Most races have a start line and a finish line. Sidlaw Ultra has two castles, 69 kilometres of Scottish countryside and rather a lot of climbing between them. On Saturday 28 November, runners will set off from Glamis Castle in Angus with Scone Palace near Perth as their ultimate destination.

Now in its fourth year, the event from Wee Run Events has established itself as a distinctive challenge on Scotland's winter ultrarunning calendar. The point to point course crosses the Sidlaw Hills, taking runners through a mixture of forest paths, farm tracks, grassy trails and exposed hilltops. It's a proper adventure, with the terrain demanding considerably more attention than the distance alone might suggest.

The route has some particularly memorable features. Runners pass through the hills around Dunsinane before continuing towards Kinnoull Hill on the approach to Perth. There are sections of uneven ground, potentially wet trails and exposed high ground where November weather could add another dimension to the challenge. An optional 7:30am start gives those wanting additional time a head start before the main field departs at 8am.

Wee Run Events has also made Sidlaw Ultra the first race in its Castle Series, with another event planned for 2027. It's an intriguing development for an organiser already known for creating unusual Scottish running challenges.

And there's a reward beyond the satisfaction of reaching Scone Palace. Every finisher receives a medal and a hot meal, with Oaklies Food Truck returning to provide some welcome post race nourishment.

Entries remain open for the 2026 event. For runners looking to finish their autumn with something memorable, two castles and 69 kilometres of the Sidlaws should provide quite enough adventure for one Saturday.

You can still enter this year's race via the runABC race hub.

Image courtesy Sidlaw Ultra.