Stanza Stones Ultra

Embark on a 50-mile literary and landscape pilgrimage through the South Pennines at the Stanza Stones Ultra on Saturday, June 6, 2026. This remarkable linear route connects the historic towns of Marsden and Ilkley, following in the footsteps of Poet Laureate Simon Armitage to visit all six of his "Stanza Stones"—poems about water carved into remote rocks by artist Pip Hall. You'll experience the raw beauty of high moorland, traverse iconic paths like the Pennine Way, and pass through the legendary village of Haworth, home of the Brontë sisters, all while conquering over 6,800 feet of ascent on a journey that is as much a cultural exploration as an endurance test. The event is a true celebration of the region's heritage, offering a unique fusion of extreme trail running and deep artistic connection to the landscape. From the 9:00 AM start at Marsden Cricket Club to the finish at Ben Rhydding School in Ilkley, you'll be supported by indoor checkpoints providing hot food, optional coach transport, free camping, and comprehensive live tracking. Every finisher receives a special memento and the option of a quality cotton t-shirt, capping a day that blends profound physical challenge with intellectual and sensory reward. Whether you're an ultra-runner seeking a new classic or a lover of literature and landscape looking for the ultimate adventure, the Stanza Stones Ultra promises an unforgettable experience. Step onto a path where every mile tells a story, and poetry is etched into the very bedrock of your run.