Trail Blazer: Dam Busters | 10K
Set in the heart of an AONB on the legendary Pennine Way, this brand-new 10K race brings a signature community, energy, and wild trails to one of the UK's most iconic landscapes.
- Sun 19 Apr 2026
10:00
Age 16 & over
£14
- 10 km trail running
Event overview
Choose between a 10K or Half Marathon, both starting from the stunning Blackton Grange Estate near Barnard Castle. Expect moors, dams, and rugged trails that showcase everything we love about running in nature.
You don’t need to be a Spine Race veteran to take this on, just bring your sense of adventure and join the community for a day of pure trail joy.
Highlights
- Brand-new trail event in one of the UK’s most iconic landscapes
- Set in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
- Run along sections of the legendary Pennine Way; the same terrain used by Spine Race athletes
- Choose your challenge: an accessible 10K or more demanding half marathon
- Friendly, inclusive atmosphere; no need to be an elite runner, just bring your sense of adventure
- Relaxed, community-driven event with no pressure and a focus on enjoying the outdoors
This event is part of Trail Blazer: Dam Busters.
Event photos
Event details
- Average fitness
- Beginner-friendly
- Event village
- Hilly
- Marshals
- Mostly traffic free
- No cut off time
- Single start
Route highlights
- Start and finish at Blackton Grange Estate, surrounded by the striking landscapes of Upper Teesdale
- Expansive moorland, undulating hills and wide-open skies at every turn
- Pass iconic reservoirs and dams that inspire the event’s “Dam Busters” name
- Varied terrain including technical trails, gravel paths and smooth, runnable stretches
- Remote, unspoilt surroundings delivering a true escape into nature
- The half marathon route increases the challenge with more climbing and lofty views
- The spacious backdrop of rugged North Pennines scenery throughout
- Rural
Event HQ
Blackton Grange Estate
Barnard Castle
County Durham
DL12 9UX
UK
Blackton Grange Estate sits in the heart of the North Pennines, around 20 minutes west of Barnard Castle. It’s a remote, beautiful spot so please plan ahead.
Due to the rural location, public transport is extremely limited, so driving is recommended. Car sharing is encouraged.
By car
From the North
Follow the A1(M) south to the A66 (Scotch Corner). Head west towards Barnard Castle, then follow signs for Cotherstone and Baldersdale. Blackton Grange Estate is signposted from there.
From the South
Take the A1(M) north to the A66 (Scotch Corner), then follow the same route via Barnard Castle and Cotherstone.
Sustainability
- Lift sharing advised
How to enter
- Age 16 & over
- Enter online
Other races at event
- Sun 19 Apr
- #2 of 2
10:00
Age 16 & over
£18
- 13.1 miles trail running