Thetford Festival of Running 2027

The Thetford Festival of Running, a Zig Zag Running event, takes place at High Lodge in Thetford Forest, near Brandon, Suffolk. Now in its second year, this race offers participants a 5k, 10k, half marathon, marathon, or ultra marathon within the forest venue. The format accommodates mixed groups, allowing one runner to complete an official 5k while another tackles marathon or ultra laps. Two start times are available, with a six-hour cut-off for the earlier start and a four-hour cut-off for the later one. The course follows a flat 5.3km loop within Thetford Forest, with the aid station located at the lap point. A standard half marathon consists of five laps, though runners may opt for six or seven laps on the day. The ultra marathon begins with nine laps and can be extended to twelve, depending on available time. The High Lodge site provides a dedicated main area and ample open space, allowing runners to return to the same base each lap instead of following a point-to-point route. The participants range from beginners to experienced runners, including those achieving significant milestones, such as Nomi Hallam completing her 201st marathon at this event.