Brand New Ultra Trail Races Launch in Kielder This Summer
There’s a new challenge coming to the trails of Kielder in 2025, and it’s set to be one of the most scenic and exciting additions to The Northumbrian weekend yet. For the first time ever, runners can take part in two brand-new trail races – a 50K Ultra and a 20K trail run – exploring freshly created routes through Kielder’s wild landscape, including the stunning new Lonesome Pine trail. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or soaking up the scenery, these routes promise unforgettable views, rugged forest trails and a finish line like no other on the edge of the lake, alongside your fellow runners and Northumbrian triathletes.
Both races are UTMB Index events (50K and 20K), contributing towards runners’ UTMB Index scores and offering pathways into prestigious UTMB World Series races.
Starting at Kielder Waterside, runners will tackle an unforgettable loop around the lake’s edge, weaving through forest paths and taking in some of the best views Northumberland has to offer. The 50K runners will complete a spectacular 25KM opening loop before joining the triathlon run route for two final laps of Bull Crag peninsula – a section designed to maximise support, as runners pass the buzzing event village and finish beside the lake, shoulder to shoulder with triathletes.
“This is a rare and exciting opportunity to explore stunning trails at Kielder that have only just been opened to the public.” says Race Director Steve Cram. “To experience them for the first time as part of a buzzing race-day atmosphere with like-minded runners makes it extra special.”
“Forestry England are incredibly proud to unveil the new Lonesome Pine Trail at Kielder, a testament to the breathtaking beauty and rugged wilderness of this unique landscape. This trail showcases the very best of Northumberland’s forests, and we are thrilled to see it play a key role in the inaugural Northumbrian Ultra Trail run. It’s an exciting opportunity for runners to immerse themselves in Kielder’s stunning scenery, and we can’t wait to see them take on this incredible challenge.”
Event Details
- Dates: 29 June 2025
- Location: Kielder Waterside, Northumberland
- Distances:
- 50K Ultra (48km, 675m elevation) – £65 entry
- 20K Trail (27.6km, 400m elevation) – £40 entry
- Includes: Race T-shirt, chip timing, course support and nutrition, finishers’ medal and goody bag
- Minimum Age: 16+ for 20K, 18+ for 50K
- Mandatory Kit: All participants must carry safety essentials, including hydration, head torch, waterproof jacket and survival equipment (full list in race pack)
- Cut-off Times:
- 20km – 4 hours
- 30km – 6 hours
- 50km – 10 hours
Limited Places Available – Book Now
Entries are now open – with limited capacity, early sign-up is encouraged to guarantee your spot on this fantastic new route through Kielder’s untamed beauty.
For full event details and registration, visit:
👉 https://thenorthumbrian.com/event/trail-runs/
