No More Room In The Coop At Loftus!
All 400 places have been snapped up for the Loftus Poultry Run on 20 December, with runners preparing for festive fancy dress, countryside trails and some unusual Christmas prizes...
This relates to: Loftus Poultry Run
The coop is full! All 400 places for the Loftus Poultry Run have been snapped up, leaving hopeful participants joining a waiting list for one of the North East's most entertaining Christmas running traditions.
The 2026 event takes place on Sunday 20 December, with Loftus and Whitby Athletic Club once again bringing its distinctive mixture of countryside running, festive costumes and generous Christmas prizes to the North Yorkshire town. Now in its fifth decade, the race has become a firm favourite with runners who enjoy a little seasonal fun alongside their competitive efforts.
The course covers approximately seven miles across country lanes, bridleways, footpaths and muddy fields. The first half is generally uphill, demanding some patience and careful pacing, before runners are rewarded with an exhilarating descent towards the finish. Depending on the weather, conditions can range from relatively forgiving to distinctly challenging, with trail shoes a sensible choice.
But this is a race where the atmosphere matters just as much as the finishing times. A brass band provides the soundtrack, fancy dress is positively encouraged and the prize table has a distinctly festive flavour. Age category winners can look forward to Christmas fare, including the poultry that gives the event its name, while spot prizes ensure the celebrations aren't restricted to the fastest runners.
There's even recognition for those bringing up the rear, with consolation prizes traditionally awarded to the final finishers. Every participant who completes the course receives a commemorative T-shirt, providing a lasting reminder of their December adventure.
The race starts at 11am, with registration at Loftus Leisure Centre from 9:30am. All numbers are collected on the day, and there will be no entries available at the start.
With the 400 place capacity already reached, the only remaining opportunity for hopeful runners is the waiting list.
Image courtesy runABC Creative.
