Swan Challenge: Coombe Abbey Park
The Swan Challenge is a six-hour, self-paced lap event held at Coombe Abbey Park, CV3 2AB on the outskirts of Coventry. The course is a 3.3-mile lap that uses mainly stone pathways with a meadow section on open grassland. The meadow can be muddy depending on recent weather. The route has substantial tree cover and is described as relatively flat.
Participants may complete as many laps as they wish within the six-hour time limit. One lap is just over 5 km. A half marathon requires four laps and a marathon requires eight laps. With many laps it is possible to cover 50 miles or more. A GPX file for the route is available, though the route may be subject to last minute changes and will be marked on the day.
Facilities on site include paid parking up to £5 depending on stay, and a cafe and toilet block adjacent to the event headquarters. Rucking is permitted. Dogs are not allowed.
Pricing
Entry uses tiered pricing: before 10/06/2026 the fee is £37, after that date the fee is £42. Unaffiliated entrants pay £2 extra. Entrants may receive a medal or opt for a Big Bear Tree Token that funds a tree planting and contains wildflower seeds.
There is an optional charity donation to Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Course Details
Distance: You decide! The 3.3-mile lap at Coombe Abbey Park means your race can be just over 5k or, given the relatively flat nature of the course, potentially 50+ miles! You decide how many laps you are going to do on the day within the 6-hour time limit. If you're looking to cover a marathon distance you'll need to complete 8 laps and a half marathon will be 4 laps.
Duration: 6 Hour Challenge
Location Details
Coombe Abbey Park, Coventry, CV3 2AB. Parking costs up to £5. There is a cafe and toilet block next to the HQ on site.