The Great Barrow Challenge returns for its tenth day at Suffolk Running Centre on August 7, 2027, offering runners an unforgettable experience along the scenic Hargrave Half route and the challenging Mount Barrow course. This exclusive venue invites participants to choose their distance and pace over a ten-day period filled with diverse routes. On this specific day, runners will have the option of tackling either the Hargrave Half or Mount Barrow courses, both offering unique terrain and stunning views. The Hargrave Half is a 21.3 km loop that covers quiet lanes exclusively, featuring an elevation gain of 183 meters. This route provides a mix of rolling hills and flat stretches, making it ideal for those aiming to push their limits over the half marathon distance. For those looking for something shorter yet equally rewarding, Mount Barrow presents a challenging out-and-back course measuring 10.5 km with an elevation gain of 168 meters. This route offers runners breathtaking views as they ascend and descend through high points reaching up to 89 meters above sea level. Participants can download the GPX file from the "course" tab on the Zig Zag Running website for detailed navigation assistance, ensuring a smooth run along both routes. The race day experience includes complimentary parking at Suffolk Running Centre, located at Church Road in Bury St Edmunds. The Race HQ and base camp are situated near the start line where runners can access water stations and aid during their runs. To ensure an eco-friendly event, participants are encouraged to bring reusable bottles or cups for hydration throughout the course. The Great Barrow Challenge also features bespoke medals awarded at the finish line on each day of participation, celebrating every runner's achievement in style. Please note that no dogs or buggies are permitted along these routes due to safety concerns with open roads. Additionally, headphones are not allowed except for bone conduction devices to maintain awareness and ensure a safe running environment. For those interested in virtual entry options, Zig Zag Running provides an alternative way to join the event from any location around the world through their website's shop section. Join us at Suffolk Running Centre on August 7, 2027, as we celebrate The Great Barrow Challenge with runners from all walks of life.
Races Offered
Bespoke Event Medal
Aug 07, 2027
straighten
Distance —
Bespoke Event Medal
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
332 days remaining
sell
£38.00
Lucky Dip Medal
Aug 07, 2027
straighten
Distance —
Lucky Dip Medal
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
332 days remaining
sell
£35.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for August in Bury St Edmunds.
thermostatTemperature
13.3° / 22.4°
wb_sunnyFeels like
11.3° / 19.7°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
10h 27m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
1.5 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
14.8 km/h (Gentle breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (4.9)
humidity_mid
Humidity
70.9%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
05:42
nightlight
Sunset
20:19
About Bury St Edmunds
Learn more about the host city, Bury St Edmunds.
Bury St Edmunds, or simply Bury, is a historic market town of 40,000 people (2011) in the county of Suffolk, in England. The town's medieval heritage is still visible in much of the street plan of the town centre which has not changed in 1000 years. Bury is also famous for its floral displays, and has won many awards for these, including the prestigious 'Nations in Bloom' title, contested by towns and cities worldwide.