Question 1

What's the difference between trail running and road running?

Accepted Answer

Trail running takes place off-road on paths, tracks, fells and mountains. Terrain is uneven, climbs and descents are steeper, and pace is generally slower per mile than road running.

Question 2

Do I need special trail running shoes?

Accepted Answer

For occasional dry trails, road shoes are fine. For regular off-road running — especially fell, mud or technical terrain — trail shoes with aggressive lugs and a more protective sole are strongly recommended.

Question 3

What is a fell race?

Accepted Answer

Fell racing is a UK-specific style of mountain running held on open hill and moorland. Routes are often unmarked, navigation may be required, and full kit (waterproofs, map, compass) is mandatory for longer events.

Question 4

How do I get started with trail running in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Start with a local multi-terrain 5K or 10K to get used to uneven ground, then progress to longer trail races. Local fell-running clubs and Park Trail events are great entry points.

Trail Running Events in East Midlands 2026

Upcoming trail running events in East Midlands

4 x 5k Relay Race and a Fun Run of 1600 metres.

Crich Monument Race 2026

Spilsby Show 10K

Rolls-Royce Harriers Piggs Trophy 10km

The Good Race

Revesby Running Festival 2026

The RUN

Pine Forest 5K Trail

Rumble In The Jumble III

Phoenix Running Cambridgeshire Astro Dash

Dovedale Dipper

Short Tour of Bradwell

Castle Rock 10k 2026

Eccles Pike Race

Foxton Hound Ultra

Carsington Water 2026 Series

Phoenix Running Cambridgeshire Little Miss & Mister Runner

Stanwick Lakes Autumn Run

Chatsworth 10k & 3k

Norfolk Coastal Trail Marathon

Chelmorton Chase

Run Sandringham Half Marathon 2026

Run Sandringham 5K 2026

10k Brackley Chicken Run 2026.

The Drone Valley Trail Half Marathon

Rhino Run

Carsington Water 2026 Series

Remembrance Run

Heanor 10k

2026 Edwinstowe Christmas 10k Trail Race

Carsington Water 2026 Series

Run in the Forest

Other distances in East Midlands

Trail Running Events in other UK regions

Frequently asked questions