THE ROUTES
Use the sections below to explore your options at Race to the King.
MONARCH'S LOOP 30K
Monarch’s Loop 30K
The Ideal Introduction to Long-Distance Running & Walking
A challenging but very achievable journey along the South Downs Way towards Bignor Hill, returning to West Dean Gardens via the stunning Monarch’s Way. The perfect entry point to long distance trail running & walking.
Distance: 30km / 18.6 miles
Elevation: 600m / 1970ft
COASTAL 50K
Coastal 50k
Truly the Perfect First Ultramarathon
Flat and runnable without skimping on scenery, the Coastal 50k offers spectacular views around Chichester Harbour, passing through the ancient fishing village of Bosham before gently climbing back onto the South Downs.
Distance: 50km / 31.1 miles
Elevation: 460m / 1500ft
Cut-off: 15+ Hours
CASTLE 50K
Castle 50k
A Challenging 50km Ultramarathon
Looking for more of a challenge? The Castle 50k at Race to the King is the ideal ‘next step’ on your ultra journey.
Following an undulating course along the South Downs Way, the route passes by Arundel Castle before returning to West Dean via the Monarch’s Way.
Distance: 53km / 33 miles
Elevation: 1040m / 3400ft
Cut-off: 15+ hours
80K NON-STOP
80K Non-Stop
The Next Step on Your Ultra Journey
Designed to provide a ‘stepping stone’ distance between the 50k and 100k routes, the 80k Non-Stop course begins with a full circuit of the Coastal 50k route before completing the 30k Monarch’s Loop, finishing back at West Dean Gardens.
Distance: 80km / 49.7 miles
Elevation: 1065m / 3500ft
Cut-off: 24+ hours
100K NON-STOP
100K Non-Stop
An Epic Tour of South Downs National Park
The full circuit, taking in both the Coastal and Castle loops for a magnificent tour of the stunning South Downs National Park. Steeped in history and uniquely varied, the 100k Non-Stop event at Race to the King offers a course truly fit for royalty.
Distance: 103km / 64 miles
Elevation: 1510m / 4950ft
Cut-off: 24+ hours
Following the Route
The entirety of the Race to the King route is marked on race day with red arrows. At night, these arrows are reflective and designed to stand out when lit up with a headlamp.
We pride ourselves on ensuring that you never have to travel more than a few metres without seeing a route marker. Once the race is done, we double-sweep the course to ensure none of our signage is left on the trail.
All our signage is reusable, and we use reusable cable ties where possible to minimise our impact on the environment.
