In the world of ultramarathons, the UK offers a unique stage for the most audacious of runners. The 100-mile races here are the pinnacle of endurance challenges, where athletes navigate rugged terrains, historic trails, and their own limits. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the most iconic 100-mile races in the UK, from the enchanting Scottish Highlands to the rugged Lake District. Whether you’re an experienced ultramarathoner seeking a new challenge or simply captivated by the idea of pushing boundaries. These races promise to inspire and awe. Join us as we explore the world of 100-mile races and the extraordinary individuals who conquer them.
A list of The Most Iconic 100 Mile Races in The UK
Races are listed in alphabetical order.
Arc of Attrition
Distance: 100 miles (160.934kms)
Elevation gain: 13,156ft (4010m)
Website: https://www.mudcrew.co.uk/events/arc-of-attrition/
The Arc of Attrition is an extreme coastal race set to take place on January 27, 2023. It covers a distance of 100 miles with a significant elevation gain of 13,156 feet (4010 meters) along the stunning and challenging Cornish Coastpath. This race is known for its adverse winter weather, long periods of darkness, and demanding technical terrain. While featuring continuous and steep ascents and descents. It serves as a qualifier for events like UTMB and Western States. The event is organized by Mudcrew events and has gained popularity due to its enthusiastic organizers and a growing community of dedicated runners and supporters.
Autumn 100
Distance: 100 miles (160.934kms)
Elevation gain: 5,000ft (1500m)
Website: https://www.centurionrunning.com/races/autumn-100-2023
The Autumn 100 is a grueling 100-mile continuous trail race set in the twin villages of Goring and Streatley along the River Thames. The course is designed in the shape of a cross and guides runners through four distinct 25-mile out-and-back sections, utilizing segments of the Ridgeway and Thames Path National Trails. Starting in Goring, participants journey to Little Wittenham on the first Thames Path section before returning to Goring. The second, more challenging leg leads to Swyncombe Farm on the Ridgeway, followed by another return to Goring. The third spur takes runners west along the Ridgeway to Chain Hill before the final leg on the Thames Path to Reading and back for a total of 100 miles.
While the course can be flat and fast in dry conditions. Runners must contend with up to 13 hours of darkness, potential low temperatures, and varying ground conditions. The race provides ample support, including 16 well-stocked aid stations, full medical assistance, course markings, and existing National Trail waymarkers.
Beacons Way Ultra 100
Distance: 100 miles (160.934kms)
Elevation gain: 20,154ft (6,143m)
Website: https://www.gbultras.com/beacons-way-ultra-100/
Introducing the Beacons Way Ultra 100, an extraordinary 106-mile adventure across the stunning landscapes of the Brecon Beacons National Park. This race, accessible through application only, begins at the historic ruins of Abergavenny Castle and follows the Beacons Way National Trail, featuring 10 essential checkpoints along the way. It’s a classic race that conquers South Wales’ highest peaks, including the majestic Pen-y-Fan standing at 886 meters and the awe-inspiring Carmarthen Fans. With an impressive 6,143 meters (20,154 feet) of elevation gain over the course of 100 miles. Notably, the Beacons Way Ultra 100 is a designated 2024 UTMB Mountain Points Race and awards ITRA Points. Plus, for added convenience, optional transport back to the starting venue is available after the event. Don’t miss this chance to explore the picturesque Brecon Beacons in an epic ultrarunning experience.
Centurion Track 100
Distance: 100 miles (160.934kms)
Elevation gain: 0ft (0m)
Website: https://www.centurionrunning.com/races/centurion-track-100-2022
The Centurion Track 100 is a renowned 100-mile ultramarathon held on a track, known as one of the world’s most prestigious track 100-mile races, emphasizing optimal conditions for record-setting performances. It includes official record-ratifiable splits at various distances along the route. Notably, in 2021, it witnessed world and national records, with Aleksandr Sorokin and Samantha Amend achieving remarkable feats. The race follows a tradition from the 1970s and 1980s when some of the fastest British 100-mile times were recorded. It holds Gold Label certification for the 100-mile event and 12-hour mark from the IAU and adheres to UKA standards, with a 17-hour cutoff for the 100-mile distance.
Chester Ultra 100
Distance: 100 miles (160.934kms)
Elevation gain: 4,950ft (1509m)
Website: https://www.gbultras.com/chester-ultra-100/
The Chester Ultra 100 is an impressive 100-mile endurance race that explores some of the most picturesque trails in the region, including the Sandstone Trail, Marches Way alongside the River Dee, Helsby Hill, Frodsham, Beeston Castle, Delamere Forest, and the Bridgewater Canal. With a total elevation gain of 4,950 feet and 10 checkpoints along the way, this race promises a challenging but rewarding experience. Participants have the opportunity to earn a coveted 100 Mile Belt Buckle as they navigate the course, and live online GPS tracking via GB Race Tracker allows friends and family to monitor their progress. The event is supported by the dedicated GB Ultras team, and support crews and pacers are welcome. Additionally, it offers ITRA and UTMB mountain points for qualified runners.
Montane Lakeland 100
Distance: 105 miles (168.981kms)
Elevation gain: 20,669ft (6300m)
Website: lakeland100.com
The Lakeland 100, also known as the ‘Ultra Tour of the Lake District,’ is a challenging 100-mile trail race that traverses the entire Lake District fells, covering about 6300 meters of ascent. Starting in Coniston, the route takes runners on a clockwise loop through picturesque valleys and lesser-known areas of Cumbria, avoiding popular summits. The race is continuous, with a 40-hour time limit and 14 mandatory manned checkpoints offering food and support. Despite its deceptively manageable time frame, the rugged terrain, elevation changes, darkness, and navigation difficulties lead to a 40-50% failure rate, making completion a highly prized achievement for experienced ultra-distance runners.
North Downs Way 100
Distance: 103 miles (165.762kms)
Elevation gain: 11,000ft (3350m)
Website: https://www.centurionrunning.com/races/north-downs-way-100-2023
The North Downs Way 100 is a challenging 103-mile continuous trail run along the North Downs Way, spanning from Farnham in the Surrey Hills to Ashford in Kent, with a total elevation gain of 11,000 feet. Starting in Farnham, the course winds through picturesque English countryside, passing through villages like Puttenham and Guildford. Runners then face the steepest ascent at Box Hill, followed by a descent and another climb to Reigate Hill. The route continues through Merstham, Oxted, and reaches the 50-mile mark at Knockholt Pound on the outskirts of Greater London. It then heads through Wrotham, Holly Hill, crosses the Medway Bridge, and covers the final 25 miles towards Dover. Predominantly on trails, with stops in Detling, Hollingbourne, Harrietsham, and Charing. Before concluding in Ashford at the Julie Rose Stadium. The race is held under a UK Athletics Permit granted through the TRA.
South Downs Way 100
Distance: 100 miles (160.934kms)
Elevation gain: 12,700ft (3800m)
Website: centurionrunning.com/races/south-downs-way-100-2022
The South Downs Way 100 is an annual 100-mile foot race along the entire South Downs Way National Trail in Southern England. The race offers stunning views of rolling hills, ancient forts, picturesque villages, and expansive landscapes, covering a total elevation gain of 12,700 feet (3800 meters). It starts near Winchester and ends in Eastbourne, following the chalk ridgeway. The race is well-supported with 12 aid stations, medical assistance, and course markings. It is a UTMB and Western States qualifier and has similarities to the Western States race in the USA, featuring fast, runnable trails and high temperatures. The men’s course record is held at 14:03 hours. The race is organized by Centurion Running and is known as the premier race in the South of England. It has been growing in popularity and may see new records in the future, with the potential return of top athletes like Tom Evans.
Thames Path 100
Distance: 100 miles (160.934kms)
Elevation gain: 1,900ft (560m)
Website: https://www.centurionrunning.com/races/thames-path-100-2023
The Thames Path 100 is a 100-mile continuous trail race that follows the scenic Thames Path from London to Oxford, featuring a total elevation gain of 1,900 feet. This annual race, now in its 12th year, offers a marked point-to-point course starting in Richmond, South West London, and concluding in Oxford. The route meanders along the Thames River against its flow, providing runners with picturesque English riverside scenery and glimpses of life along the Thames. The majority of the course consists of well-groomed paths, trails, and paved pathways, making it a flat and fast journey through some of England’s most beautiful river landscapes.
Ultra Scotland 100
Distance: 106 miles (170.59kms)
Elevation gain: 15,128ft (4,611m)
Website: https://www.gbultras.com/ultra-scotland-100/
Ultra Scotland 100 offers a remarkable 106-mile ultrarunning experience along the picturesque Southern Upland Way, commencing in St John’s Town of Dalry and concluding in Melrose. This challenging course includes iconic British trails like the daunting Benbrake, Gateshaw Rig, the formidable Lowther Hill (standing at 701 meters), and the scenic Minch Moor. Along the way, runners will also explore the enchanting paths around Daer Reservoir, Three Brethren, and St Mary’s Loch. This event, supported by GB Ultras, is a true landmark race in Scotland. The Southern Upland Way is well-marked as one of Scotland’s Great Trails, and participants can earn UTMB and ITRA mountain points. Ultra Scotland 100 invites adventurers to embark on an epic journey through Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes. Making it a must for trail running enthusiasts.
Ultra-Trail Snowdonia by UTMB®
Distance: 103 miles (165.762kms)
Elevation gain: 33,500ft (10,200m)
Website: apexrunning.co/events/ultratrailsnowdonia
Ultra-Trail Snowdonia by UTMB® is a challenging race with a distance of 103 miles and an elevation gain of 33,500 feet (10,200 meters). It’s part of the UTMB race family and is designed to offer an experience similar to the renowned Chamonix race without the need to travel across the channel. While it shares similarities with UTMB in terms of significant elevation changes. It stands out for its more technical terrain, making it a formidable challenge. In 2021, the men’s winner completed the race in 29 hours, and the women’s winner in over 45 hours, highlighting its difficulty. This race is considered one of the largest 100-mile races in the UK and attracts top running talent from all over Europe. It’s a true test of endurance and skill.
Yr Wyddfa Ultra 100
Distance: 100 miles (160.934kms)
Elevation gain: 18,990ft (5,788m)
Website: https://www.gbultras.com/snowdon-ultra-100/
The Yr Wyddfa Ultra 100 is a challenging 100-mile race in Snowdonia National Park with 5,788 meters (18,990 feet) of elevation gain. It revolves around the iconic Snowdon mountain, the highest peak in England and Wales. Participants can run solo, in pairs, or as part of a team. Aiming to ascend and descend Snowdon multiple times within 24 hours. This UTMB indexed race offers various distances (50k, 100k, and 100 miles) and is suitable for both qualification and preparation for UTMB Mont Blanc. Solo runners and relay teams (pairs and teams of up to five) can compete, with shared timing chips for pairs and teams to ensure a competitive experience.
Conclusion – 100 Mile Races in the UK
In the realm of ultramarathons, the UK serves as a captivating stage for audacious runners, offering a collection of iconic 100-mile races that challenge both body and spirit. From the formidable coastal terrain of the Arc of Attrition to the scenic trails of the South Downs Way 100, and from the rugged Scottish Highlands in Ultra-Trail Snowdonia to the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District in the Montane Lakeland 100. These races are extraordinary adventures that embody resilience and determination.
Each event possesses a distinct character, from the technical demands of Ultra-Trail Snowdonia to the gentler journey along the Thames Path 100. Whether you seek to conquer the heights of Snowdon in the Yr Wyddfa Ultra 100 or test your mettle on the track in the Centurion Track 100. All of these races showcase the remarkable diversity of UK ultramarathons.
These 100-mile races are not just about distance. They are celebrations of the unyielding spirit of ultramarathoners and the stunning landscapes that serve as their backdrop. Whether you are an experienced ultrarunner or simply intrigued by pushing your limits. These races promise to inspire and leave an indelible mark on your journey through the world of endurance sports. Join us as we applaud the extraordinary individuals who take on these challenges and the dedicated organizers who bring them to life. The stage is set, and the runners are ready. Are you prepared to witness the awe-inspiring feats that await?