Shires and Spires Ultra Marathon, Marathon, Three Quarter Marathon, Half Marathon and 10k
About the Event
Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Northamptonshire, Shires and Spires Ultra Marathon offers an unforgettable running experience for trail enthusiasts. This 35-mile circular route starts and finishes at Naseby Village Hall, providing easy access to major motorways like the A14, M1, and M6. The event traverses through some of England’s most historic terrain, including Holdenby House, Althorp (the Spencer family home), and Cottesbrooke. The course is a mix of footpaths, country trails, and roads that wind through beautiful countryside on even years in a clockwise direction and anti-clockwise on odd years, offering runners unique perspectives each time they participate. In 2024, the race introduces fully tracked GPS devices for Ultra Marathon and Multiterrain Marathon participants. This innovation allows racers to navigate using real-time data while friends and family can follow their progress from home. Shires and Spires is a UTMB Index Race in the 50K distance category, adding prestige to this challenging journey through Northamptonshire's diverse terrain. The route features approximately 20 miles of cross-country trails and 14 miles of roads with an elevation gain and loss totaling +625m. Runners will encounter five checkpoints along the way where they can restock on water and snacks, ensuring participants are well-supported throughout their journey. All finishers receive a medal and exclusive Go Beyond Merchandise, while top male and female competitors earn additional prizes. Registration takes place at Naseby Village Hall from 2 pm to 4 pm on Saturday or pre-race day between 7 am and the start time of 8:30 am. Participants must confirm their mobile numbers and undergo random kit checks before setting off. With a cut-off time of nine hours, Shires and Spires challenges runners with rigorous physical demands while rewarding them with stunning scenery and historical landmarks along the way. This event is open to competitors aged 18 years or older who are ready for an epic adventure through Northamptonshire’s rolling hills and charming villages.
Races Offered
10k Single Entrant
May 09, 2027
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Distance —
10K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:30
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£26.64
Half Marathon Single Entrant
May 09, 2027
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Distance —
21.1K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:30
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£39.44
Marathon Single Entrant
May 09, 2027
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Distance —
42.2K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:30
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£50.04
Three Quarter Marathon (TQM)
May 09, 2027
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Distance —
31.6K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:30
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£45.04
Ultra Marathon Single Entrant
May 09, 2027
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Distance —
56.3K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:30
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£65.28
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for May in Northamptonshire.
thermostatTemperature
8.6° / 17.0°
wb_sunnyFeels like
5.7° / 14.0°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
10h 19m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
1.7 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
13.2 km/h (Gentle breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (4.2)
humidity_mid
Humidity
76.8%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
05:06
nightlight
Sunset
20:52
About Northamptonshire
Learn more about the host city, Northamptonshire.
Northamptonshire, or Northants, is a landlocked county in England. At the 2011 census, the county had an estimated population of 693,900.
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