Registration and Bib collection: Kingston Lacy Cafe
Race starts
Route
Expect wide, well maintained paths, gentle gradients, and flowing sections that invite you to settle into a comfortable rhythm. With no road crossings and no technical trail underfoot, this is a course that suits runners and walkers alike..
SET ENTIRELY IN THE GROUNDS OF KINGSTON LACY
A fully inclusive event: Whether you are aiming for a steady jog, a social run, or a relaxed social walk, the route is designed to be enjoyed at your own pace, all within the historic grounds of the estate.
Highlights
Kilometers
Climb (ft)
Hours
July
Difficulty
Aid stations
Start in front of the doors of Kingston Lacy
One of the most dramatic race starts in the UK
Enjoy refreshments
1 Conveniently placed aid station with al you need for an enjoyable experaince
Finish
Celebrate your achievement on the grounds and enjoy the Kingston Lacy cafe and restaurant facilities.
Information
Important updates on the race will be posted here as well as emailed / SMS were possible.
- 1 litre water
- Gpx file (Please upload to your phone or watch)
- mobile phone
- foil blanket
- equivalent of 2 gels
- reusable cup
Our Life Bases are built for real trail runners, not just the “here’s a biscuit, good luck” vibe. Expect proper fuelling options all day, including vegan friendly and gluten free choices at every Life Base.
We keep ingredients clear and simple. Packaged items will be clearly labelled, and where we serve hot food, we will always have an option that works for common dietary needs. If you have a specific requirement, drop us a note before race day so we can plan properly.
We take this seriously. Nobody wants to be stress managing a basic human need on an ultra day.
There are toilets at the start and finish area, at the main Life Base, and at additional points along the route. In total there are multiple toilet opportunities across the course, including facilities at Race HQ.
If you need any products for a more comfortable, hassle free day, Race HQ is the place to sort yourself out before you start.
We are working on a simple race day shop offering key essentials only. Think gels, soft flasks, anti chafe, socks, tape, and “I forgot my” kit savers.
Details coming soon.
Want a friendly, high energy day out helping runners do something big? Join the Beat the Ferry crew.
Roles are varied and we will match you to what suits you. Life Base support, route support, check in and finish line, and general runner care. You do not need ultra experience, just a good attitude and a willingness to help.
You will get clear instructions, a proper team brief, and a front row seat to some seriously determined effort. If you want to volunteer, use the form and we will get back to you with roles and timings.
A full event manual is coming soon.
Beat the Ferry is organised by Eightmile Events Ltd. By entering, attending, or taking part you agree to our event terms and safety rules, including the following key points.
Entries and refunds
Entries are non refundable unless stated otherwise at time of purchase. If we offer transfers, deferrals, or credit, these are discretionary and may include an admin fee.
Event changes
We may change the date, timings, route, or format if needed for safety, access, or operational reasons.
Cancellation
If the event is cancelled due to factors outside our reasonable control, including severe weather, safety issues, or loss of access, we may reschedule rather than refund. Where refunds are offered, they may be reduced by unrecoverable costs already committed.
Safety and responsibility
Trail running is inherently risky. You must take responsibility for your own safety, follow instructions, carry required kit, and stay on the marked route. If you retire, you must notify the event team immediately.
Route and public access
The course uses public rights of way and shared spaces. You must be considerate to other path users and local communities.
Media
We may take photos and video during the event for promotion. If you do not want your image used, contact us in writing before race day.
Website and content
All site content, branding, and event materials belong to Eightmile Events Ltd and may not be reused without permission.
Beat the Ferry is designed to work as a complete experience on its own, but we’ve partnered with a small number of trusted local and specialist providers to offer optional extras that can help you prepare, travel lighter, and get more from the weekend.
These are all optional. No pressure. Just sensible additions that many runners find genuinely useful.
Trail Running Kit & Essentials
Through our partnership with Running Free, you can browse a curated selection of trail running products chosen specifically with this race in mind.
Footwear, packs, nutrition, and essentials suited to sand, coastal trails, and long days on your feet.
View race-specific trail running products
MindFuelBody – Trail Ready Plan
We’ve teamed up with MindFuelBody to offer a Trail Ready support plan focused on training consistency, recovery, and race-day resilience.
This isn’t about selling shortcuts. It’s about supporting runners physically and mentally in the build-up to a demanding event, whether this is your first ultra-distance challenge or one of many.
Explore the MindFuelBody Trail Ready Plan
National Trust Membership
Large parts of the route pass through National Trust land. If you’re not already a member, a National Trust membership can be a great addition.
Membership supports the landscapes we run through and gives you year-round access to coastal paths, countryside, and historic sites across the UK.
Results page will be posted prior to event day.
| Level | Label | What to Expect |
|---|
| 1 | Easy | Flat, firm paths. Parkland, promenade, compact trail. Road-shoe friendly. |
| 2 | Moderate | Mixed surfaces. Some trail, light undulation, generally stable underfoot. |
| 3 | Challenging | Sand, hills, uneven trail. Requires trail shoes and good endurance. |
| 4 | Hard | Steep climbs, technical sections, exposed terrain. Constant focus needed. |
| 5 | Extreme | Boggy, loose, steep, wild. Slow miles, high effort, full trail commitment. |
What to expect
This event takes place in National Trust grounds, and the day is designed to be more than just a run.
Before or after your run or walk, you are welcome to make the most of everything Kingston Lacy has to offer. The National Trust café will be open for refreshments, and there is the opportunity to explore the gardens and grounds at your leisure.
Visitors may also wish to visit the house itself, subject to National Trust opening times and entry arrangements.
You can expect a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, friendly support around the course, and an event that respects both the historic setting and everyone taking part.
Run, jog, or walk. Stay for a coffee. Take in the grounds. Make a day of it.
Medal
First Aid
Race Number
Timing
Aid Station
Marshals
Goodies
Smiles
Results
Shop
Markers
Location
Kingston Lacy offers space in every sense. Wide paths, open lawns, and flowing parkland mean there is room to move comfortably, without feeling crowded or rushed. Whether you are running, jogging, or walking, the estate creates a calm and welcoming environment where everyone feels they belong.
• Beautiful parkland running through one of Dorset’s finest estates
• Wide, runnable paths throughout
• Space to move comfortably without congestion
A Place to Belong
With gentle terrain and well maintained estate paths, Kingston Lacy is an ideal setting if you are starting out, returning to fitness, or simply looking for an enjoyable day out on foot. There is no traffic, no technical trail, and no pressure to go faster than feels right.
• A fully enclosed estate route with no traffic
• Tree lined avenues and open lawns
• A route suited to runners and walkers alike
An Easy Place to Begin
A Setting Worth the Effort
Running or walking here feels special. The route weaves through woodland and open ground, with regular views of the house and surrounding estate, offering moments to look up, take it in, and enjoy where you are.
• Woodland sections offering shelter and shade
• Views of the house and grounds at multiple points
• A unique historic setting that rewards every pace
Why Kingston Lacy
Working with
Local businesses and organisations who add genuine value to our events, runners, and open spaces we run in
