Stort30

Nestled along the picturesque River Stort and Lee navigation paths, the Bishop's Stortford Ultra Run offers runners an inviting 30-mile journey through serene landscapes. This ultra-distance course is perfectly suited for both first-time ultrarunners looking to dip their toes into longer distances and seasoned athletes aiming for a competitive time.
The route begins at Hockerill Sports and Social Club in Bishop’s Stortford, winding out along the riverbank before turning back on itself after 15 miles. The terrain is largely flat with well-maintained grassy trails and graded footpaths, making it an ideal introduction to ultra running while still offering a challenge for those seeking speed.
Participants can enjoy generous cut-off times: four hours at the turnaround point (CP3) and eight hours overall, ensuring that runners have ample time to navigate both the scenic beauty of the route and any challenging weather conditions. The course is clearly marked with signs placed before each turn, though all participants are encouraged to download a .gpx file for backup navigation.
Support along the way includes well-stocked checkpoints every five miles where runners can replenish their supplies with water, squash, snacks, and even some sweet treats like cake or chicken bites. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options will be available at each checkpoint, though it's advisable to bring personal provisions if you have specific dietary concerns.
Race day starts early in the morning with registration from 7:00 AM to 8:10 AM where participants can collect their race numbers and route descriptions. A mandatory briefing begins at 8:15 AM outside or inside the clubhouse, followed by a sharp start time of 8:30 AM.
Upon crossing the finish line back in Bishop’s Stortford, all runners will receive a commemorative medal as well as access to free tea, coffee, and soft drinks in the club's facilities. The bar is also open for those who wish to celebrate their achievement with something more substantial post-race.
Early bird discounts are available until October 11th, reducing entry fees significantly compared to on-the-day registration costs of £60. To ensure a comfortable experience, participants should be mindful that parking restrictions apply around the start/finish area and local streets; please park at Bishop’s Stortford train station instead and walk up.
For all those interested in testing their endurance against this stunning backdrop, mark your calendars for October 25th, 2026.