Black To The Trails 2026

Name: Black To The Trails 2026
Start: 2026-05-09T23:00:00.000Z
End: 2026-05-09T23:00:00.000Z
Location: Dunstable Downs, Whipsnade, Dunstable LU6 2GY, UK

Sun, May 10, 2026, 9:00 am

Dunstable Downs, Whipsnade

6 +

Black To The Trails 2026

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Booked 22 times in the last week

£5.50 - £25

Booked 22 times in the last week

About

Come and make history at the World's most ethnically diverse trail running event. Open to all abilities, there is something for everyone including a 1K run perfect for all the family. Come for the amazing atmosphere and stunning scenery.

Please note any race start times listed are provisional. Participants will be notified of the final times closer to the event date.

Register Your Interest, 5k, FamSlam, and 3 more

View details

Sun, May 10, 2026

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Whipsnade, United Kingdom

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Where and when

Location

Dunstable Downs, Whipsnade, Dunstable LU6 2GY, UK

Start times

Sunday, May 10, 2026

5k: 10:00 AM1k: 11:15 AMScotch Bonnet 10k: 11:30 AM10k: 12:00 PM

Event summary

Here are the distances available for Black To The Trails 2026

1 / 2

Scotch Bonnet 10k

10km

£23 - £25

10k

10km

£19 - £21

5km

£12.50 - £14.50

1km

£5.50 - £7.50

Route information

Black to the Trails® by Black Trail Runners, is the United Kingdom's most ethnically diverse trail running event and, in 2026, it’s going to even bigger and better!

Once again the event has been designed, and will be directed and run, by Black Trail Runners for Black people, People of Colour and White allies who want to do their bit to show what a globally representative trail running event can looks like.

Black to the Trails® is an inclusive run event for EVERYONE no matter what your ability. There are distances for the kids (under 16s go free!), the brand new and the more experienced trail runner.

This event will be truly unique in its offering to all who attend. Once again, Black Trail Runners will be bringing feel-good carnival vibes to Dunstable Downs.

What's included

We guarantee, you’ll come for the run and stay for the fun! Throughout the morning, as well as the run distances on offer, we’ll have a variety of activities, food, live music and much more to keep your post-run endorphins raised and the party vibes high.

From 1K distances for the kids (and the adults!) to 5K, 10K and a our more challenging Scotch Bonnet 10K - there is something for everyone. And, for those looking for a challenge, why not 'do the triple' by booking the 1K, 5K and one of our 10Ks.

More than just a trail run

We are once again bringing the Black Trail Runners trail running carnival vibes to Dunstable Downs.

This is a community event so we will have a range of activities to enjoy throughout the day including face painting, food concessions reflecting our cultures, DJs, live run commentary and more.

What you get

For completing your run you get a Black to the Trails® medal and a goody bag.

You’ll also be able to purchase Black Trail Runners merchandise - because representation matters when we are out on the trails! Our buffs, socks, t-shirts and hoodies help show who we are and what we stand for.

But more than that, you get to experience the joy of trail running at a vibrant, diverse and ethnically inclusive event.

Black to the Trails®, by Black Trail Runners, is the future of trail running.

How to get there

Dunstable Downs, Whipsnade, Dunstable LU6 2GY, UK

Get full directions

How to get here

Address: Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate, Whipsnade Road, Dunstable, Bedfordshire, LU6 2GY

By road - Please visit Dunstable Downs via the B4541 west of Dunstable. Please note Sallowsprings road is a private road with no through access onto Dunstable Downs.

Parking - We will have a dedicated FOC event car park available on the day (look out for the BTR flags). There is also parking at Dunstable Downs, off B4541 (pay and display); Whipsnade crossroads (Whipsnade Heath), junction of B4541 and B4540 Parking is £3.50 for the day. Free for National Trust Members

SatNav: Use LU6 2GY

By train - Luton train station 7 miles.

By foot - From West Street and Tring Road, Dunstable

Hotels and Accommodation

Black Trail Runners has partnered with Let's Do This to bring you some of the best hotel rates close to the startline.

Find your room

Event day logistics

9.00am - Event Village opens and coaches (from London and Birmingham) arrive

10.00am - 5K Starts

11.15am - 1K Starts

11.30am - Scotch Bonnet 10K Starts

Noon - 10K Starts

2pm - Winners announced, prize-giving and community celebration

3pm - Event ends and London and Birmingham coaches depart

Black Trail Runners

View more Black Trail Runners events

FAQs

Can I run with my dog?

No. Entrants are not permitted to run with any of the trail races with their dogs.

Do I need to wear trail shoes?

You can wear whatever shoes you feel comfortable in but please be advised that all routes are run on trails. If you do not have trail shoes then our partner, Adidas, will be on hand with their 'test and trial' vehicle which allows you to test trail shoes.