Stowmarket Scenic 7 2026 (inc. The Suffolk Grand Prix)

Experience the picturesque charm of Suffolk with the Stowmarket Scenic 7, scheduled for Sunday, November 8th, 2026. This race offers runners an opportunity to explore the rolling landscapes and quaint villages near Stowmarket.
The course begins at Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre on Gainsborough Road, where participants will start their journey through Onehouse before looping around Harleston. The route is relatively flat with just a couple of gentle undulations along the way. Runners can expect a three-mile loop back to Harleston and then return via the same path they took earlier.
Safety remains paramount for all runners; therefore, the course closes at 11:30 am sharp. Those who find themselves still on the route after this time will be running without official support from marshals or medical personnel.
For a warm-up session before the race, gather behind Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre where Stowmarket High School’s playing fields provide ample space for pre-race stretching and preparation. Participants are advised to assemble in the car park of the high school prior to being led onto Onehouse Road by race officials.
Audio devices with earphones are strictly prohibited during the event as they can hinder a runner's ability to hear approaching traffic or instructions from marshals, ensuring everyone’s safety on the road.
Race day entries must be collected at Race Headquarters. The entry fees for affiliated runners stand at £18 and unaffiliated runners at £20. All entrants need to be 16 years old by race day.
The venue offers changing facilities, refreshments, and toilets within Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre’s hall where a designated bag storage area is also available. Two water stations are strategically placed along the route for hydration throughout your run.
For those traveling from afar, limited parking will be provided at or near Stowmarket High School via Onehouse Road, but additional spots can be found at Asda Supermarket just 10 minutes away by foot. Car sharing is encouraged to minimize environmental impact and congestion around the race area.
Prizes are awarded to the top three male and female finishers as well as category winners in various age groups for both men and women. Team prizes will also be given based on performance from a minimum of three participants per team. All runners who cross the finish line receive a memento commemorating their achievement.
Course records stand at an impressive 34:16 minutes by Kieran Clements (men) in 2023, and Emily Moyes holds the women’s record with her time of 40:45 set in 2021. These benchmarks serve as inspiration for runners aiming to push their limits.
For any inquiries or concerns about race day logistics, feel free to reach out via scenic7@stowmarketstriders.org.uk. Remember that entry transfers must be done officially through the link provided in your original confirmation email and not handed over informally on race day due to strict UK Athletics regulations concerning number usage.
Join us for an unforgettable run amidst the beauty of Suffolk’s countryside, where every step brings you closer to personal triumphs and shared camaraderie.