Cheddar Gorge Challenge (Marathon, Half, 10km, 6km, Fun Runs)

Name: Cheddar Gorge Challenge (Marathon, Half, 10km, 6km, Fun Runs)
Brand: Relish Running races
Rating: 4.65 (10 reviews)

4.7 · 10 reviews

From Relish Running races

Date Sun 14th June 2026
Location Bristol, Somerset
Price £8.10 - £75.60
Races 16 races
Distances 5km, 10km, Half Marathon, Marathon, 10 Mile

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Two runners are on a trail overlooking a scenic valley. One, wearing a red shirt, walks while the other, in a black and pink outfit, stops to take a photo with a smartphone. The landscape features rolling green fields and distant mountains under a clear sky.

Cheddar Gorge Challenge (Marathon, Half, 10km, 6km, Fun Runs)

Sun 14th June 2026

4.7 · 10 reviews

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Event summary

Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the Cheddar Gorge Challenge, taking place on Sunday, June 14, 2026, in the stunning surroundings of Bristol, Somerset! Organized by Relish Running races, this event offers a trail run for everyone in the family, featuring distances of 1km, 3km, 6km, 10km, Half Marathon, and a full Marathon.

Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking scenery as you traverse the iconic Cheddar Gorge and the beautiful Mendip Hills. With its varied terrain, including challenging ascents and the notorious 'Hell Steps,' this race promises exciting trails and spectacular views at every turn. Whether you're enjoying the serene woodlands or tackling the exhilarating cliff-top paths, you'll be running through some of the most remarkable landscapes in the UK. Join us for a day filled with adventure, camaraderie, and the joy of running in nature's playground!

Cheddar Gorge Challenge (Marathon, Half, 10km, 6km, Fun Runs)

Sun 14th June 2026

Aerial view of Cheddar Gorge, located in Somerset, England, featuring steep cliffs and lush greenery. A winding road is visible in the valley. Beyond the gorge, the landscape stretches into rolling hills and a distant town under a partly cloudy sky.

Two runners celebrate with their arms raised, both smiling and holding medals. They are wearing matching yellow and green athletic jerseys with black shorts. The woman has race number 315 and the man has number 316. Red flags and a grassy field are visible in the background.

A group of runners, wearing race numbers, are participating in a trail run on a sunny day. The leading runner, in a blue shirt and black shorts, is smiling. They are running on a grassy, uneven path with trees on the left and blue skies above.

Three runners take a photo on a hill with a scenic backdrop. Two in running gear with race bibs pose, while one with "Itchen Spitfires Running Club" on a shirt takes the photo. They overlook a valley with greenery and a cloudy sky.

Organiser's Description

This is one of the most scenic events in the Country, and there's a trail run here for all the family - 1k, 3k, 6k, 10k, Half Marathon and Marathon distances, across Cheddar Gorge and the Mendip Hills. Cheddar Gorge is steep in places and very steep everywhere else, and the terrain is varied and exciting! The routes will take in breathtaking views and lung aching ascents, most notably the affectionately dubbed 'Hell Steps', from where you will experience wonderful cliff top running along the Gorge edge.

Whichever distance you are taking part in, you will see some of the most beautiful and remarkable landscapes of any run in the country, with a mix of open fields, rocky terrain and woodland trails. The 10km, Half Marathon and Marathon all include breath taking running along the gorge cliff top path which has the most incredible views across the Somerset levels and the Bristol Channel.

Races

1km Fun Run

Provisional Start 10:20am

£8.10

Booking for more than 1?
3km Fun Run

Provisional Start Time 10:10

£16.20

Booking for more than 1?
6km

Provisional Start Time 11.00 - 11:10

£28.08

Booking for more than 1?
Cheddar Gorge Challenge 10km - Wave 1

Provisional Start 11:20am

£34.56

Booking for more than 1?
Cheddar Gorge Challenge 10km - Wave 2

Provisional Start 11:30am

£34.56

Booking for more than 1?
Cheddar Gorge Challenge 10km - Wave 3

Provisional Start 11:40am

£34.56

Booking for more than 1?
Cheddar Gorge Challenge 10km - Wave 4

Provisional Start 11:50am

£34.56

Booking for more than 1?
Cheddar Gorge Challenge Half Marathon - Wave 1

Provisional Start 10:20am

£49.68

Booking for more than 1?
Cheddar Gorge Challenge Half Marathon - Wave 2

Provisional Start 10.30am

£49.68

Booking for more than 1?
Cheddar Gorge Challenge Half Marathon - Wave 3

Provisional Start 10:50am

£49.68

Booking for more than 1?
Cheddar Gorge Challenge Half Marathon - Wave 4

Provisional Start 11:00am

£49.68

Booking for more than 1?
Cheddar Gorge Challenge Marathon - Wave 1

Provisional Start 10:00am

£64.80

Booking for more than 1?
Cheddar Gorge Challenge Marathon - Wave 2

Provisional Start 10:00am

£64.80

Booking for more than 1?
Bronze Omnium

Provisional Start 11:10am 6km + 100m + 1km + Hill Climb, Provisional Start Times 11:00-11:10 + 13:30 + 14:30 + 15:30

£59.40

Booking for more than 1?
Silver Omnium

10km + 100m + 1km + Hill Climb, Provisional Start Times 11:10-11:20, + 13:30 + 14:30 + 15:30

£64.80

Booking for more than 1?
Gold Omnium

Half Marathon + 100m + 1km + Hill Climb, Provisional Start Times 10:00 + 13:30 + 14:30 + 15:30

£75.60

Booking for more than 1?

Book

1km Fun Run

Provisional Start 10:20am

£8.10

Booking for more than 1?
3km Fun Run

Provisional Start Time 10:10

£16.20

Booking for more than 1?
6km

Provisional Start Time 11.00 - 11:10

£28.08

Booking for more than 1?
Cheddar Gorge Challenge 10km - Wave 1

Provisional Start 11:20am

£34.56

Booking for more than 1?
Cheddar Gorge Challenge 10km - Wave 2

Provisional Start 11:30am

£34.56

Booking for more than 1?
Cheddar Gorge Challenge 10km - Wave 3

Provisional Start 11:40am

£34.56

Booking for more than 1?
Cheddar Gorge Challenge 10km - Wave 4

Provisional Start 11:50am

£34.56

Booking for more than 1?
Cheddar Gorge Challenge Half Marathon - Wave 1

Provisional Start 10:20am

£49.68

Booking for more than 1?
Cheddar Gorge Challenge Half Marathon - Wave 2

Provisional Start 10.30am

£49.68

Booking for more than 1?
Cheddar Gorge Challenge Half Marathon - Wave 3

Provisional Start 10:50am

£49.68

Booking for more than 1?
Cheddar Gorge Challenge Half Marathon - Wave 4

Provisional Start 11:00am

£49.68

Booking for more than 1?
Cheddar Gorge Challenge Marathon - Wave 1

Provisional Start 10:00am

£64.80

Booking for more than 1?
Cheddar Gorge Challenge Marathon - Wave 2

Provisional Start 10:00am

£64.80

Booking for more than 1?
Bronze Omnium

Provisional Start 11:10am 6km + 100m + 1km + Hill Climb, Provisional Start Times 11:00-11:10 + 13:30 + 14:30 + 15:30

£59.40

Booking for more than 1?
Silver Omnium

10km + 100m + 1km + Hill Climb, Provisional Start Times 11:10-11:20, + 13:30 + 14:30 + 15:30

£64.80

Booking for more than 1?
Gold Omnium

Half Marathon + 100m + 1km + Hill Climb, Provisional Start Times 10:00 + 13:30 + 14:30 + 15:30

£75.60

Booking for more than 1?

6k & 10k

The race starts at Black Rock with views of the route ahead along the Cheddar Gorge stretching out into the distance.

A great variety of terrain makes this an all round challenge with a mix of open meadows, rocky outcrops, a few steps and cliff edge running.

Cheddar Gorge is one of the Seven Wonders of the UK and running around the gorge is very special experience - definitely a race not to be missed!

Course Description

Starting from the event village, the first 1.5km is nice and flat and long range views through Cheddar Gorge open up as you run along. There is a little descent to bring you past the first drinks station, hopefully you don’t need a drink 1 mile in! The drinks station is positioned for you on the return leg, around 7.5km in.

2-2.5km is a gentle downhill, leading into some more technical sections with little rises through woodlands. After 2.5km there is a split, the 6km runners branch off and make a right turn and start their climb up the valley. 10km runners process straight ahead, through a kissing gate and then on to start the climb of the infamous Hell Steps. Not one, but two rather large flights of steps which will bring you to the most amazing view.

Once off the cliff top path the route meanders through some woodland for the big reveal at 3.5km, a great view of the gorge mouth with views across the Somerset levels

From here there is a gradual descent to the 4km marker with more wonderful views, and to take you even closer, we even hop over the perimeter wall for a brief moment. You are not actually as close as it may appear as you approach the wall ;-) Just before the 5km marker runners will make their way to the first drinks station. Just a reminder we are now expecting runners to be self sufficient; for covid reasons and environmental reasons, so whilst you are always welcome at a drinks station, please carry your own water too.

After the 5km point there is another little rise where you can take in the views again over your right shoulder. After some open fields, there is a short, steep and stoney descent - take care here. You will also see runners from the 6km race joining you at the point. Both routes converge and carry on up the other side of the dip.

After a descent you will reach the first drinks station again, there is another drinks station (FS1). 6km and 10km runners need to go straight ahead, as shortly after the drinks station the Half Marathon runners will branch off left (Sunday races). The area ahead is steeped in history; the whole area has been extensively mined from the Roman times through to Victorian. This area is generally flat, though runners will have to clamber over 10ft high walls which form the old mineral settling pools from the lead mines.

Shortly after the 9km point runners will turn right and climb out of this little valley which is called Velvet Bottom. The final km is a lap around the event area to get you up to the full distances.

There is approximately 120m height change on the 6km and 235m height change on the 10km.

half marathon

Our new route is a 1 lap half marathon around Cheddar Gorge and Beacon Batch, the highest point on the Mendip Hills. Both are very hilly and both have amazing views - have a read of the course descriptions and see the pictures below!

There are also some great updates since 2017, taking out the narrow out and back stations and covering some new ground to make a bigger 1 loop course.

Starting above Black Rock, the first 1km is a gentle meander down hill towards Black Rock, followed by a gentle downhill on a very rocky track. The first climb comes after 1.5km, a short sharp climb off the main track as the route heads towards Cheddar. After 1km, the 6km runners branch off and make a right turn and start their climb up the valley. 10km and Half Marathon runners process straight ahead, hope over a stone stile and start the climb of the infamous Hell Steps. Not one, but two rather large flights of steps which will bring you to the most amazing view looking right down the gorge.

Once off the cliff top path the route meanders through some woodland for the big reveal, a great view of the gorge mouth with views across the Somerset levels. And to take you even closer, we even hop over the perimeter wall for a brief moment. You are not as close as it may appear so do not worry...just be careful with those selfies! (2 mile marker)

The first Feed Station (FS) is a welcome site and will offer a great time opportunity to refresh and replenish following the tough climb. From here there is a gradual rise, which kicks up at the end as runners enter Piney Sleight. Some good flat running ahead for the next 800m or so past the 3 mile marker. Coming up next is a short, steep and stoney descent - take care here. You will also see runners from the 6km race joining you at the point. All routes converge and carry on up the other side of the dip. As you contour around the ridge you will have really nice views across the valley to the event village and festival site.

After making a quick 180 degree turn a decent at the 4 mile mark, there is Feed Station ahead. Shortly after the drinks station the Half Marathon runners will turn left off the main track, where as the 6km and 10km runners will go straight ahead. There are open fields and a slight climb to get towards the 5mile marker shortly after which some ducking and weaving will be required to negotiate a little used footpath which will be nice and slippery if wet.

Up ahead is a road crossing, please pay attention to the marshals instructions and only cross when you feel it is safe to do so. The other side of the road, more fields and more climbing, including a beautiful little woodland valley which we hop through. The false horizon finally comes to an end with an old World War 2 bunker, now a rather odd looking grass mound, but integral in it's day. It used to house generators which powered a huge series of lights in the land ahead which we were laid out to mimic the railways of Bristol and were used as a decoy for German bombers.

Past the bunker and make a right turn into some very boggy land, prime ankle twisting territory so please be careful here. At 6 miles you will make a left turn and head up towards Beacon Batch, the highest point on the Mendip Hills at 325m. Finally there is some flat running along to mile 7, followed by a great big downhill run towards the feed station at mile 8. This was a main road in Roman days and retains the name of the Motorway among the locals and you will be able to see why as you speed down the hill. From here there are great views over the Bristol channel and over towards Wales.

Mile 9 is relatively flat with some stream crossings and undergrowth to negotiate in parts. Followed by another big climb back up to Beacon Batch. That is the last big climb of the route and you could almost say it is downhill to the finish from here, aside from one or two little bumps. The next feed stations is at the two masts on the horizon accessed along a narrow little track. After the feed station comes the only real tarmac road section (11 mile marker) before we hop over the road and back onto the trails.

There is another road crossing ahead so please take care. You are now at the top of Velvet Bottom and a slight downhill ahead brings you to the point there the 10km route meets you. Routes converge and head up and across the valley shortly after the 12 mile marker and take a flat path along the top ridge of velvet bottom towards the finish line ahead!

The route has 4 feed stations over approx 13.2miles, and approx 535m of height change.

marathon

The Cheddar Gorge Marathon is a 2 lap course taking in biggest and most beautiful climbs around the Mendip Hills and Cheddar Gorge. Runners will run along valley floors that have been the site of british industry from Roman all the way through to Victorian times; and the 10ft dam walls (of the old lead mining settling pits) which you will negotiate bear testament to this. Also on the course you will see World War II bunkers, breath taking views over to the Welsh Mountains, conquer the mighty Hell Steps (twice!) and enjoy stunning running along gorge edge.

The marathon is two laps of the half marathon route so will follow half marathon signs as described below. Starting above Black Rock, the first 1km is a gentle meander down hill towards Black Rock, followed by a gentle downhill on a very rocky track. The first climb comes after 1.5km, a short sharp climb off the main track as the route heads towards Cheddar. After 1km, the 6km runners branch off and make a right turn and start their climb up the valley. 10km and Half Marathon runners process straight ahead, hope over a stone stile and start the climb of the infamous Hell Steps. Not one, but two rather large flights of steps which will bring you to the most amazing view looking right down the gorge.

Once off the cliff top path the route meanders through some woodland for the big reveal, a great view of the gorge mouth with views across the Somserset levels. And to take you even closer, we even hop over the perimeter wall for a brief moment, but don't worry, you are not as close to the egde as you might think....just be careful with those seflies! (2 mile marker)

The first Feed Station (FS) is a welcome site and will offer a great time opportunity to refresh and replenish following the Hell Steps. From here there is a gradual rise, which kicks up at the end as runners enter Piney Sleight. Some good flat running ahead for the next 800m or so (3 mile marker). Coming up next is a short, steep and stoney descent - take care here. You will also see runners from the 6km race joining you at the point. All routes converge and carry on up the other side of the dip. As you contour around the ridge you will have really nice views across the valley to the event village and festival site.

After making a quick 180 degree turn a decent at the 4mile mark, there is Feed Station ahead. Shortly after the drinks station the Half Marathon runners will turn left off the main track, where as the 6km and 10km runners will go straight ahead. There are open fields and a slight climb to get towards the 5mile marker shortly after which some ducking and weaving will be required to negotiate a little used footpath which will be nice and slippery if wet.

Up ahead is a road crossing, please pay attention to the marshals instructions and only cross when you feel it is safe to do so. The other side of the road, more fields and more climbing, including a beautiful little woodland valley which we hop through. The false horizon finally comes to an end with an old World Way 2 bunker, now a rather odd looking grass mound, but integral in it's day. It used to house generators which powered a huge series of lights in the land ahead which we were laid out to mimic the railways of Bristol and were used as a decoy for German bombers.

Past the bunker and make a right turn into some very boggy land, prime ankle twisting territory so please be careful here. At 6miles you will make a left turn and head up towards Beacon Batch, the highest point on the Mendip Hills at 325m. Finally there is some flat running along to mile 7, followed by a great big downhill run towards the feed station at mile 8. This was a main road in Roman days and retains the name of the Motorway among the locals and you will be able to see why as you speed down the hill. From here there are great views over the Bristol channel and over towards Wales.

Mile 9 is relatively flat with some stream crossings and undergrowth to negotiate in parts. Followed by another big climb back up to Beacon Batch. That is the last big climb of the route and you could almost day it is downhill to the finish from here, aside from one or two little bumps. The next feed stations is at the two masts on the horizon accessed along a narrow little track. After the feed station comes the only real tarmac road section (11 mile marker) before we hop over the road and back onto the trails.

There is another road crossing ahead so please take care. You are now at the top of Velvet Bottom and a slight downhill ahead brings you to the point there the 10km route meets you. Routes converge and head up and across the valley shortly after the 12 mile marker and take a flat path along the top ridge of velvet bottom towards the event village.

Runners will have to side step the finish gantry after completing 1 lap, restock on goodies, before heading out for lap 2. Runners must have started lap 2 within 3hrs of their race start or you will be withdrawn from the marathon event. There is an additional cut off at mile 21.2, the feed station by the 8 mile marker on the map below, for runners on their 2nd lap. This cut off will be at 4hrs 50mins from the event start.

There are 9 feed stations across the course to keep you well fed over this ~26.4miles course. There is approx 1070m of height change over the full route.

Event Video

Reviews

4.6

10 reviews

Calum

·3 months ago

Absolutely brilliant. I was initially a little apprehensive as it was my first organised trail run event, but the setup was brilliant. The entire marathon course was clearly marked and easy to follow the whole way through, the support from the marshals was amazing. Plenty of much needed aid stations packed with goodies and everything you need to keep going. The route itself is beautiful. As a runner it's 5 stars, only reason I can fault it is because if you're a spectator, the start/finish area is very limited with food choice and refreshments, needs more if your family is stuck there supporting you for the duration of such a challenging and enjoyable marathon.

Matthew

·a year ago

Well organised and great atmosphere Family friendly.Well marked route with well stocked aid stations and great support from Marshalls etc Will take part again Thanks 👍

Rupinder

·a year ago

Amazing race so beautiful and well managed just amazing will definitely do again

John

·a year ago

The course is beautiful and very challenging- nobody will be getting a PB on it! The only issue was the lack of clarity on start times. I was never sent an explicit timing and when I arrived (having queued for 30mins to get into the carpark) I had missed wave one- it was luck that I was actually in a later wave.

Billy

·a year ago

Race was great a real challenging course well organised and a great atmosphere. Plenty of hydration stations and the whole course covered by great marshals. However please find a photo of the medals issued since 2019 as all photos on relish and etch rock sites are very very misleading.

Patrick

·2 years ago

Well organized race, easy to follow route. I did the half marathon and there were plenty enough feed and water stations. Would definitely do another race with Relish.

Henry

·3 years ago

Great, well managed event with fantastic marshals and food stations. Tough course but well worth it for the views. Highly recommended. Thank you to all.

Lucy

·3 years ago

A fantastic weekend of racing, something for all members of the family which was lovely. Superb organisation, supportive marshalls, brilliantly marked course and fabulous scenery. Would definitely recommend.

David

·3 years ago

Beautiful course with stunning views over Cheddar Gorge. Properly hilly, up and down all the way. Great marshal team and aid stations - thanks Relish Running 🙌

Keith

·6 years ago

Well run event. Event was exceptionally put together. Only issue outside of control of organisers was weather

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Relish Running races

Relish strive to put on the very best, family and beginner friendly events in the most beautiful and unique locations.

Cheddar Gorge Challenge (Marathon, Half, 10km, 6km, Fun Runs)

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Reviews

4.6

Location

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Maybe

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Cheddar Gorge Challenge (Marathon, Half, 10km, 6km, Fun Runs)

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Parking

facilities

prizes

Important nOtes

fun runs

6k & 10k

half marathon

marathon

Camping at the Top of the Gorge

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4.6

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Who's In

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