The Battle of the Borders is a scenic and challenging trail running event set in the Shropshire Hills, featuring both Half Marathon (13.1 miles) and Marathon (26.2 miles) distances. Organised by How Hard Can It Be Events, this race showcases the rugged terrain and natural beauty of the Long Mynd and surrounding National Trust countryside. It’s a non-loop, single-lap trail route starting and finishing in Carding Mill Valley, offering an unforgettable trail experience for seasoned trail runners.

Key Details

Date: Saturday, 5 September 2026
Start Time: Race starts at 09:00 AM (all distances)
Location: Carding Mill Valley, Church Stretton, Shropshire, SY6 6JG
Organiser: How Hard Can It Be Events

Distances

• Half Marathon: ~13.1 miles (21.1 km) trail route

• Marathon: ~26.2 miles (42.2 km) single-lap trail challenge

Race Description

Participants will run through some of the most dramatic trail terrain in the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The marathon is a single lap with no loops or out-and-backs, meaning runners move continuously along the course through varied trail surfaces, open hillsides and forested sections. Runners are required to carry essential gear including a rucksack, at least 500 ml of water and a basic first aid kit due to the remote nature of parts of the route. Aid stations and friendly marshals support runners along the way.

What’s Included

• Fully marked trail course with marshals on the route

• Aid stations with refreshments and support

• Medal for all finishers

• Challenging, scenic trail terrain with hill sections and natural features

Additional Information

A cut-off time of 7 hours is typically enforced for the full marathon, and runners must complete the first section by early afternoon to be permitted to continue on the second lap (for marathon distance). Church Stretton town, with its train station, lies within about a mile of the race start area, offering convenient access for participants.