TOP TIP: If you are staying in Stroud ahead of this race, book a taxi at earliest opportunity. The organisers say at least 2 weeks in advance, my taxi driver said taxis were booked as early as 4 months in advance! do not expect to get one on race day if not booked :)

My race review began months before race day, I’d double booked myself for Race to the King and needed to transfer my booking to another race. Race to the Tower was next on the list and the transfer was painless (except a small admin fee). A tick for organisation and administration.

Taking place in the stunning Cotswolds Race to the Tower is 52.4 trail miles of rolling (with occasional evil climbs) trail making up approx 7500ft ascent. Mile markers remind you how far you’ve come and there are 152 gates and stiles on the route, how do I know? They are all numbered. fun fact!  I ran this double marathon after a relatively dry spell (aside from the rain the day before) so the surface was good. A few muddy puddles and one super sticky corn field but generally firm under foot. I suspect it could be a way different story if the weather took a turn for the worse in the weeks leading up to the event. Whilst not mountainous the hills took their toll on my legs. There is a particularly cheeky climb up from Broadway town to the finish at Broadway Tower.

With various distance options available (single marathon, 2 marathons 2 days, double continuous marathon, walking, running) there is something for everyone. The route is well sign posted and generally well supported making it a good choice for someone embarking on their first trail marathon or ultra. The point to point nature of the course might not appeal to some due to logistics but the organisers give you shuttle bus options if needed.

The only negative point I could probably raise is the somewhat limited aid stations. Whilst they were well stocked the variety was a little lacking for such a big event. Savoury food was thin on the ground and there was an abundance of sweet foods (chewy sweets, bars etc). This is by no means a cheap event so to skimp on the savoury snacks was not ideal. I thought I read that hot food was meant to be available but I didn’t see any.

The Cotswolds are truly stunning. The views, even on an overcast day amazing. Britain has some fantastic scenery and this race is well worth a look.

overall, a fab route, well organsaed, free race photos, nice bling, a can of beer at the finish, this event is well worth a look.