Run Balmoral 6 Mile Trail Race

Price £29 (£27 for Scottish Athletics Members)
10:00 on Sunday 5 April 2026

With a mix of tarmac, track and turf, the Run Balmoral 6 Mile Trail Race is a true all-terrain event! Open to anyone over the age of 15, the race can be approached as an introduction to trail running for beginners or as challenging sprint for the more experienced. Each lap runs alongside the River Dee to start before heading uphill – and then down again for a fast mile back to the start.

The Run Balmoral 6 Mile Trail Race is currently available for sponsorship. For more information, please contact info@runbalmoral.com

We are absolutely delighted to confirm that the new 6 Mile Trail Race will return to Run Balmoral 2026.

The Run Balmoral 6 Mile Trail Race was introduced in 2025 and proved a fantastic addition to the programme. It offers runners the chance to experience a stunning new route in the spectacular surroundings of the Balmoral Estate, with the famous Castle providing an excellent backdrop.

The 6 Mile Trail Race will once again form part of the John Clark Devil of Deeside Challenge, in which competitors tackle the Harbour Energy 5k and the Stena Drilling 10k on the Saturday, followed by the Run Balmoral 6 Mile Trail Race and the James & George Collie 15 Mile Trail Race on the Sunday. The winners are those with the best cumulative times from the four races.

All races are held on traffic-free roads and trails, offering amazing views of the Deeside countryside and the Cairngorm mountains. Competitors in each run will receive a special medal featuring a local landmark.

The 2026 event takes place over the weekend of 4-5 April.

Race Route

Entry Includes

Finisher's medal
Electronic timing
Downloadable finisher's certificate
Free parking

FAQ

How old must I be to compete?

All entrants must be 15 years of age or over on the day of the race

When do entries close?

Entries will close on the 31st of March (the same year as the event) or sooner if the race sells out.

What is included in the entry fee?

Sustainable wooden medal featuring the wildlife of the Balmoral Estate
Electronic timing
Downloadable finisher’s certificate
Free parking

Can I make changes to my entry?

You can edit your entry via the ‘My Entry’ tab at the top of the website home page. You can edit all your registration details but you are not able to swap races.

Is it possible to enter on race weekend?

If the race has not sold out there may be some entries available on the day BUT check before you make a journey at least 48hrs prior to the race day.

How do I know that my online entry worked?

You will have been sent a confirmation e-mail. Please check your spam folder if this does not appear in your inbox with a few hours.

Is it possible to transfer my place to another race?

No, transfers are not possible.

I don’t want to enter online; can I pay for my entry over the phone or by cheque?

You can enter by telephone by calling 01339742555 with your debit/ credit card details.

Do you offer elite entries?

No. We do not offer elite places in the 6 mile trail race.

When will I receive my race number etc?

You should receive your race pack approximately 1-2 weeks prior to the race date. The pack will contain your race number which has your timing chip attached, an instruction sheet and 4 safety pins.

I live overseas and will already be in the UK / Scotland when you send out 6M race packs?

All overseas race packs will be available for collection at the information tent on the day of the race.

When does registration take place?

You do not need to register on the day for the 6M, you will have everything you need in your race pack.

How do I get to the 6M Start?

Please allow at least 15 minutes to walk from the far car parks to the start line. You should arrive as early as possible and at least one hour prior to the start of your race.

What's the 6M course like?

Each lap features a total of 345ft (105m) of ascent.

How many drink stations are there on the 6M route?

There are no water stops on the 6M route.

Are there distance markers on the course?

Yes at every mile.

Are there toilets on the course?

No. There are plenty of toilets at the start and finish of the 6M.

Are there showers and changing facilities?

There are Male and Female changing tents but no showers.

Is massage available?

Yes massage will be available adjacent to the information tent.

Can I run wearing headphones?

No
Please note that wearing headphones is NOT permitted in any of the races under Scottish and UK Athletics rules.
We DO allow the use of headphones that use bone conductor technology, which allow the wearer to be aware of their surroundings. However, this is at your own risk and if an incident occurs as a result of, or made worse by, you wearing these headphones you may be held liable.

Can I be supported by bike along the route?

No, this is not safe for other runners.

Are buggies and pushchairs allowed in the 6M?

No, this is not safe for other runners.

Can I run in fancy dress?

Yes, as long as your fancy dress does not impede the process of or cause danger to other runners. The organisers decision is final on this and if you are in any doubt you should consult the organisers in advance. info@runbalmoral.com

Where can I park?

FREE field parking will be well signed on the day. The earlier you arrive the closer to the start line you will be! You should arrive no later than an hour prior to your race start time and earlier is better!
There is at least a 20 minute walk to the start line from the car parks.

Can I get a photograph of myself running the race?

Yes! Please see the photos section of the web site for details of how to purchase your images form the day via our partners Marathon Photography.

Are dogs allowed?

On the event field on a lead, yes. Taking part in any race, no.

What else is there to do on the Balmoral Estate on race weekend?

All runners and their guests receive free access to Balmoral’s newly refurbished restaurant, Mews Gift Shop, stunning Estate grounds and woodland walks on the Saturday, plus the Castle Ballroom Exhibition on the Sunday, making Run Balmoral a perfect day out for everyone.