If you were inspired by Dan Lawson’s incredible Land’s End to John O’ Groats run in August or the grind of 2020 has left you looking for a life-defining challenge, event organisers Rat Race have come up with something that truly deserves the term ‘epic’.
Land’s End to John O’ Groats is the most iconic journey our island has to offer, but attempting the enormous distance on foot has so far been the preserve of the very cream of the ultra running elite. Now Run Britannia could make it a reality for runners who are ready to dream really big.
What is the route from Land’s End to John O’Groats?
The precise route hasn’t been released yet, but we know it will be longer than the 830-ish mile route Lawson and other record-chasers have followed as the organisers wanted to avoid the A-Roads and deliver a more rewarding experience.
‘Our route has been put together with painstaking precision, encompassing a real “runners line,” largely avoiding busy roads and packing in huge chunks of off-tarmac terrain,’ say the organisers. ‘It’s a truly stunning 1000 mile, 70,000ft elevation adventure that spans the entire length of this great nation, a swashbuckling tour-de-force through 2000 years of British History and landmarks, taking you on a journey through the very soul of this storied Isle.’
While exact details are still under wraps, the organisers have confirmed the route will incorporate some of the UK’s most famous long-distance paths, including major sections on the South West Coast Path, Mendip Way, Wye Valley Way, Offa’s Dyke, Pennine Way, West Highland Way and the Great Glen Way. All of which offer scenery so spectacular that you’ll barely notice the small matter of those extra 170 miles…
How long will it take to cover the 1000 miles?
The schedule is somewhat more forgiving than the shade under 10 days it took Dan Lawson, but covering the 1000 miles over five weeks across hill, mountain, moor and valley will obviously push participants’ endurance to the limit.
When can I register for Run Britannia?
The event officially launches on 30 October and you can sign up to receive more info and get yourself registered for one of the 40 available places here.
