Five Rivers Ultra

Embark on a stunning and serene ultra-marathon adventure along one of England's most unspoiled coastlines at the Five Rivers Ultra on May 16-17, 2026. This unique point-to-point trail race offers three classic distances—100 miles, 50 miles, and 50km—all meticulously designed to showcase the tranquil beauty of the Suffolk and Essex coast as they circumnavigate five picturesque estuaries: the Alde, Butley, Deben, Orwell, and Stour. More than 85% of the route is on soft, flat trails through the Dedham Vale and Suffolk Coast & Heaths Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, providing excellent running conditions with sparkling estuary waters almost always in view. Under the dedicated new management of experienced ultra-runners, the event emphasizes safety and support with mandatory GPS trackers, well-spaced checkpoints offering snacks and drinks, and the warm welcome of a hot meal at the finish line in historic Harwich. With generous time limits suitable for both runners and brisk walkers, it's an inclusive challenge that invites you to cover long distances at your own pace through landscapes of heathland, forest, marsh, and iconic coastal villages like Orford and Woodbridge. The event also carries a thoughtful ethos, with a portion of each entry fee donated to the River Stour Trust to help protect the beautiful landscapes you run through. For those seeking a long-distance trail challenge that trades mountain climbs for miles of captivating, flat coastal scenery and a deeply peaceful atmosphere, the Five Rivers Ultra is a truly special and rewarding destination event.