddy singletrack, big climbs, and jaw-dropping views of South Snowdonia.

Date: July 2026

Difficulty: Intermediate

Best for: Intermediate runners wanting a technical two-day race with big climbs.

Why run it: Features muddy singletrack and jaw-dropping views of South Snowdonia.