If you think running events are just for experienced athletes and fitness fanatics, think again! Here in Dorset, there are a vast array of fantastic running events suitable for everyone, many of which take place along our stunning coast and countryside.
Whether you prefer a gentle 5k or a more challenging ultra marathon, we’ve handpicked ten of the best Dorset runs on offer over the coming months. So, what are you waiting for? Get your running gear on and start training today!
Dorset running events
Jurassic Coast Ultra Challenge
- When: 18th/19th May
- Where: Corfe Castle, Wareham
- Details: Walk, jog or run along the stunning UNESCO World Heritage coastline for charity, starting at Corfe Castle, with a range of distances to suit all abilities.
- Cost: Dependent on chosen distance and fundraising commitment
- Further information here
Egdon Easy 10k race
- When: 25th May, 7:00pm
- Where: Weymouth College
- Details: The Egdon Easy is a flat 10km race which is mostly on the paths and cycle ways around Weymouth's Lodmoor Nature Reserve and Country Park. Suitable for all fitness abilities, this race is open to all runners aged 15 and above.
- Cost: £15 - £19
- Further information here
Poole 10k 2024
- When: 1st June, 10:00am
- Where: Baiter Park, Poole
- Details: Double lap of the 5k route looping around Poole Park, going under the railway line and entering Whitecliff Recreational Ground and Harbourside Park. The finish re-enters Baiter Park, adjacent to Parkstone B
- Cost: £17.49
- Further information here
Puddletown Plod Half Marathon
- When: 9th June, 10:00am
- Where: St. Mary’s C.E. Middle School, Puddletown
- Details: Set against the backdrop of the idyllic Dorset countryside, the Puddletown Plod Road Race is a community-driven half marathon which offers runners a delightful course that winds through the local quaint streets.
- Cost: £24 - £26
- Further information here
Charmouth 8 Mile Fell Run
- When: 6th July, 10:00am
- Where: Charmouth Primary School, Bridport
- Details: A hilly, multi-terrain course through some of the finest coastal scenery in the South West. Suitable for moderate to experienced runners.
- Cost: £20-£24
- Further information here
Cider Frolic
- When: 20th July, 8:00am
- Where: Myncen Farm, Blandford Forum
- Details: Complete as many laps around the farm as you want over a 12-hour period. Run solo or in teams of 2, 3 or 4. Solo runners can do as many laps as they want.
- Cost: £40-£42
- Further information here
Sunflower Stride (10k and 5k)
- When: 17th August, 5:00pm (10k), 5:30pm (5k)
- Where: Venue Maiden Castle Farm, Dorchester
- Details: Runners can choose to undertake the 5k or 10k trail run, taking them through the majestic sunflower plants before joining bridleways and on to the stunning Maiden Castle, Europe’s largest Hill Fort. Suitable for all abilities.
- Cost: £18 - £25
- Further information here
The Beast
- When: 1st September, 10:00am
- Where: Corfe Castle, Wareham
- Details: The Beast is just that - a beast of race! Suitable for experienced runners, this 13-mile course takes in some of the most spectacular views of Dorset, heading out towards Worth Matravers and then on to the coastal path before heading back towards Corfe.
- Cost: £22 - £25
- Further information here
Purbeck Running Festival
- When: 14th/15th September, all day
- Where: Sandpit Field, Swanage
- Details: Swanage has been home to The Purbeck Running Festival since 2012 and now hosts seven events over the weekend, from 5k to the infamous Purbeck Ultra! Boasting fantastic scenery en route, the festival has races to suit all abilities.
- Cost: £12 - £56 depending on race
- Further information here
Run Bournemouth
- When: 12th/13th October, all day
- Where: Bournemouth Pier, Pier Approach, Bournemouth
- Details: A range of races for children and adults, including the Bournemouth Half Marathon and the nighttime Supernova 5k. All races are flat and take place along Bournemouth’s promenade, award winning blue flag beaches and famous piers.
- Cost: £14.50 - £43.25 depending on race
- Further information here
Keen to take up running in Dorset?
Here in Dorset, we’re truly blessed with great places to head out for a run in the open air. Whether you attend an organised event such as the races above or prefer something a little more low key, there’s something for everyone. Why not head over to our Activity Finder to locate running groups and clubs in your area or register with LiveWell Dorset today for some great tips and guidance to help you get active.
Further reading