The Stratford Triathlon begins at Stratford Leisure Centre in Stratford-upon-Avon. The event includes a 200m swim in an indoor heated pool, followed by an 18km bike course through the Warwickshire countryside. This is a short, accessible swim-bike-run, not a long-distance challenge, and the absence of cut-off times makes it particularly suitable for beginners.
The final 2.5km run takes place on a flat towpath alongside the River Avon, with the finish located near the town's riverside. The participants include everyone from complete novices and charity runners to club and professional triathletes, meaning first-time competitors will be on the course at the same time as more experienced racers. This event has been held for over thirty years. A recurring element is the UK Triathlon Cancer Research UK Wave, where participants compete to raise funds for Cancer Research UK.