Maverick Dark Castle 2026

Maverick Dark Castle is a trail run in Dorset held in November. It begins at Corfe Castle, with participants starting their run beside the ruins of an early Norman fortress overlooking the village. This event is part of the Maverick Race series and provides three course options: 5km, 11km, and 15km. This makes it suitable for both novice trail runners and those seeking a challenging night-time run in the countryside. The courses traverse Corfe village and proceed toward Church Knowle before ascending Knowle Hill. From the ridge, expansive views of Purbeck unfold. The Middle and Long distance routes continue to Stone Hill Down, then transition to narrow single-track trails near Blue Poole. The terrain includes mud, woodland, and open heath. The castle's significance extends beyond a dramatic start; it once guarded a passage through the Purbeck Hills between Swanage and Wareham. A fortress existed here well before the Normans, potentially even with Roman military occupation.