Durham 5 in 5 Days - Day 1

Welcome to the first day of the Dun Holm 5 in 5 Days Challenge, an exhilarating run around Durham that promises stunning scenery and a memorable experience for anyone looking to push their limits this May. This inaugural event celebrates the rich heritage of Durham itself with medals featuring iconic place names from around the city.
Whether you're taking on all five days at once or participating individually, there's no better time than 2027 to embark on this unique challenge. The official start is set for Thursday, 27th May, beginning at a brisk 9:30 AM.
Located in the heart of Durham, near Green Lane and Old Elvet, runners will gather at the Durham Amateur Rowing Club where members can enjoy an exclusive discount on entry fees—up to £10 off. Plus, all members receive a mini-me medal pin for each event attended throughout the series.
This 7-hour time challenge offers flexibility with your run distance, starting from just 3km and extending as far as you dare. The course is designed around a loop that can be repeated multiple times based on individual goals: three laps make up half-marathon territory, six laps cover marathon distances, while seven or more loops will earn ultra-runner status. A full lap measures approximately either 4.37 miles (or adjusted to 3.28 miles depending on conditions), ensuring a challenging yet scenic route.
The trail run along the River Wear offers breathtaking views of Durham Cathedral and its surroundings, fully marked for easy navigation without requiring any specific navigational skills. Whether you're an experienced runner or new to longer distances, this event welcomes all abilities with walkers also encouraged to join in.
Upon completion of at least 3km, every participant will receive a themed medal commemorating their achievement. For those who reach half-marathon distance and beyond, additional pins are available for collection, marking milestones such as the Half-Marathon, Mega-Half, Marathon, Ultra, or even the impressive 50km feat.
Finishers can look forward to a goody bag filled with treats at the end of their run. Vegan runners won't miss out either; special vegan-friendly options will be provided alongside standard offerings.
The aid table near the start/finish line offers an array of refreshments, including drinks and snacks like crisps, cheese, fruit, cookies, and more—many with vegan alternatives available to cater to diverse dietary needs.
If this event holds particular significance for you in terms of personal milestones (like your 50th marathon), we'd love to recognize it. Just let us know ahead of time so that a custom number can be prepared for the day.
Facilities at Race HQ include toilets and changing areas, with bag drop available near both start and finish lines—though please note bags are left unattended without staff supervision, so valuables should not be stored there.
Parking is available in nearby city center locations; however, participants must avoid using the rowing club car park for this event. Detailed race day instructions will arrive via email a week before the run, including information on number pick-up at registration on the morning of the event.
Join us and immerse yourself in Durham's beauty while challenging your endurance along its historic paths. See you there!