Rothwell Cakeathon

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From It's Grim up North running

  • Date Sun 2nd May 2027
  • Time 08:30
  • Location Skelton Lake Services off the M1 (J45)
  • Price £26.00 - £39.00
  • Races 5 races
  • Distances 10 Mile

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Event summary

Join us for the exhilarating Rothwell Cakeathon, hosted by It's Grim Up North Running, on Sunday, May 2, 2027. Set against the scenic backdrop of Skelton Lake Services in Leeds, this eco-friendly event offers a unique trail running experience that combines stunning nature with community spirit. Participants can choose from various race distances, including 5 miles, 10 miles, 15 miles, 20 miles, and a full marathon, all designed to accommodate both seasoned runners and newcomers alike.

The course takes you through the picturesque Rothwell Country Park, featuring beautiful woodland, riverside paths, and breathtaking views of Leeds City Centre—a highlight that past participants rave about! With a generous 6.5-hour cut-off time and supportive marshals cheering you on, you’ll have ample opportunity to enjoy the journey. Plus, for every entry, 50p will be donated to the RSPB, making this event not just a race, but a way to give back to nature. After crossing the finish line, celebrate your achievement with a bespoke medal and a selection of delicious cakes and hot drinks. Don’t miss out on this fantastic day of trail running, camaraderie, and cake!

Rothwell Cakeathon

Sun 2nd May 2027

A muffin tin with chocolate muffins, scattered crumbs, chocolate pieces, and a metallic ice cream scoop on a dark countertop, with ample empty space to the right.

Organiser's Description

Discover the Ultimate Trail Running Experience at Leeds Skelton Lake Services

Get ready for a unique running adventure starting from one of the greenest motorway service stations in the UK — Skelton Lake Services off the M1 (J45). This eco-friendly hub is a hidden gem for nature lovers and twitchers (that’s bird watchers!), featuring a bird hide on the rooftop with fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities. Plus, all runners have full access to the onsite facilities — and for every participant, 50p is donated to the RSPB to support the important work they do.

The Course: Explore Rothwell Country Park

This trail event begins right behind the services and heads into the scenic Rothwell Country Park — a beautiful blend of woodland, riverside paths, grass trails, and a touch of road. Expect one friendly undulation that rewards you with a stunning view of Leeds City Centre — a highlight past runners always rave about!

Whether you’re chasing a medal, a personal best, or simply a great day outdoors, the varied terrain makes this one of our favourite courses. With multiple distances and a generous 6.5-hour cut-off, both walkers and runners are welcome.

 

Support on Course

- Water & feed stations approximately every 3 miles
- Please bring a reusable cup or bottle — we aim to be cupless and eco-focused
- Friendly marshals offering encouragement every step of the way

Cross the Finish Line to:

A bespoke medal
 A selection of delicious cakes
Hot & cold drinks — because nothing beats a well-earned cup of tea!

We love a social finish area, so make sure you stay and celebrate with fellow runners.

 

Headphone Policy

For safety, large over-ear headphones are not permitted. If needed, please use:

- Bone-conducting headphones, or
- One ear in, one ear out

There may be unmarshalled road crossings, so please remain alert throughout.

 

Event Venue & Parking

Leeds Skelton Lake Services
M1 J45, Skelton, Leeds LS9 0AS
what3words: ///vivid.larger.erase

- Plenty of FREE parking — please follow marshal instructions
- Car sharing is encouraged to reduce environmental impact

 

Registration & Start Times

Registration opens from 07:30am — please allow time to park, register, and use facilities.

- Marathon – 08:30 (5 × 5-mile loops + 1.2-mile out-and-back)
- 20 Miles – 08:30 (4 × 5-mile loops)
- 15 Miles – 09:00 (3 × 5-mile loops)
- 10 Miles – 09:00 (2 × 5-mile loops)
- 5 Miles – 09:30 (1 × 5-mile loop)

 

Transfers & Deferrals

You can manage your own transfer directly on our website — This can be done up to 7 days before the events

Why You’ll Love This Event

- Trail running in Leeds
- Bird watching and nature routes
- Ideal for beginners & experienced trail runners
- Stunning scenery with city views
- Supportive and welcoming community atmosphere

This event is Licensed by the TRA Under UKA rules

Races

  • 20 Miler

    Sun 2nd May 2027 (08:30)

    £37.00

    UK Athletics (UKA) save £2.00

    Booking for more than 1?
  • Marathon

    Sun 2nd May 2027 (08:30)

    £39.00

    UK Athletics (UKA) save £2.00

    Booking for more than 1?
  • 10 Mile

    Sun 2nd May 2027 (09:00)

    £28.00

    UK Athletics (UKA) save £2.00

    Booking for more than 1?
  • 15 Miler

    Sun 2nd May 2027 (09:00)

    £32.00

    UK Athletics (UKA) save £2.00

    Booking for more than 1?
  • 5 Mile

    Sun 2nd May 2027 (09:30)

    £26.00

    UK Athletics (UKA) save £2.00

    Booking for more than 1?

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Location

WH Smith, Leeds, LS9 0AS, United Kingdom

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2 May 2027

£26.00 - £39.00