Shires and Spires: The Ultimate Running Challenge in Northamptonshire

Get ready for an unforgettable running experience at the Shires and Spires 2025, one of the UK's most scenic and unique multi-terrain races. Winner of the MARM Race of the Year 2023, this event offers five distances, each with its own distinct challenge, set in the breathtaking countryside of Northamptonshire.

Start and Finish in Historic Naseby

The race kicks off from Naseby Village Hall, a central location with easy access via the A14, M1, and M6 motorways. Naseby is famously known for the Battle of Naseby in 1645, setting the stage for a memorable event. The route will take you through gorgeous countryside, featuring both roads and trails, with historical landmarks like Holdenby House, Althorp House (home of the Spencer family and final resting place of Princess Diana), and Cottesbrooke House.

Race Distances

Whether you’re new to racing or an experienced runner looking for a challenge, there’s a distance for you:

• 10K (Road Race): A challenging 10K with an undulating course, elevation of +400 ft and -400 ft. You'll run down into the valley and face a tough uphill climb to the finish.
• Half Marathon (Multi-Terrain): Winner of the MARM 2023 Race of the Year, this 13.4-mile course is 11.7 miles of road and 1.7 miles of trails. Elevation: +897 ft / -897 ft.
• Three-Quarter Marathon (Multi-Terrain): A 19.1-mile course with 11.1 miles of road and 8 miles of trails, featuring an elevation of +1,334 ft / -1,334 ft.
• Marathon (Multi-Terrain): A 26.6-mile race with 12.9 miles of road and 13.7 miles of trails, with an elevation gain of +1,743 ft / -1,743 ft.
• Ultra Marathon (35 miles): For the ultimate endurance challenge, the Ultra covers 35 miles across roads and trails with varying terrain.

A Unique Race Every Year

The Shires and Spires event changes direction every year! On even years, the race runs in a clockwise direction, while on odd years it runs anti-clockwise. This means that no two years are the same, giving you a fresh perspective and a different experience every time.

Course and Navigation

• The 10K and Half Marathon courses are well-marked and marshalled.
• For the Three-Quarter Marathon and Marathon, the route is waymarked, but some sections require navigation. You'll be provided with a GPS tracker and an app with voice cues to help guide you along the course. You can even share your progress with friends and family via the app!

Aid Stations & Checkpoints

• 10K: One aid station at 5 km (anti-clockwise) or 7 km (clockwise) with water only.
• Half Marathon: Two aid stations at 4.5 miles and 10.2 miles (anti-clockwise) or 4.6 miles and 8.9 miles (clockwise).
• Three-Quarter Marathon: Three aid stations at 4.5 miles, 9.6 miles, and 14.4 miles (anti-clockwise) or 4.6 miles, 9.5 miles, and 14.5 miles (clockwise).
• Marathon: Four checkpoints providing water, snacks, and race support.

Course Records

• Female Records:
  • 10K (clockwise): 44:40 (Elizabeth Phipps, 2022)
  • Half Marathon (clockwise): 1:36:42 (Zoe Kemp, 2024)
  • Marathon (clockwise): 4:36:08 (Isabel Green, 2020)
• Male Records:
  • 10K (clockwise): 39:34 (Adam Clark, 2020)
  • Half Marathon (clockwise): 1:22:38 (Pete Northall, 2022)
  • Marathon (clockwise): 3:31:13 (Rory Pond, 2022)

Awards & Recognition

• Prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in both male and female categories in all races.
• All finishers will receive a medal and exclusive Go Beyond merchandise!

Race Day Information

• Start Time: The race starts at 8:30 am on Sunday, May 11th, 2025.
• Registration: Register on Saturday 10th May (2 pm – 4 pm) to avoid queues, or from 7 am on race day.
• Age Limit:
  • 10K: 16+
  • Half Marathon: 17+
  • Three-Quarter Marathon: 18+
  • Marathon: 18+
  • Ultra Marathon: 18+

Race Day Cut-offs

• 10K: No cut-off time.
• Half Marathon: 4 hours.
• Three-Quarter Marathon: 5 hours.
• Marathon: 9 hours with progressive cut-offs from Checkpoint 3.

Baggage Transfer

• For the looped event, most competitors store their bags in their cars. If not, we’ll store your bag at the finish so you have warm, dry clothes waiting for you.

Transport & Accommodation

• Parking: Free parking is available at the village hall complex. Please allow time for parking and registration.
• Accommodation: If you need somewhere to stay, Northampton offers a variety of Airbnb options and hotels for all budgets.

Mandatory Kit for Marathon & Ultra Marathon

• For Marathon and Ultra Marathon participants, you must carry the following items:
  • Fully charged mobile phone (with emergency race director and assistant race director numbers)
  • Water bottle/bladder (minimum 1 litre)
  • Appropriate running gear (trail shoes for muddy conditions, weather-appropriate clothing)

Entry Fees

• 10K: £24
• Half Marathon: £35
• Three-Quarter Marathon: £40
• Marathon: £45
• Ultra Marathon: £60
• Entries on the day (if available): £30/£40/£45/£50/£65 (cash only)

Training Support

Need help with your training? Try the Runna App for expert training plans to get you race-ready!

Ready to Race?

Sign up for the Shires and Spires 2025 today! Whether you're running your first 10K or conquering the Ultra Marathon, this event offers a rewarding challenge with stunning views, a supportive atmosphere, and a sense of community that will keep you coming back year after year.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this iconic race—secure your spot now!

Location

Directions

Parking: Free parking is available at the village hall complex. Please allow time for parking and registration.
Accommodation: If you need somewhere to stay, Northampton offers a variety of Airbnb options and hotels for all budgets.