Date: 19 September 2026
Location: Sutton Park, Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham
Event Type: Trail & Multi-Terrain Challenge
Distances: 10K, Half Marathon, Marathon, Ultra Marathon (50K)
The Sutton Park Challenge returns for 2026, inviting runners to take on one of the West Midlands’ most scenic endurance events. Set within the 2,400-acre Sutton Park National Nature Reserve, the challenge offers a choice of distances ranging from a 10K to a 50K ultra, making it suitable for first-time challengers and experienced endurance athletes alike.
About the Event
Hosted in the beautiful surroundings of Sutton Park, participants will follow fully marked multi-terrain routes featuring woodland trails, lakeside paths, open heathland and gravel tracks. The park’s varied landscape provides an enjoyable mix of runnable terrain and gentle undulations, creating a rewarding challenge without extreme elevation.
Whether you’re aiming to complete your first 10K, tick off a marathon, or push yourself over the 50K ultra distance, the Sutton Park Challenge offers a supportive atmosphere with regular aid stations and event staff positioned throughout the course.
The event welcomes runners of all abilities, with generous cut-off times allowing participants to run, jog or walk their chosen distance.
Distances & Start Times
- Ultra Marathon (50K)
- Marathon (42.2K)
- Half Marathon (21.1K)
- 10K
Start times vary depending on the chosen distance, with longer events setting off first during the morning. Participants receive full event information and start allocations before race day.
Included with Entry
Participants receive:
- Professionally marked course
- Chip timing
- Finisher’s medal
- Fully stocked aid stations
- Medical support and marshals
- Digital race results
- Event photography
Important Information
The event takes place entirely within Sutton Park, one of Europe’s largest urban parks, offering a safe and picturesque environment for endurance running.
Participants should be prepared for mixed-terrain conditions, with sections of woodland trail, gravel paths and park tracks. Suitable trail or road-to-trail running shoes are recommended.
Minimum ages apply depending on the chosen distance, and advance online entry is required.
Entry Prices
Entry fees vary by distance, with options available for:
- 10K
- Half Marathon
- Marathon
- Ultra Marathon (50K)
See the event organiser’s website for the latest pricing and availability.
Why Take Part?
The Sutton Park Challenge is an excellent choice for anyone looking to experience endurance running in one of the UK’s finest urban parks. With multiple distances, beautiful scenery and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s ideal whether you’re stepping up to a new distance or chasing a personal endurance goal.
From peaceful woodland trails to open parkland and lakeside views, every mile showcases why Sutton Park is one of the West Midlands’ premier outdoor destinations.
