Ipswich · United Kingdom

5K races near Ipswich

27 races in 2026 next one is today

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Upcoming 5K races near Ipswich

This week 2

Run · road · 5K

Wroxham · 74 km away

Run · trail · 5K

Crown To Crown 5K July Evening Race

Basildon · 72 km away

JUL 13

Run · road · 5K

Mildenhall 2K & 5K River Run

Bury Saint Edmunds · 37 km away

Run · trail · 5K

Race For Life Margate

Margate · 76 km away

Run · trail · 5K

Race For Life Colchester

Colchester · 25 km away

+22 more 5K racesShow fewer ↓

Run · road · 5K

Harwich 5K Series Race 5

Harwich · 17 km away

Run · road · 5K

Great Barrow Challenge - Day 1

Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5AX · 45 km away

Run · road · 5K

Great Barrow Challenge Day 2 - 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Full Marathon or Ultra Marathon

Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5AX · 45 km away

Run · road · 5K

Great Barrow Challenge Day 3 - 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Full Marathon or Ultra Marathon

Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5AX · 45 km away

Run · road · 5K

Great Barrow Challenge Day 4 - 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Full Marathon or Ultra Marathon

Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5AX · 45 km away

Run · road · 5K

Great Barrow Challenge Day 5 - 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Full Marathon or Ultra Marathon

Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5AX · 45 km away

Run · road · 5K

Great Barrow Challenge Day 6 - 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Full Marathon or Ultra Marathon

Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5AX · 45 km away

Run · road · 5K

Great Barrow Challenge Day 7 - 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Full Marathon or Ultra Marathon

Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5AX · 45 km away

Run · road · 5K

Great Barrow Challenge Day 8 - 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Full Marathon or Ultra Marathon

Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5AX · 45 km away

Run · road · 5K

Great Barrow Challenge Day 9 - 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Full Marathon or Ultra Marathon

Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5AX · 45 km away

AUG 6

Run · road · 5K

Great Barrow Challenge Day 10 - 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Full Marathon or Ultra Marathon

Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5AX · 45 km away

Run · road · 5K

Flycarb Colchester FNR

Colchester · 22 km away

Run · trail · 5K

Crown To Crown 5K August Evening Race

Basildon · 72 km away

Run · road · 5K

The Lucky Clover Run

Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 · 45 km away

Run · road · 5K

The Lucky Clover

Bury Saint Edmunds · 36 km away

Run · road · 5K

Northstowe Running Festival

Cambridge · 73 km away

SEP 6

Run · road · 5K

Ickworth Sunset Chase

Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5QE · 39 km away

Run · road · 5K

FEAR (Forget Everything And Run)

Brandon IP27 0AF · 54 km away

Run · trail · 5K

Crown To Crown 5K September Evening Race

Basildon · 72 km away

Run · road · 5K

Fyfield Footpath 5K & 10K

Essex · 70 km away

Run · road · 5K

The Lucky Horseshoe

Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 · 45 km away

Run · road · 5K

The Pumpkin Run 2026

Colchester CO6 3PT · 30 km away

Ipswich · 80 km

27 races mapped View on map →

Recurring 5K races near Ipswich

Races that repeat — weekly, monthly or yearly

Thompson Millennium Green 10K & 5K

The Thompson Millennium Green 10K & 5K is an annual village run held in Thompson, Norfolk. It begins at 11:00 am from the Green, postcode IP24 1PU. The event features a 10K run and a 5K fun run. Both races utilize mixed surfaces, including paths, lanes, bridleways, farm tracks, and byroads surrounding the village, rather than closed city streets. The courses are relatively flat, offering opportunities for personal bests, and the 5K provides a shorter option for families and newer participants within the same rural setting. The 10K route commences on Thompson Millennium Green, proceeds through farmland tracks and byroads, connects with Griston Road, passes the Chequers pub, and concludes back on the Green. The 5K follows a comparable out-and-back village course. Volunteers organize the event to generate funds for Thompson Millennium Green, which is the Green’s primary annual fundraiser. Proceeds support its maintenance and development. The event relies significantly on local assistance, including marshals, timekeepers, car park attendants, finish-line photographers, kitchen volunteers, BBQ staff, and bakers contributing cakes. All finishers are awarded custom medals, leading runners receive trophies, and the post-race arrangements typically include hot dogs, refreshments, and homemade baked goods.

Whitstable & Herne Bay 1,5k, 5k, 10k & Semi-Marathon MoRun

The Whitstable & Herne Bay MoRun begins and ends at Hampton Pier Recreation Ground in Herne Bay, offering 1.5k, 5k, 10k, and half marathon distances. This November running event supports Movember, blending standard road racing with fundraising for men’s health initiatives, specifically prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. The 1.5k Mini MoRun provides children with their own chip-timed race, while the longer distances cater to adults, from beginners to those aiming for a specific time. All distances feature chip timing with immediate results, and participants receive a MoRun medal, a MoRunning headband, beverages, and snacks. The event incorporates Movember’s moustache theme, awarding extra medals to the fastest MoBro, fastest MoSista, best dressed runner, and best Mo.

MoRunning Whitstable & Herne Bay MoRun

The Whitstable & Herne Bay MoRun begins at Hampton Pier Recreation Ground in Herne Bay, offering 1.5k, 5k, 10k, and half marathon distances. This event is part of the MoRunning series supporting Movember, blending standard road running with moustaches, costumes, and fundraising for men's health initiatives. The races utilize chip timing for immediate post-finish results, and all participants receive a MoRun medal and a MoRunning headband. The event caters to various participants: children can join the 1.5k Mini MoRun, less experienced runners might opt for the 5k, and others can tackle the 10k or half marathon. The pre-race activities feature music and a warm-up session, followed by a costume contest before the half marathon. Additional medals and awards are presented for categories including fastest MoBro, fastest MoSista, best dressed, craziest costume, and fastest Mo, with refreshments available at the finish line. Parking at the event hub is extremely limited; participants should allow ample time and consider parking at a distance.

ATW Remembrance Runs

ATW Remembrance Runs take place at The Carver Barracks in Essex, the former Debden Airfield, on Remembrance weekend in November. The event supports The Felix Fund and provides four traffic-free distances: a half marathon, 10km, 5km, and a 1 mile race. The races utilize the flat concrete grounds of a disused Second World War airfield, making the running straightforward and fast underfoot. The day commemorates fallen service members, connecting it to the broader Remembrance tradition observed across Commonwealth countries since the end of the First World War. Music is provided on the course, children under eight may participate with a paying adult, and finishers receive custom medals, free event photos, and snacks at the finish.

High Lodge Canicross 5k Series - Race 1

High Lodge Canicross 5k Series - Race 1 is a dog-and-runner trail race held at High Lodge in Thetford Forest, near Brandon. This 5k event requires each runner to compete with their dog using standard canicross equipment: a fitted harness, bungee leash, and waist belt. Registration is in the morning, followed by a race brief and a staggered 09:00 start. The event is open to runners aged 16 and up, with accompanied children over 12 permitted. Dogs must be a minimum of 12 months old, and runners require their own canicross insurance. The course follows wide, hard-packed, traffic-free trails within Thetford Forest, suitable for dogs and owners running together, unlike a narrow technical trail. Timing is manual, photography is available, and water is provided, including on-course stations for dogs. The race is cupless; runners must bring their own hydration. An optional eco-friendly medal can be purchased, and the series features a festive-themed race where dressing up is encouraged.

High Lodge Canicross 5k Series - Race 2

High Lodge Canicross 5k Series Race 2 is a festive-themed dog-and-runner trail race at High Lodge in Thetford Forest, near Brandon. This is a 5k canicross-only event, where each runner is attached to their dog by proper kit. Registration runs from 08:00 to 08:45, followed by a race brief at 08:55, with staggered starts from 09:00. Timing is manual, race numbers are collected at the start, and professional photography will be present. The route follows wide, hard-packed, traffic-free trails through Thetford Forest, featuring a multi-terrain surface without road traffic. Dogs must be at least 12 months old, and runners are generally 16 or older. Children over 12 may participate if accompanied by an adult or responsible runner. Entrants require personal canicross insurance, and kit will be checked at registration: a correctly fitting harness, bungee leash, and waist belt are mandatory, with a quick-release snap hook preferred. The race is cupless to reduce waste; runners refill their own bottles at the start and finish, and water stations for dogs are available on the route. An optional eco-friendly medal can be purchased for an additional fee.

'Twas The Run Before Christmas 2026

'Twas The Run Before Christmas is a festive lap race at High Lodge in Thetford Forest, near Brandon in Suffolk. Runners can choose from 5k to 10k, 15k, half marathon, heavy half, marathon, or ultra, all on a 5.3km forest loop. There are two start times: the earlier start offers up to six hours on course, while the later start offers four hours. This is the event's sixth running and it is part of Zig Zag Running's Christmas-season schedule. The course is mostly pathway, with a smaller section of trail and woodland, so road shoes are generally suitable, though trail shoes might be considered after wet weather. The lap format allows participants to stop at a short distance or continue adding loops within the time limit; a heavy half typically involves five laps, while the ultra begins with nine laps and can extend further if time permits. The venue is self-contained, with exclusive use of the main area, an aid station at the lap point, registration at Oak Lodge, and refreshments available after finishing. Festive attire is encouraged, finishers receive a bespoke medal or a past medal via lucky dip, and a portion of each entry fee supports forest and woodland care.

WTF - Where's The Finish Run

WTF - Where's The Finish Run begins the New Year at Brandon Country Park in Brandon, Suffolk, situated in Thetford Forest. This is a timed lap race, not a fixed-distance event. Runners select either a 6-hour or a 4-hour start, completing as many 5.3 km laps as desired before their time concludes. The structure allows participants to finish after an initial 5k or 10k, progress to a half or full marathon distance, or continue into ultra territory on the same circuit. The lap course consists of gravel footpaths and some grassy sections, with marshals present and an aid station at Base Camp after each circuit. Rest periods between laps are permitted. Anyone departing Base Camp before the time limit expires is allowed to finish an additional lap, which is the origin of the race's name. A standard half marathon comprises five laps, with the possibility to extend on the day, while the standard ultra is nine laps and can be extended further if time permits. The arrangement is suitable for both novice and seasoned runners due to minimal navigation requirements, no mandatory special equipment, and simpler logistics compared to many trail ultras.

High Lodge Canicross 5k Series - Race 3

High Lodge Canicross 5k Series - Race 3 is a dog-and-runner trail race held at High Lodge in Thetford Forest, near Brandon. This 5k canicross event requires each runner to race with their dog using standard canicross equipment: a fitted harness, bungee leash, and waist belt. All kit will be checked at registration. The morning schedule is compact, beginning with registration, followed by the race brief, and a staggered 09:00 start to spread out dogs and runners on the trails. The course follows wide, hard-packed, traffic-free forest trails, offering multi-terrain footing instead of road running. Water stations are provided for dogs on the course. Runners may refill bottles at the start and finish; the race is cupless to reduce single-use waste. Entry is intended for adults, though children over 12 may participate with an adult. Dogs must be a minimum of 12 months old. Race Three has a festive theme, uses manual timing, and offers professional photography. Runners can opt to purchase an eco-friendly medal.

Windmill Way Wander 2027

Windmill Way Wander is a road-running event held at Suffolk Running Centre on Church Road, near Bury St Edmunds. Participants select their own distance on the day, with 5K, 10K, half marathon, marathon, and ultra options available. This format accommodates short runs, first long races, or extended training challenges. The event offers flexibility with an early start providing a seven-hour cutoff and a later start with a five-hour cutoff. The course follows Windmill Way and Golding Hills, crossing Higham, Gazeley, Ashley, Dalham, and Denham via village lanes. Distances under a half marathon are out-and-back. The half marathon is a single loop, the marathon consists of two loops, and the ultra extends to the 5K turnaround point. Race HQ is located at the start/lap point, offering refreshments every 10K. Parking is provided, and finishers receive a bespoke medal or, if available, a lucky-dip medal from past events.

Valentines Challenge

The Valentines Challenge is a six-hour lap event held at the Suffolk Running Centre on Church Road in Bury St Edmunds. All participants begin together at 9am. Runners then decide how much of the day they wish to complete: a 5K, a 10K, a half marathon, a marathon, or an ultra distance if capable. The format is intentionally straightforward, requiring no specific kit, minimal navigation, and an aid station at the start/finish area on each lap. The course follows a 10K out-and-back loop, bringing runners back to Base Camp between laps to rest before setting out again. Any runner departing Base Camp before the six-hour mark concludes may begin another lap, providing an incentive for those aiming for a marathon or ultra distance. This event is suitable for newcomers, club athletes, consistent high-mileage runners, and anyone seeking the structure of a looped road race without the complexities of a trail ultra.

Thetford Festival of Running

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.

View all recurring races near Ipswich →

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About 5K races in Ipswich

Ipswich Training Notes

Ipswich hosts 39 5K races in 2026 within 80 km of the city centre — upcoming dates, recurring series, and other races nearby, all in one place.

Ipswich runners keep it practical, with steady miles around Ipswich Waterfront and the River Orwell. Ipswich JAFFA Running Club gives the town its main training hub, with Monday announcements at 7:15pm and group runs from 4-8 miles at 10 to 6:30 mins per mile. The junior section meets at 6:45pm, and the beginners group makes it easy to settle in. The Waterfront loop runs 22 km with +129 m gain. 195km.

Ipswich riders get a proper club scene, not just solo Z2. Ipswich Bicycle Club has been going since 1892, with over 200 members riding road, track, cyclocross, and MTB. The club runs Saturday social no-drop rides from 12mph+ to 18mph+, and green rides run April to September at 12-14mph. National Cycle Route 1, National Cycle Route 51, Fonnereau Way, Orwell Bridge Loop, and Alton Water Circuit all sit in the regular mix. The harder climbing comes on Scenic South Suffolk, which packs 686 m into 102.1 km, and Cafe Como, which gives 643 m over 81.4 km.

July and August suit the cleanest block of base miles here, with warm days and enough daylight for evening intervals. Ipswich summers run mild by feel, but July highs sit close to London and Colchester, so locals still plan bottles properly before a longer gran fondo effort. The town centre works for cycling from both directions between 16:30 and 10:30 daily, and Buttermarket stays open both ways all day. Winter changes the rhythm more than the routes, with 55.33 air-frost nights in an average year. Ipswich runners keep club nights sharp, while riders lean harder on no-drop groups, crit training, and steady Z2.