Petts Wood 10K returns on Sunday 11 October 2026, taking runners from the streets of south east London into National Trust woodland on a race that has built a loyal following.

Starting and finishing at Willett Recreation Ground in Petts Wood, the 10K combines paved roads with off road trails through the surrounding woods. The terrain is undulating, with several testing climbs making this a rather different challenge from a flat city road race.

The woodland sections provide much of its character. Away from the busier start and finish, runners are surrounded by trees and trails before returning to the road sections where local support adds to the atmosphere.

Petts Wood Runners stages the event with a large team of volunteers and marshals, something that has regularly attracted praise from previous participants. Entertainment and refreshments at Willett Recreation Ground add to the community feel around the start and finish.

There is also a charitable purpose behind race day. The event is run on a non profit basis and raises money for good causes, with St Christopher's Hospice and the National Trust named as charity partners for 2026.

Finishers receive a medal and snacks after completing the course, while bag drop facilities are available at Willett Recreation Ground.

Petts Wood may not be the obvious choice for runners seeking the flattest possible 10K. For those who prefer woodland trails, hills and a race with strong local roots, that is rather the point.

Entries are available now via the runABC race hub here.

Image courtesy Petts Wood Runners on Facebook.