Shires and Spires
The Shires and Spires is a series of multi-terrain road and trail races that start and finish at Naseby Village Hall in Northamptonshire. Courses pass through countryside and past local landmarks such as Holdenby House, Althorp House, and Cottesbrooke House. Free parking is available at the village hall complex.
The event changes direction each year: races run clockwise in even years and anti-clockwise in odd years. Routes combine roads and trails, with varying elevation and a mix of waymarked and navigation-required sections depending on distance.
Race distances
- Ultra Marathon: 35 miles
- Marathon: 26.6 miles
- Three-Quarter Marathon: 19.1 miles
- Half Marathon: 13.4 miles
- 10K: 10 kilometres
Specific race features include navigation requirements and GPS trackers with voice cues for the ultra, aid stations and progressive cut-offs on longer distances, and well-marked and marshalled shorter courses. Mandatory kit for the ultra includes a fully charged mobile phone, a water bottle or bladder (minimum 1 litre), trail shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing. Age limits apply by distance, generally 16 or 17 for shorter races and 18 for longer races. Charity entries are available with a £10 admin fee and set minimum fundraising commitments per distance. The event lists training support via the Runna App and notes nearby accommodation options in Northampton. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.