Norwich · United Kingdom
5K races near Norwich
20 races in 2026
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Race calendar
Upcoming 5K races near Norwich
This week 1
1JUL
Run · road · 5K
Wroxham 5K
Wroxham · 11 km away
JUL 12
12JUL
Run · road · 5K
Mildenhall 2K & 5K River Run
Bury Saint Edmunds · 58 km away
12JUL
Run · road · 5K
Norfolk Festival of Running
King's Lynn PE32 1EP · 56 km away
21JUL
Run · road · 5K
Harwich 5K Series Race 5
Harwich · 78 km away
23JUL
Run · road · 5K
Great Barrow Challenge - Day 1
Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5AX · 64 km away
+15 more 5K racesShow fewer ↓
24JUL
Run · road · 5K
Great Barrow Challenge Day 2 - 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Full Marathon or Ultra Marathon
Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5AX · 64 km away
25JUL
Run · road · 5K
Great Barrow Challenge Day 3 - 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Full Marathon or Ultra Marathon
Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5AX · 64 km away
26JUL
Run · road · 5K
Great Barrow Challenge Day 4 - 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Full Marathon or Ultra Marathon
Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5AX · 64 km away
27JUL
Run · road · 5K
Great Barrow Challenge Day 5 - 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Full Marathon or Ultra Marathon
Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5AX · 64 km away
28JUL
Run · road · 5K
Great Barrow Challenge Day 6 - 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Full Marathon or Ultra Marathon
Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5AX · 64 km away
29JUL
Run · road · 5K
Great Barrow Challenge Day 7 - 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Full Marathon or Ultra Marathon
Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5AX · 64 km away
30JUL
Run · road · 5K
Great Barrow Challenge Day 8 - 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Full Marathon or Ultra Marathon
Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5AX · 64 km away
31JUL
Run · road · 5K
Great Barrow Challenge Day 9 - 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Full Marathon or Ultra Marathon
Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5AX · 64 km away
AUG 3
1AUG
Run · road · 5K
Great Barrow Challenge Day 10 - 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Full Marathon or Ultra Marathon
Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5AX · 64 km away
22AUG
Run · road · 5K
The Lucky Clover Run
Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 · 64 km away
22AUG
Run · road · 5K
The Lucky Clover
Bury Saint Edmunds · 58 km away
SEP 4
4SEP
Run · road · 5K
Ickworth Sunset Chase
Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5QE · 62 km away
6SEP
Run · road · 5K
FEAR (Forget Everything And Run)
Brandon IP27 0AF · 48 km away
19SEP
Run · road · 5K
The Lucky Horseshoe
Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 · 64 km away
27SEP
Run · road · 5K
Run Sandringham Half Marathon, 5K & Community Mile
Norfolk · 58 km away
Norwich · 80 km
20 races mapped
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Recurring 5K races near Norwich
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.
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.
Run Luminate 5K
Run Luminate 5K is a night-time 5K held in West Norfolk, taking place at the Luminate winter lights attraction on the Royal Sandringham Estate, close to King's Lynn. The start and finish are within Sandringham Estate Royal Parkland. The race begins in the evening, allowing the light installations to be an integral part of the run itself. This event is designed for a wide range of participants, from novice runners to experienced 5K participants, and is not intended as a specialist or elite competition.
The course incorporates the Luminate attraction and adjacent estate trails, concluding within the grounds of Sandringham, the Royal Family's winter home. All finishers will receive a medal. The event village offers music, food, beverages, and amenities for after the race. Key logistical points are conveniently located: parking is approximately a 30-second walk from the start line, registration is a short distance from the parking area, and a bag drop is unnecessary because of the proximity of the car park.
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.
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.
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.
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.
OMG - (One Mile 2 Go) Run
OMG, short for One Mile 2 Go, is a lap-based trail race held at Bawsey Country Park, PE32 1EP, situated on the B1145 between the Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Gayton. Participants can select distances ranging from 5k and 10k to half marathon, marathon, or ultra. Start-time cut-offs are six hours for the earlier start and four hours for the later one. This event is practical for individuals testing a new distance, as the format allows runners to extend their half marathon with extra laps or to push an ultra from the standard nine laps toward twelve if time permits.
The course incorporates sand, gravel, and grass. Road shoes are generally suitable, though trail shoes are beneficial after wet weather. Race HQ, the lap point, the water and aid station, and the start are all located in the same central area. Runners pass the car park each lap, simplifying navigation and logistics. There is no baggage drop, bibs are collected upon arrival, and the race commences when the Race Director signals. The event is cupless, requiring runners to provide their own bottle or cup. Finishers receive a bespoke medal, with an alternative finisher-medal option available. Virtual entries are also offered for those who wish to receive the medal without attending in person.
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.
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Other races in the next 90 days
About 5K races in Norwich
Norwich Miles And Quiet Roads
Norwich hosts 31 5K races in 2026 within 80 km of the city centre — upcoming dates, recurring series, and other races nearby, all in one place.
Locals run Norwich through parks first, because Eaton Park, Chapelfield Gardens, Waterloo Park, Wensum Park, and Whitlingham Park all make easy loops. Whitlingham Park lake gives you just short of 4km around the water, so a few laps rack up the K's fast. The loop covers 6 miles with short road crossings, mostly paved early, then gravel and dirt further out. 45pm. Norwich Road Runners keep the club scene steady. Run Norwich, Norwich Half Marathon, and Larking Gowen Norwich Half Marathon are the anchor dates.
Locals ride from the city centre onto National Cycle Route 1, the Pedalways, and quiet roads that open into big Norfolk skies. Velo Club Norwich brings the group discipline, with Sunday rides leaving the Norwich Millennium Forum at 9am and usually covering 50-60 miles with coffee and cake halfway. Norwich ABC covers club rides, time trialling, circuit racing, cyclocross, Audax, MTB, and gravel, so there is always a wheel to follow. Norfolk stays pretty flat, but the south has rolling countryside towards Loddon, and gravel events have short, rolling hills, rougher farm tracks, and enough climbing for intervals. Norwich 100 Bike Ride and Norfolk Gravel Epic are the anchor rides.
Spring and Summer suit fast training rides, Tuesday evening chaingangs, base miles, and clean laps when the parks and lanes feel easy to use. Summer can bring sea fog or haar during the summer half of the year, so locals still dress with a bit of sense before early starts. Winter changes the rhythm more than the map. Snow or sleet showers can arrive on a northerly or easterly wind, Marriott's Way can turn from smooth gravel to open muddy fields in places, and riders shift towards steadier Z2, cyclocross habits, and cafe rides while runners keep parks and road loops in play.