Alnwick Castle Trail 10k, 15th March 2026
A trip up to Northumberland for Lynne Cornell:
“I had been swithering for a couple of days about still doing race this after a nasty stomach upset thing during the week, but decided I may as well go for it and I’m so glad I did. I’ve done other Alnwick Castle 10k trail races before but never a Wild Deer one, and the thought of actually starting with a view of the castle itself (unlike the other races) was too much of a temptation.
The other green goddess came with me for a trip out – she hadn’t signed up to the race, but it was lovely to have company plus nice to have my very own bag keeper!!! As I arrived at the number collection point/start area the sun was just starting to come out, so although it was cold I decided to man up after last week at the North Tyneside race and run in shorts this week – right decision. A bonus was being told I had ordered a t-shirt although I don’t remember doing this!
What a glorious setting for the start of the race – right beside the castle. The half marathon set off at 10:00 and the 10k runners then assembled for the 10:15 start. We were warned about mud, hills and cattle grids. Then we were off.
The first part of the race goes alongside the river and it was really beautiful. Under 2 magnificent stone bridges and view of a lovely waterfall. Then the first hill up to Farm Drive. The track was good for running – muddy but not too bad. Having got up to Farm Drive we ran down to Duchess’s Drive and along the river again. Beautiful. Next section is a loop through Hulne Park – very pretty. A couple of cattle grids to get over and quite a rough track – the grass along the edge was great for running on and the sheep didn’t seem bothered by the runners.
Then we arrived at ‘the hill’ we had been told about. A run up a grass hill to Hulne Priory which looked stunning – took my mind off the 300 feet climb. Past the priory was a water stop and then a lovely descent back down to the river and Lady’s Well Drive which we followed all the way to Filbert Haugh Bridge with a couple of cattle grids thrown in. Crossed the river and back onto Duchess’s Drive which would take us to the finish.
At around 5.5 miles on this section the half marathon runners turn right for another loop and the 10k runners head to the finish. By this time the sun had gone in and the threatened drizzle/light rain had started but it didn’t detract from some lovely views and a great course. A medal, buff and cereal bar plus Susan with my coat, bless her. Trip to Greggs for a refreshing cuppa plus a scone to top up carbs. A grand day out. This could definitely become a favourite. The views, the course and the marshals were fantastic. Thank you Wild Deer.”
Lynne finished in the top 20% and 2nd in her category, in a time of 54:27, well done!
