Race The Train Bury To Rawtenstall 2026

Race The Train Bury To Rawtenstall begins with a steam train whistle at Bolton Street Railway Station in Bury, Lancashire, sending runners approximately 11 miles north to Rawtenstall. This July point-to-point trail race in the North West of England centers on the challenge of attempting to beat a steam train on the East Lancashire Railway. The course runs along trails next to the East Lancashire Railway and the River Irwell, keeping participants near the train they are competing against. The train departs, pauses for track changes, then continues north, offering runners multiple opportunities to gauge their progress against it. Spectators can travel on the train and offer encouragement from various points, making the event suitable for families and friends alongside the runners. Records from previous years indicate it is a recognized local competition, particularly for trail runners seeking an alternative to standard road races.