The Beast of Bryn (Welsh: Bwystfil y Bryn) is a challenging trail and mountain running event held in the dramatic landscape of Afan Forest Park near Port Talbot, South Wales. Established in 2011 by the Bryn Residents Action Group (BRAG), the race has built a reputation as a demanding yet scenic off-road challenge featuring steep climbs, rugged trails and panoramic valley views.

Key Details

Date & Time
Sunday, 23 August 2026

• Help Desk Opens: 08:00

• Mini Beast (1-mile fun run): 09:00

• 10.5-mile “Beast” race: 10:00

• 6.5-mile race: 10:15

• Awards Ceremony: 13:00

Location
Bryn Rugby & Social Club, Hillgrove, Bryn, Port Talbot SA13 2RR, Wales — routes head into the trails and mountains of Afan Forest Park.

Event Type
Trail / mountain race with two main distances:

• 6.5 miles (≈10.5 km) — approx. 288 m elevation gain

• 10.5 miles (≈17 km) — approx. 556 m elevation gain

Organiser
Bryn Residents Action Group (BRAG), a local charity that reinvests race proceeds into community organisations and causes.

Race Description

The Beast of Bryn takes runners through steep woodland trails, ridge paths and mountain terrain within Afan Forest Park. Known for its demanding climbs and spectacular scenery, the race offers sweeping views across the Welsh valleys and forest landscape.

Both distances are fully marked and marshalled, with water stations along the route and mountain rescue support on standby. The longer route is also sometimes included in the Welsh Athletics Masters Championship for affiliated runners.

What’s Included

• Electronic chip timing

• Bespoke finisher’s medal

• Finisher’s T-shirt

• Fully marked and marshalled trail route

• Water stations on course

• Medics and mountain rescue support

• Bag drop and event facilities

• Free marshalled parking (limited spaces)

• Post-race entertainment and awards ceremony

Additional Information

• Entry Fees (2026):

  • 6.5 mile race: £27 affiliated / £29 unaffiliated

  • 10.5 mile race: £37 affiliated / £39 unaffiliated

• Minimum Age: 18 years old.

• Water stations: one on the short route and two on the long route.

• Course terrain: trail, woodland paths and mountain tracks — trail shoes recommended.

• Entry deadline: typically early August (or when race capacity is reached).