Welcome to Thetford Forest's Summer Backyard Ultra, an exhilarating endurance challenge set amidst the serene beauty of High Lodge in Suffolk. This late summer edition offers runners both a full-scale ultra race and two shorter options: 6-hour and 12-hour entries at reduced costs. The main event is designed for those who thrive under pressure; you will run precisely 4.167 miles every hour, with the goal of outlasting your competitors until only one remains capable of completing an entire loop within a single hour's time limit. This grueling format tests not just physical endurance but mental fortitude as well. For participants opting for the shorter races, there are no winners declared and no prizes awarded. However, these reduced-cost entries provide an excellent opportunity to experience the unique Backyard Ultra style without committing to the full event duration. The 6-hour race has a lowered age limit of 12 years old but requires parental supervision throughout. The course itself winds through Thetford Forest's stunning landscapes, featuring wide and flat paths that are mostly gravel or grass with excellent drainage. Though there is only one small hill along the route, it does not hinder the fast lap times achievable here. The terrain is well-marked to ensure easy navigation for all runners throughout the event. Competitors will camp free of charge on site but must adhere strictly to size limitations and environmental guidelines due to space constraints. Portable toilets are provided near each camping area and maintained by organizers, ensuring cleanliness during the race week. Aid stations at the start/finish line offer essential supplies such as hot and cold water along with basic snacks like pot noodles and pasta pots from 12:00 PM on Saturday until 8:00 PM Sunday. Crews can also use a designated cooking area for heating food, but no stoves are allowed in campsite areas due to fire regulations. The event is fully equipped with chip timing technology, offering precise results for the winner who will receive £250 and free entry into the following summer's Suffolk Backyard Ultra. Elite runners may qualify for significant discounts based on their performance history over the past two years. Registration closes 14 days before race day, after which no changes to personal details or event options can be made without contacting customer service directly via email. Parking is managed centrally and costs £12 per vehicle when purchased online; late registrations incur a higher fee of £15 on-site. Safety measures include mandatory headtorches from 9:00 PM onwards, strict adherence to the course route, and no support or kit exchanges until after each loop's completion. DNF runners must ring the "Bell of Shame" upon withdrawal. This event promises an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, competitive spirit, and community camaraderie, making it a must-attend for endurance enthusiasts looking to push their limits in one of Britain’s most scenic locations.
Races Offered
Thetford Back Yard Ultra 12 hour Event 2026
Sep 12, 2026
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Thetford Back Yard Ultra 12 hour Event 2026
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46 days remaining
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£100.00
Thetford Back Yard Ultra 12 hour Event 2027
Sep 12, 2026
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Thetford Back Yard Ultra 12 hour Event 2027
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46 days remaining
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£80.00
Thetford Back Yard Ultra 6 hour Event 2026
Sep 12, 2026
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Thetford Back Yard Ultra 6 hour Event 2026
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Type —
Running
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46 days remaining
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£80.00
Thetford Back Yard Ultra 6 hour Event 2027
Sep 12, 2026
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Distance —
Thetford Back Yard Ultra 6 hour Event 2027
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Type —
Running
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46 days remaining
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£60.00
Thetford Back Yard Ultra Full Event 2026
Sep 12, 2026
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Thetford Back Yard Ultra Full Event 2026
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46 days remaining
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£120.00
Thetford Back Yard Ultra Full Event 2027
Sep 12, 2026
straighten
Distance —
Thetford Back Yard Ultra Full Event 2027
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
46 days remaining
sell
£100.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in High Lodge.
thermostatTemperature
10.7° / 16.3°
wb_sunnyFeels like
7.2° / 13.6°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
7h 49m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
6.5 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
17.0 km/h (Gentle breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (3.5)
humidity_mid
Humidity
82.9%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
06:47
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Sunset
19:29
Hotels & Places to Stay
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