Thames Trail Ultra: The Ultimate 47-Mile Challenge Along England’s Longest River
Take on the Thames Trail Ultra, a thrilling 47-mile point-to-point ultra-marathon that follows the beautiful Thames Path, taking you from the historic town of Iffley near Oxford to Henley-on-Thames. This race, once known as the Thames Trot, is one of the most popular ultra events on the British calendar. With a mixture of stunning river views, challenging terrain, and vibrant communities along the way, it’s an experience every runner will remember.
Why Race the Thames Trail Ultra?
- Scenic and Challenging Course: You’ll run along 47 miles of mixed terrain, from smooth tarmac paths to muddy trails, while enjoying the majestic Thames River as it weaves through picturesque villages, beautiful houses, and traditional rowing clubs.
- Prestigious UTMB Index Race: The Thames Trail Ultra is officially part of the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc Index System in the 50K category, making it a must-do for ultra-runners seeking UTMB points.
- New Finish Line: In 2024, the race finishes at the YMCA Y Centre in Henley-on-Thames, providing runners with hot food, showers, and changing facilities – the perfect way to unwind after your 47-mile journey.
- A Well-Supported Event: With 5 aid stations offering water, snacks, and our famous Go Beyond fruitcake, plus real-time GPS tracking, you’ll have everything you need to stay on course and fueled throughout the race.
- Amazing Prizes: Trophies for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd male and female finishers, plus all finishers will receive a medal and exclusive Go Beyond merchandise. Why not commemorate your race with a special Race Day Print of your epic journey?
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, 25th October 2025
- Start Time: 8:15 AM (Registration from 7:00 AM)
- Entry Fee: £70.00 (Includes tracker)
- Distance: 47 miles (Iffley to Henley-on-Thames)
- Terrain: 40.4 miles of cross-country trails and riverside paths (86%) and 6.6 miles of roads (14%)
- Elevation Gain: +947 ft (+289m), Elevation Loss: -1053 ft (-321m)
- Cut-off Time: 11.5 hours, with progressive cut-off points from Checkpoint 3 onward.
Course Details:
The race route takes runners from Hawkwell House Hotel in Iffley, south of Oxford, through picturesque towns and villages, and ends at the YMCA Y Centre in Henley. The course follows both the Thames Path and the Ridgeway National Trails, providing a true test of your endurance and navigational skills. Some key course updates include:
- The Donkey Bridge near the finish line is off-limits this year due to structural issues (a simple diversion will guide you).
- The Benson Weir footway is closed, and the updated route is clearly marked on your GPS tracker and GPX file.
Aid Stations & Checkpoints:
There are 5 aid stations throughout the race, each offering water, snacks, and Go Beyond fruitcake. In addition, we’re partnered with Real Meal, providing high-calorie, low-sugar, gluten-free, vegan energy bars to keep you going. Drinks will be available at the finish line. Toilets are available near Checkpoints 1, 4, and 5.
Mandatory Kit List:
All runners must carry the following essential equipment. Random kit checks will be conducted before the race, so be prepared:
- Fully charged mobile phone (with race director's contact numbers)
- Power bank (for phone recharging)
- Water bottle or bladder (minimum 1L capacity)
- Survival blanket (1.4m x 2m minimum)
- Waterproof jacket
- Whistle
- Headtorch or body torch (with