The Tolkien Trail Race
Follow in J.R.R Tolkien’s footsteps and race across through the enchanting woods and epic scenery that inspired the stories of “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit”.
Starting on the Avenue of the stunning Stonyhurst College, where Tolkien himself spent time and wrote parts of the Lord of the Rings (and even taught a few lectures). You’ll meet a farm track which will bring you to an enchanting woodland. Here you’ll descend forest steps and cross an old stone bridge, leading you to the River Hodder.
After a brief road crossing you’ll pass the Cromwell Bridge (built in 1562) leading you to the trail along the River Ribble where you’ll see a quite breathtaking aquaduct (built in 1880).
Back through woodland, you’ll run through the old finish field in the field (Mount Doom..) behind the Shireburn Arms, before racing back through the village and down the avenue returning to Stonyhurst College, having enjoyed the best of what inspired the creation of ‘Hobbiton’ in the tales.
The Tolkien Trail Race is a stunning journey through the Ribble Valley, blending scenic riverside paths, rolling countryside, and winding woodland trails.
The route flows beautifully between fast, runnable sections and gentle climbs (well, all but the last one at ‘Mount Doom’)
Expect a mix of grassy fields, well-trodden trails, and the occasional muddy stretch – just enough to make things fun without slowing you down too much.
Whether you’re pushing the pace or soaking in the views, the course keeps you engaged from start to finish. A final stretch along the River Ribble sets the stage for a strong finish, rounding off an unforgettable run in one of Lancashire’s most picturesque landscapes.
Event Goodies
2026 Medal, 2026 Commemorative Buff, 2026 Commemorative Car Sticker. ‘Race Swag’ will be rewarded at the finish line.
Race Location
The Tolkien Trail Race takes place at Stonyhurst College, Hurst Green.
The registration is located outside the front of Stonyhurst College.
Event Parking
Parking this year will be kept entirely on the Stonyhurst College grounds itself. Please follow Sat Navs to Stonyhurst College, Clitheroe, Lancashire BB7 9PZ using Knowels Brow Road and avoid using the avenue through the village. We will be operating a one way system through the college, please follow marshal directions as to where to park.
As this event has become more popular than we could ever have imagined and will continue to get bigger, we have had to look at ways to allow more runners to race and ease pressures on the village.
We do ask that you bear with us whilst we get you parked in the grounds.
Event Registration
Registration opens at 8:30am where you will collect your race numbers. You can also collect any pre-ordered merchandise from the pre-order merch stall – please ensure you collect on the day as we are unable to send out after. Registration will close at 10:45am, where you will be ushered to the start line so that we can begin to pre-race briefing.
Event Start Time
Wave 1: 11:00am, Wave 2: 11:20am
Event Cancellation Policy
The organiser’s cancellation and transfer policies allow refunds with charges depending on the timing of the request and transfers up to one week before the event.