Crikey Its The Christmas Cracker Day 2
This event is an out and back trail run based at Hollybush Conservation Centre, Broad Lane, Kirkstall, Leeds LS5 3BP. The course follows the Leeds and Liverpool Canal on good, mostly flat trail surfaces and offers canal views through historic Kirkstall. The race is part of the It’s Grim Up North Running Christmas Cracker Weekend; entrants may run one day or both days.
Distances offered include:
- 5K
- 10K
- 10 Miles
- Half Marathon
- 20 Miles (2 x 10 Mile loops)
- Marathon (2 x Half Marathon loops)
The event is fully marshalled and clearly signed. Feed and drink stations are provided approximately every 3 miles; the event is cup-less so participants should bring a reusable cup or bottle. Participants receive a bespoke finisher medal and festive treats. The race is run under Trail Running Association licensing and UKA rules.
Transport notes state the nearest railway station is Headingley, served by Northern Rail. There is no parking at the start and finish area; organisers recommend using the nearby Morrisons car park and encourage car sharing. Safety information includes restrictions on large over ear headphones, allowance for bone conducting or single ear in ear pieces, and instruction to inform the nearest marshal if withdrawing or injured. Unmarshalled road crossings require extra care. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Event Overview
- Location: Kirkstall, Leeds
- Event Type: Out and back trail run
- Terrain: Good, flat(ish) trail along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal
- Elevation: Flat – perfect for PB chasers
- Atmosphere: Festive, friendly, and family-friendly
This event is part of the “It’s Grim Up North Running” Christmas Cracker Weekend. You can run on either day or both days – the choice is yours!
What’s Included
- Fully marshalled and clearly signed course
- Feed and drink stations approximately every 3 miles
- Cup-less event – please bring your own reusable cup or bottle
- Bespoke finisher medal and lots of festive treats
Getting Here
By Train: The nearest station is Headingley, served by Northern Rail.
By Car: There is no parking at the start/finish area. We recommend using the Morrisons car park nearby. Car sharing is strongly encouraged!
Registration Location: what3words: deny.epic.able- Hollybush conservation centre, Broad Lane, Kirkstall, Leeds, LS5 3BP
Race Schedule & Entry Fees
Registration opens at 7:30 AM. Please allow at least one hour to park, register, and prepare.
All races are Trail Running Association licensed under UKA Rules.
| Distance | Start Time | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|
| 5K | 8:45AM | £— |
| 10K | 10:00 AM | £— |
| 10 Miles | 8:45 AM | £— |
| Half Marathon | 9:00 AM | £— |
| 20 Miles (2 x 10 Mile loops) | 8:45 AM | £— |
| Marathon (2 x Half Marathon loops) | 8:30 AM | £— |
Important Race Information
- Cup-less event: Feed stations every ~3 miles. Bring your own bottle or reusable cup.
- Headphones: For safety, large over-ear headphones are not permitted. Bone-conducting headphones or “one in, one out” in-ear pieces are allowed.
- Safety: If you need to retire or are injured, please inform the nearest marshal.
- Transfers & Deferrals: Easily self-serve through our website Changes on race day may incur a £5 admin fee.
- Unmarshalled crossings: Please take care at road sections.
Stay Connected
We no longer send race briefs by post — all key details are online. Please visit our FAQ section and join our “Grim Up North Chat” Facebook group for updates, tips, and community support.
Why You’ll Love This Race
- Perfect flat course for PB seekers
- Festive atmosphere with music, food, and Christmas cheer
- Inclusive distances from 1 mile to marathon
- Beautiful canal views through historic Kirkstall
- A fun, family-friendly event for runners of all abilities