Welcome to the Heights Ultra Trail (HUTFEST26), one of Yorkshire’s most unique trail running festivals set in the stunning landscapes of the Colne Valley, Huddersfield.

At The Heights Federation, our mantra is simple:
“Working together to reach new heights.”

Now in our 6th year, HUTFEST has become a standout UK trail running event, designed to inspire runners of all abilities to explore the hidden beauty of West Yorkshire’s moorlands, reservoirs, and trails. Often overlooked compared to the UK’s National Parks, this region offers truly breathtaking ultra trail running terrain — and we’re proud to showcase it.

Whether you're taking on your first trail race or returning for your 6th consecutive HUT challenge, we promise an unforgettable experience that will test both body and mind.

What is HUTFEST?

HUTFEST is a charity trail running festival in Huddersfield, combining:

• Ultra trail races (50 Mile & 50KM)
• Trail running challenges (27KM & 10KM)
• Family-friendly atmosphere
• Community-focused event supporting local rural primary schools

While we’ve scaled back entertainment slightly this year, there will still be:

• Activities for families and children
• A welcoming event village atmosphere
• Food, support, and post-race celebrations

Bring your friends and family and make a full day of it!

Event Details

Event: Heights Ultra Trail HUTFEST26
Date: Saturday 19th September 2026
Location: Broad Oak Cricket Club

Postcode: HD7 5TE
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HUTFEST IS MORE THAN JUST A SERIES OF RACES.

Aye up, this thing’s getting proper big now. It’s a reet old job to organise and costs a pretty penny to boot. Mind you, we’re all volunteers doing it for love, not money, and we bust our guts to put on a grand race that runners seem to reet enjoy. All we ask is that you bear with us and show a bit of patience, as everyone on the HUT Team and the folk helping out on the day are giving up their own time for nowt, except maybe a Tee, a free entry or a HUT hoodie!

​Part of what we’re about is raising a bit of brass for the local schools, charities, and good causes, as well as keeping this community event going year after year. We pride ourselves on the fact that our entry fees are cheap as chips for what you get, and every single penny left over goes straight to folk who need it.

​Now, we all know we wouldn’t be out enjoying the fells and moors if it weren’t for the selfless volunteers who are out there 24/7 in’t Mountain Rescue. We can train and race happy in the knowledge that they’ve got our backs if things go pear-shaped. Because of that, HUTFEST will always do its bit to raise funds for our local rescue teams. To say a proper ta very much, we offer 15 free spots for active Search & Rescue members. If that’s you, drop us a line at info.heightsultratrail.co.uk with your details to see if there's any left.

​At the end of the day, this is a charity trail race for the community, helping out our local rural primary schools. By turning up, you’re doing your bit and making a real difference.

​So ta muchly for being part of something bigger. 

Getting to HUTFEST

By Car

• Main parking available at the event centre
• Please car share where possible

By Train

• Nearest station: Slaithwaite (HD7 5EB)
• 10-minute connection to bus routes or 1.8-mile walk

By Bus

• From Huddersfield Bus Station:
  • 181 or 183 routes stop near the venue

Registration Times

Please arrive early — registration closes promptly.

• 50 Mile: 06:15 – 06:45
• 50KM:   06:30 – 07:45
• 27KM:   07:30 – 08:45
• 10KM:   09:15 – 10:45

Late arrival may result in not being able to start.

Race Distances

Choose your challenge:

• 50 Mile Ultra Trail
• 50KM Ultra Trail
• 27KM Trail Run
• 10KM Trail Run

Cut-Offs

Whilst we will enforce cut-offs to ensure the safety of both runners and volunteers, and that everyone returns to HQ before midnight to avoid us all turning back in’t pumpkins.  We are not looking to be elitist, are very inclusive and want everyone to have their moment in crossing our finish line. These is no time limit for either or 27KM or our Blackmoorfoot 10k events.

These are the are 4 cut-offs you need to be aware of;

CP1 Holme Village – 80KM by 10.30 – 50KM by 11.30am

CP2 Wessenden Head – 80KM by 2.30pm & 50KM by 3.00pm

CP3 Clough Head J&I School (80KM only) Leave by 7.45pm

Manchester Road Crossing (80KM only) by 10.00pm

All routes showcase Yorkshire moorland, reservoirs, and Pennine trails, delivering a true UK ultra trail running experience.

All events are licensed by the TRA under UKA rules

Mandatory Kit (Ultra Events)

For 50 Mile & 50KM runners, mandatory kit includes:

• Waterproof jacket (taped seams)
• Waterproof trousers
• Long sleeve top
• Hat & gloves
• Water container / mug (cupless event)
• Compass & whistle
• Torch (50 Mile only)
• Bivy bag (foil blankets not sufficient)
• Mobile phone (emergency use only – no GPS navigation)
• Money

Kit checks will take place at start and finish.
Failure to carry kit = disqualification.

Routes & Navigation

• Routes are fully waymarked with HUT signage, arrows, and flags
• Open moorland sections require awareness and basic navigation skills
• Ultra entries include a waterproof route map

Key note:

• Signage begins ~3.5KM for longer routes
• Final 4KM heavily marked back to finish

Checkpoints & Feed Stations

We pride ourselves on some of the best-stocked ultra feed stations in the UK.

Expect:

• Sandwiches, fruit, cakes, snacks
• Hot food (soup, rice, etc.)
• Hot & cold drinks
• Energy options and treats

Locations include:

• Holme Village
• Wessenden Head
• Clough Head

Additional water stations available across the course.

Sustainability & Trail Respect

We are committed to protecting the environment:

• No littering — carry waste to checkpoints
• Respect landowners and local communities
• Help us keep these trails open for future events

Event Photography

Professional race photographers will be on course and at the finish.

• Search photos by face or bib number
• Optional purchase available
• Capture your HUT finish line moment!

A Charity Running Event

HUT Fest is more than a race.

This is a charity trail running event supporting local rural primary schools, and your participation helps make a real difference.

Thank you for being part of something bigger.

Final Words

We hope this guide helps you prepare for race day and inspires you to:

• Run your best race
• Explore more trails
• Take on your next challenge

Whether you're chasing a PB or soaking in the views…

Have an incredible HUT Fest 2026.

We can’t wait to welcome you.

Andrew Swales & Neil Hill
HUT Race Directors