Pitsford Water Trail Races

Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of Northamptonshire with Race Harborough’s Pitsford Water Trail Races. This year's edition offers runners two distances to choose from—10k and half marathon—both winding through lush trails, tracks, and picturesque villages.
Starting at Brixworth Country Park on March 7th, the event promises a blend of challenging terrain and stunning vistas. The shorter 10k route is ideal for those new to trail running or looking for an invigorating introduction to this exhilarating discipline. Participants will traverse the dam leading towards Pitsford Water before returning via trails along the water’s edge back to Brixworth Country Park.
The half marathon, on the other hand, provides a more substantial challenge with its extended journey through rolling countryside and charming villages like Holcot, Hannington, Walgrave, Old, and Scaldwell. The route features several stiles between fields that require careful navigation but offer rewarding views of Northamptonshire’s diverse landscape.
Both races are meticulously marked to ensure runners stay on track throughout their adventure. Water stations will be strategically placed along the half marathon course at Holcot (mile 3), Walgrave (mile 6.5), and Scaldwell (mile 9.5). The shorter 10k route includes a single water station in Holcot, providing hydration when needed most.
Race Harborough ensures safety with professional first aid support both on-site and along the course. Participants are encouraged to wear trail shoes or footwear with good grip for optimal performance and comfort over rugged terrain.
In addition to individual race accolades—medals will be awarded to all finishers—the event introduces a new series challenge in 2027: the Harborough Water Trail Race Series. By entering one of these races, participants can opt into this exciting competition across three distinct events at Pitsford, Rutland, and Grafham waters throughout the year.
The series culminates with bespoke medals for top performers based on cumulative times across all three races, alongside trophies for the fastest male and female runners. This initiative not only fosters community spirit but also encourages athletes to experience different water trails in Northamptonshire over the course of a season.
Race day registration opens at 07:00 AM with race numbers, timing chips, and pre-ordered t-shirts available upon arrival. The half marathon starts promptly at 09:00 AM followed by the 10k starting line-up just fifteen minutes later.
With its blend of natural beauty, challenging terrain, and supportive community atmosphere, Race Harborough’s Pitsford Water Trail Races invite runners to explore one of England's most captivating landscapes while pushing their limits in a friendly environment.
For more information about this event or the full series challenge, visit the official Race Harborough Facebook page for updates.