Immerse yourself in the historic charm and natural beauty of East Sussex as you lace up your running shoes for an unforgettable steeplechase through the ancient trails around Rye. Scheduled for Sunday, September 13 at 09:30 AM, this race offers runners a unique blend of challenging terrain and breathtaking scenery. The event takes place in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where you'll traverse picturesque landscapes that wind between the Norman churches of Rye, Iden, Beckley, Northiam, and Peasmarsh. The course begins on the bustling high street to the rhythmic calls of the Town Crier before venturing into serene woodlands, orchards, and quiet country lanes. Runners can choose from two distances: a grueling 30k (slightly over) or a more manageable but equally scenic 15k. Both routes feature varied terrain with significant elevation gains totaling around 1,500 feet, making this an adventure for seasoned trail runners looking to push their limits. The race is not just about the physical challenge; it's also deeply rooted in community spirit and support. Local charities benefit from fundraising efforts, volunteers provide essential marshalling along the course, and Girl Guides offer a warm welcome with tea, coffee, and cake at the finish line. Upon crossing the finish, participants will receive a bespoke medal commemorating their achievement. Additionally, there are free photographs to capture your moment of triumph, as well as trophies and prizes for top performers in various categories. Entry fees vary based on distance: £40 for the 30k race and £35 for the shorter 15k option. Please note that due to limited availability, early registration is recommended. For those interested in detailed route maps or GPX files, these can be downloaded from the official event website prior to your run. All registered participants will receive comprehensive information ahead of the big day to ensure a smooth and enjoyable race experience. Join us for an inspiring journey through history and nature that celebrates both personal achievement and community support.
Races Offered
Rye Ancient Trails 15K 2026
Sep 13, 2026
straighten
Distance —
15K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
29 days remaining
sell
£29.00
Rye Ancient Trails 30K 2026
Sep 13, 2026
straighten
Distance —
30K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
29 days remaining
sell
£33.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in East Sussex.
thermostatTemperature
12.1° / 19.4°
wb_sunnyFeels like
10.0° / 16.9°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
8h 44m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
3.3 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
15.1 km/h (Gentle breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (3.5)
humidity_mid
Humidity
81.4%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
06:34
nightlight
Sunset
19:11
About East Sussex
Learn more about the host city, East Sussex.
East Sussex is a county in the South East of England. West Sussex is to the west, Kent is to the north-east and Surrey is to the north.