WILD DEER ULTRA

Ultra Running Events in the North East

Ready to embrace the WILD?

Looking for your next big running challenge? Our ultra running events in the North East are designed for runners who want to go further, explore incredible landscapes and push themselves beyond the standard marathon distance.

Wild Deer Events organises ultra trail runs and ultramarathons across the North East of England, taking runners through some of the region's most spectacular countryside, woodland and coastal landscapes.

Whether you're an experienced ultrarunner looking for your next challenge or you're ready to step up from marathon distance, our ultra events offer a friendly, supportive and unforgettable way to discover just how far you can go.

From the Northumberland coastline to the beautiful landscapes of County Durham, there's plenty of WILD to explore.

Ready to take on your next challenge? Explore our upcoming ultra running events and find your next adventure.

What is an ultra marathon?

An ultramarathon, often simply called an ultra, is any running event that is longer than the standard marathon distance of 42.195km (26.2 miles).

Ultra events can range from just beyond marathon distance to 50km, 50 miles, 100km and beyond. Unlike many road races, ultra trail runs often take place away from roads, using trails, tracks, paths and other off-road terrain.

That means an ultra isn't just about running further. It's about experiencing the route, adapting to changing terrain, managing your energy and enjoying the journey.

For many runners, completing an ultra marathon is about much more than a finishing time. It's a personal challenge, an opportunity to explore somewhere new and a chance to become part of the fantastic ultra running community.

Our Ultra Running Events

At Wild Deer Events, we love going WILD and creating events that allow runners to experience some of the best landscapes the North East has to offer.

Our North East ultra events include challenging coastal routes, beautiful countryside and trail adventures through some of the region's most spectacular locations.

Distances vary between events, giving you the opportunity to choose a challenge that suits your experience and goals.

Looking for your next ultra?

Explore our upcoming ultra marathons and ultra trail runs and find an event that's right for you.

Why run an ultra?

Taking on an ultra marathon is a huge achievement, but you don't have to be an elite athlete to give it a go.

One of the best things about ultra running is the variety of people you'll meet along the way. Experienced ultrarunners, marathoners stepping up to a new distance and runners taking on their biggest challenge yet can all find their place on the start line.

Push your limits

An ultra gives you the opportunity to test your physical and mental endurance and discover what you're capable of.

Explore incredible places

Trail ultras take you away from the usual road-running routes and into some truly spectacular landscapes. From woodland trails to open countryside and the North East coast, the route itself becomes part of the adventure.

Become part of the community

Ultra running is known for its friendly and supportive community. You'll find plenty of encouragement from fellow runners, marshals and event teams, whether you're racing for a podium place or simply aiming to reach the finish line.

Take on something different

If you've already completed a marathon and are looking for your next challenge, an ultra is the perfect opportunity to step outside your comfort zone and go further.

How to train for an ultra marathon

Training for an ultra requires patience, consistency and plenty of preparation.

Even if you've already completed a marathon, running beyond 26.2 miles introduces new challenges. You'll need to prepare your body for spending longer on your feet while also learning how to manage your nutrition, hydration, pace and energy levels.

Build your distance gradually

Don't try to go from marathon distance to an ultra overnight.

Gradually increase your running distance and overall training volume, giving your body enough time to adapt and recover. Building your endurance over a number of months is far more effective than trying to cram in huge distances close to race day.

Set yourself smaller milestones along the way and use your training to build confidence as well as fitness.

Get plenty of long runs in

Long runs are an important part of ultra training. They give you the opportunity to spend more time on your feet and understand how your body responds as the miles increase.

They are also the perfect opportunity to practise your nutrition, hydration, clothing and equipment before race day.

Train on similar terrain

If you're entering an ultra trail run, don't do all your training on the road.

Try to include trails, hills and uneven terrain in your training where possible. This will help you become more comfortable with changing surfaces and elevation, particularly if your chosen event includes technical or hilly sections.

Practise your fuelling

Nutrition becomes increasingly important the longer you run.

Use your long training runs to work out what foods, gels and drinks work best for you. Never wait until race day to try something completely new.

Allow time to recover

More training isn't always better.

Rest and recovery are essential parts of preparing for an ultra. Make sure you allow enough time between harder sessions and listen to your body if you're feeling particularly tired or run down.

For many runners, preparing for an ultra will take several months. Exactly how long you need will depend on your current fitness, running experience and the distance you're planning to tackle.

Essential ultra running gear

Having the right equipment can make a huge difference when you're spending several hours on the trails.

Always check the specific kit requirements for your chosen event before race day, as mandatory equipment can vary depending on the distance, route and conditions.

Trail running shoes

Good footwear is one of the most important pieces of equipment for an ultra trail run.

Choose shoes that are comfortable, supportive and suitable for the terrain you'll be running on. Trail shoes with good grip can be particularly useful on uneven, muddy or slippery sections.

Most importantly, don't turn up on race day in a brand-new pair of shoes.

Wear your chosen shoes during your training, including some longer runs, so you know they're comfortable and suitable for the conditions.

Running or hydration vest

A running vest gives you somewhere to carry the essentials you'll need during a long-distance event.

Depending on the event, this could include water or fluids, nutrition, your phone, waterproofs, additional layers and mandatory kit.

Choose a vest that fits securely and comfortably, and practise running with it during training.

Waterproofs and layers

The weather can change quickly, particularly when you're spending several hours outdoors.

A lightweight waterproof jacket and suitable additional layers can help you stay comfortable when conditions change. Your clothing should be appropriate for the forecast, season and specific requirements of your event.

Headtorch

For longer ultras, a headtorch may be mandatory, particularly where runners could be out in low-light conditions.

Even if you expect to finish during daylight, always check the kit list for your event and make sure you understand what is required.

Food and nutrition

Pack enough nutrition for the distance and conditions, taking into account the aid stations available on your chosen route.

Energy gels, bars, sweets and other easily digestible foods can all form part of an ultra runner's fuelling strategy.

The key is to practise your nutrition during training.

Mobile phone

A fully charged mobile phone is an essential piece of kit for an ultra event.

Keep it somewhere secure and accessible throughout the event and check the specific requirements for your race before setting off.

Ultra running safety

An ultra marathon is a significant physical challenge, so preparation and sensible decision-making are important.

Before entering, make sure you're confident that you can safely complete the distance within the event's cut-off times.

Check the route, elevation, terrain and mandatory kit requirements before race day and make sure you're prepared for the conditions.

During the event, listen to your body, follow marshal instructions and make use of the aid stations along the route.

Remember, an ultra isn't just about running. Knowing when to walk, eat, drink or take a short break can all be part of a successful ultra strategy.

Why choose Wild Deer Events?

We are a North East-based events company and we love creating events that showcase the incredible places on our doorstep.

From the Northumberland coast to the countryside and woodland of County Durham, our events are designed to give runners more than just a race.

We want you to experience great routes, friendly support and an atmosphere that makes you want to come back for your next challenge.

Our small, passionate team has extensive experience organising trail running and endurance events across the UK. We carefully choose our locations and routes to create memorable challenges for runners of different abilities and experience levels.

Whether you're an experienced ultrarunner chasing your next big distance or you're taking your first step into the world of ultra running, we're here to help you go WILD.

Are ultra events suitable for beginners?

Absolutely.

You don't need to be an elite athlete to take on an ultra marathon. The key is choosing a distance that is appropriate for your experience and giving yourself enough time to prepare.

If you're new to ultra running, consider starting with a shorter ultra distance before progressing to longer events.

Many runners find that breaking the challenge into manageable sections makes the distance feel much more achievable. You might run for a while, walk the hills, refuel at an aid station and then continue towards the next checkpoint.

The goal isn't necessarily to run every step.

The goal is to keep moving and enjoy the adventure.

Ultra Running FAQ's

What is an ultra marathon?

An ultra marathon is any running event longer than the standard marathon distance of 42.195km (26.2 miles). Ultra distances can vary significantly, from 50km events to 50-mile, 100km and even longer races.

How far is an ultra marathon?

There is no single standard ultra marathon distance. An ultra is any distance beyond 42.195km. Common distances include 50km, 50 miles, 100km and 100 miles.

How long does it take to train for an ultra marathon?

The amount of training required depends on your current fitness, running experience and the distance you're planning to run. Many runners will spend several months preparing for an ultra, with longer distances generally requiring a longer preparation period.

Can a beginner run an ultra marathon?

Yes. Beginners can take on an ultra, provided they choose an appropriate distance and allow enough time to train. If you're new to ultra running, starting with a shorter distance can be a great way to build experience and confidence.

What should I take to an ultra marathon?

This depends on the specific event, but typical ultra running kit can include a fully charged mobile phone, hydration vest or backpack, fluids, nutrition, waterproof jacket, additional layers and a headtorch. Always check the mandatory kit list for your chosen event.

Do ultra marathons have aid stations?

Most organised ultra events have aid stations along the route, although the number and location will vary between events. Check the event information before race day so you know where you can refuel and refill your fluids.

Can you walk during an ultra marathon?

Yes. Walking is a completely normal part of ultra running. Many experienced ultrarunners use a combination of running and walking, particularly on hills or during the later stages of a long-distance event.

Are ultra trail runs harder than road marathons?

Ultra trail runs can be more demanding than road marathons because you're typically running for longer and may encounter hills, uneven surfaces and changing terrain. However, the challenge varies considerably depending on the distance, elevation and route.

Where can I run an ultra marathon in the North East?

Wild Deer Events organises ultra running events across the North East of England, including events in and around Northumberland and County Durham. Explore our upcoming events to find your next challenge.

Ready for your next ultra challenge?

There's a whole lot of WILD out there.

Whether you're looking for your first ultra marathon, your next ultra trail run or a serious new endurance challenge, Wild Deer Events has an adventure waiting for you.

Explore our upcoming ultra running events in the North East, choose your challenge and start training.

Go WILD. Go further.