Sussex Downs Trail

The Sussex Downs Trail takes place in Lewes on 28 November 2026, with trail races over a half marathon (21.1 km), 15 km and 10 km, starting within minutes of each other: the 21.1 km with 382 m of ascent at 9.15am, the 15 km with 272 m at 9.25am, and the 10 km with 200 m at 9.35am. All three share a similar profile, at around 18 to 20 m of climbing per kilometre.

This moderate, steady climbing is typical of ridge paths: few steep gradients, but constant changes of rhythm that make it impossible to hold a fixed pace. It pays to run by effort rather than the watch and to keep something in reserve over the first half. The 10 km is within reach of a road runner used to an hour of effort, while the trail half marathon calls for some experience of soft ground, often muddy at this time of year: shoes with deep lugs make all the difference.