Runners in the Midlands have the chance to take on 50K in Shropshire this year with Run the Distance's trio of ultra events showcasing the county’s history and landscapes. The newly launched Historic Shropshire 50K will take place on 16 May promising a journey through thousands of years of local heritage.

Starting from Telford Town Park and finishing in Shrewsbury Quarry, the point to point route links landmarks from every era, including the Ironbridge Gorge, the Roman city of Wroxeter and Much Wenlock, known as the birthplace of the modern Olympic movement. Along the way runners will follow sections of the Silkin Way and pass Buildwas Abbey, Attingham Park, Shrewsbury Abbey and Shrewsbury Castle.

Those looking for a tougher test can line up for the Church Stretton 50K on Saturday 13 June. This challenging route runs from Shrewsbury Quarry to Rectory Fields in Church Stretton and is renowned for its dramatic hills and outstanding scenery in the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The reward at the finish is not just the sense of achievement but also the Church Stretton Beer Festival, which welcomes runners with a well earned drink and a lively atmosphere.

Later in the season, the Shrewsbury 50K offers runners the chance to tackle the route in reverse. Taking place on Saturday 19 September 2026, the race starts at Rectory Fields in Church Stretton and heads back to Shrewsbury Quarry. It begins with the demanding Burway climb before settling into what organisers describe as a relatively kind run for an ultra as the course trends back towards Shrewsbury.

Run the Distance is offering a special Shropshire Challenge Medal for athletes who complete any two of these events, giving committed ultra runners an added incentive! 

If you'd like to know more, visit the Run The Distance website.

Image: Run The Distance Facebook