The local trail race you won't want to miss! A truly breathtaking race that enchants and delights at every twist and turn. The Rye Ancient Trails returns for 2025!

This is a Nice Work race
This means that this is an original Nice Work race, fully hosted and organised by us.

Event Overview:
The best local trail race you'll ever enter!
Our course experts have crafted a racing gem, just for you; the stunning course weaves through ancient trails across High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in East Sussex, linking the Norman churches of Rye, Iden, Beckley, Northiam and Peasmarsh. This spectacular event has grown steadily in popularity with runners taking to the trail to explore historic woodland, trails, quiet country lanes.

This is a race with community spirit at it's heart. There is wonderful local support for our runners to enjoy from the friendly marshals who cheer them on and help guide them through the course, to the girl guides that serve them tea and cake at the finish. As the race has grown, so has their support and we are immeasurably grateful to everyone in this wonderful community that helps to make Rye Ancient Trails such a spellbinding event! If you haven't raced it before, then prepare yourself for unparalleled racing delight. 

If you don't fancy the 30k option, then the 15k distance is just as delectable and takes you on the same route, turning at Peasmarsh. It attracts runners of all abilities, from experienced athletes and those new to running. 

Course Details:
The route starts and finishes in the medieval town of Rye. The undulating multi-terrain route includes 1,500ft of climb, with numerous gates and stiles to be negotiated, but the stunning scenery will keep you going to the finish. 

Route Map:
You can view the route maps below. You'll be able to download the route in different formats including GPX.
30k
15k

Available Races/Distances:
30K race / 15K race

Prizes:
Bespoke medal for all finishers.
Trophy with e-certificate & £5 voucher prize for 1st, 2nd & 3rd male & female winners (both distances)
E-certificate and £5 voucher prize for 1st male & female age group categories (both distances)
E-certificate and £5 voucher prize for 1st male junior & female junior (15k only)
Team prizes on offer! - First male and female team - 3 to score and must be in club kit (both distances)

On-the-day Entry Fees (subject to availability only):
30K: £35.00
15K: £35.00

Previous Reviews:
Don't take our word for it! Find out what our runners say about Rye Ancient Trails!
You can view previous reviews... here!
Current reviews can be viewed... here!

A note on racing sustainably:
We are doing our best to work sustainably and to ensure that the carbon footprint of our races is kept as low as possible. We are always working on new initiatives and you can read more about these...  here!

A note on headphones:
Due to new UKA rules that came into force on 01 April 2024, in the ear and over the ear headphones are no longer permitted at running events unless otherwise stated. Bone conducting headphones are permitted however, if you do choose to wear bone conducting headphones, then we ask that you have the volume turned down low enough to hear the marshal instructions.

Event information will be sent to all registered entrants prior to race-day.