Three Forts Challenge
Welcome to the best running event for miles! Run rolling South Downs trails, climb rewarding hills, and take in sweeping coastal views in a scenic, spacious event. Run with heart. Run the hills.
Sign up for £20-£49
Enter now3 races
Event overview
Run with heart. Run the hills. Run for charity. Run with the Three Forts.
A much-loved Sussex tradition since 1977, this is one of the most scenic and rewarding running experiences in the South.
Set across the breathtaking South Downs, runners can choose from a full marathon, half marathon or 5-mile trail run and you can even run with your canine friend, each packed with rolling hills, coastal views, and a friendly, community spirit.
Every entry supports Ferring Country Centre and local Sussex charities, making every mile truly meaningful. Unlike crowded seafront runs, the Three Forts Challenge offers space, challenge and purpose.
Highlights
- Established in 1977, one of Sussex’s most iconic and enduring trail runs
- Known as “The Tough One” with a strong local reputation
- Set in the stunning South Downs with sweeping views and rolling hills
- Start and finish at Lancing Manor Leisure Centre
- Choose from a marathon, a half-marathon or a 5-mile trail run
- Challenging, rewarding routes designed to inspire all abilities
- Friendly, community-driven atmosphere throughout
- Run solo, with friends, family, or your dog (canicross-friendly)
- Strong sense of achievement from classic trail running terrain
- Supports local causes, adding purpose to every mile
- Celebrates tradition, teamwork and the spirit of the outdoors
Will you go the extra mile?
Event photos
Event video
Event community
- Average fitness
- Beginner-friendly
- Dogs allowed at venue
- Event village
- Families
Timetable
Ability level
Whether you're an experienced runner seeking a new challenge or a novice looking to push your limits, this event offers a unique and rewarding experience for all.
Running with a dog
Runners with dogs must adhere to the guidance given by Canicross. Dogs and their owners will start with the main races, but depending on the number of runners with dogs, a separate start may be necessary.
- Changing facilities
- Free parking
- Secure bag storage
- Showers
- Toilets
Event HQ
Lancing Manor Leisure Centre
Manor Road
Lancing
West Sussex
BN15 0PH
UK
By car
You can reach Lancing Manor Leisure Centre via the A27 at Lancing Manor roundabout.
By bus
Buses run regularly and stop in layby on A27.
By rail
Train – Lancing Train Station is the closest train station. Buses run from Lancing Train Station to Lancing Leisure Centre or walking will take approximately 25 minutes.
Parking
There will be limited parking at Lancing Manor Leisure Centre but green travelling is encouraged.
Worthwhile event. Carefully organised, welcoming and inclusive. Teresa F
Outstanding scenery and cheerful volunteers throughout. A much loved event with a great atmosphere, though minor tweaks to the finish and rewards would improve the experience. Clare B
Thoroughly enjoyed the half marathon. Friendly, well organised with plenty of aid stations. One junction could have used clearer signage, but I’ll definitely be back next year. Alyson Y
Great event. Elizabeth O
A great run for a good cause. Well stocked aid stations and supportive volunteers, though some sections could benefit from clearer signage. Carl T
Well organised trail race in superb scenery. Caroline M
Beautiful but tough run, just as described. Excellent aid stations and support, though a tighter cut off and smaller field impacted the atmosphere slightly. Lisa C
Terrific event, the new course works well. Simon P
Amazing event with a very friendly atmosphere, breathtaking views and a brutal course. Janos M
Amazing experience with beautiful views and tough hills. Very well organised with great support throughout. Anonymous
Stunning scenery and amazing atmosphere. Perfect organisation and a course that keeps you coming back. Renato C
Well organised with well placed aid stations. A great event overall. Gaynor P
Beautiful event. Oliver S
Great race with beautiful scenery and strong organisation. Parking was slightly tricky but manageable nearby. Anonymous
Great race with a fantastic atmosphere and canicross friendly too. Anonymous
Very challenging hilly trail marathon. Well organised with a brilliant finish, though some areas need clearer signage. Heidi C
Fantastic event. Very well organised. Dan S
Reviews thanks to RaceCheck
Sustainability
- Bring your own cup
- Plastic-free event
- Sustainability policy
Races at event
- Sun 3 May
- #1 of 3
09:30
Age 16 & over
£20
- 5 miles trail running + 553 ft ascent
- Sun 3 May
- #2 of 3
09:15
Age 18 & over
£39
- 13.1 miles multi terrain running + 1455 ft ascent
- Sun 3 May
- #3 of 3
09:00
Age 18 & over
£49
- 26.2 miles multi terrain running + 3195 ft ascent