If you're looking for your next big ultramarathon challenge in 2025, this list of the Top 10 UK ultramarathons is just what you need! From breathtaking island trails to historic castles and intense backyard challenges, the UK ultramarathon scene is packed with events that will test your endurance and mental grit. As always, Rat Race Adventures is proud to feature five of our own epic races. Let's dive in!
1. Ultra X Scotland – May 3-4, 2025 | Inverness
Ultra X Scotland takes runners deep into the Scottish Highlands for a 125km, two-day adventure. From the mountains to the lochs, this race showcases the raw beauty of the Highlands, making it one of the best UK ultramarathons in 2025. If you're seeking rugged, untamed landscapes, this is the race for you.
2. The Wall UK Ultramarathon – June 14, 2025 | Carlisle to Newcastle
The Wall Ultramarathon is a one-day, 70-mile run that follows the ancient Hadrian’s Wall from Carlisle to Newcastle. Hosted by yours truly, this race takes participants through history and stunning countryside, making it a must-do event for ultramarathon runners who crave both adventure and challenge.
3. Manchester to Liverpool Ultra 50 – April 18, 2025 | Manchester to Liverpool
The Manchester to Liverpool Ultra 50 takes participants 50 miles along the scenic canal paths between the two iconic cities. Although the 2025 event is already sold out, it’s worth keeping an eye on for future editions if you're looking for a well-established UK ultramarathon.
4. Ultra Tour of Arran – April 5-6, 2025 | Isle of Arran, Scotland
The Ultra Tour of Arran is one of our most challenging ultramarathons. Taking place over two days on the Isle of Arran, this 60-mile race offers rugged, technical terrain, breathtaking coastlines, and steep mountain ascents. If you're ready for a wild Scottish adventure, this is the race for you.
5. Race to the Stones – July 12-13, 2025 | Lewknor to Avebury
The Race to the Stones ultramarathon is a classic 100km race following Britain's oldest path, the Ridgeway. This journey from Lewknor to Avebury takes runners through stunning countryside and ancient landmarks, offering a sense of history with every step. It's a perfect ultramarathon for those seeking both challenge and scenic beauty.
6. Run Britannia – May 30 - July 5, 2025 | Cornwall to John O'Groats, UK
Run Britannia is an epic, 37-day, 1000+ mile ultramarathon from the southern tip of Cornwall to John O'Groats in Scotland. Our ultimate endurance challenge, offering participants the chance to run the entire length of the UK. With diverse landscapes and a monumental sense of achievement at the finish, this event is one for those seeking the most ambitious ultramarathon experience.
7. Rasselbock Backyard Hardwick Hall – September 13, 2025 | Hardwick Hall, Derbyshire
The Rasselbock Backyard Ultra is a unique race format where runners must complete a 4.167-mile loop every hour until only one person is left standing. Held at the beautiful Hardwick Hall in Derbyshire, this race is a test of both endurance and strategy, offering a different challenge from traditional ultramarathon.
8. UK Sea to Summit Trilogy – September 2025 (TBC) | Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)
UK Sea to Summit Trilogy is one of our most daring ultramarathon challenges. Conquer the highest peaks in the UK—Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)—starting from sea level and racing to the summits. With incredible scenery and a truly epic challenge, this event is one to look out for in September 2025 (dates to be confirmed).
9. Portland Pig Backyard Ultra – May 2, 2025 | Portland, Dorset
The Portland Pig Backyard Ultra is another backyard ultra-style event, but this time set on the picturesque Isle of Portland. Runners complete loop after loop, testing their endurance, mental strength, and willpower until there is only one competitor left. It's a perfect choice for ultramarathon runners looking for a unique, loop-based race format.
10. Rat Race 100 – July 19-21, 2025 | Bamburgh Castle to Edinburgh Castle
We finish our list with the highly anticipated Rat Race 100, a brand-new 100-mile ultramarathon. Running from Bamburgh Castle to Edinburgh Castle, this two-day event will push even the most seasoned ultrarunners to their limits. With stunning coastal and countryside views and a historic finish at Edinburgh Castle, the Rat Race 100 is the ultimate endurance race for 2025.
Each of these ultramarathons offers a unique challenge for runners looking to test their endurance, from the stunning Scottish Highlands to historic English trails. Whether you’re drawn to rugged island races or back-to-back loops in backyard formats, the UK ultramarathon scene is packed with variety in 2025. Which race will you conquer next?
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