FAQs

Signing Up

  • How much is it to enter?

Entry prices can be found on our entry page here.

Early bird discounts are available as advertised.

NB: Affiliated is to be a member of a registered running or triathlon club. Please note all stated fees include VAT and processing fee.

 

  • Is there a closing date for entry?

Midnight 30th September 2026, or when sold out.

 

  • Can I enter on the day?

Unfortunately we do not accept any entries on the day.

 

  • Which event should I do?

It depends on your experience and current levels of fitness. Choose an event that will challenge you but is ultimately achievable. You can choose from Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K or Gravel Duathlon.

 

  • Can my kids enter?

Children over 15 on the day of the event can enter the 10K, or over 17 can enter the Half Marathon.

There are junior events available on Sunday 4th October for children aged 6-15.

 

  • Is there an upper age limit?

No. All that we ask is that any participant unsure of their physical ability to take part should seek medical advice from a general practitioner prior to the event.

 

  • I haven’t run in a proper race before. Can I still enter?

Absolutely! You should ensure you are are physically able to complete the event, it is advisable to try a few runs close to the distance you are looking to complete before the event, it’s not a race against the clock but a fun and safe way for you to find out how enjoyable running is and to hopefully start you running regularly.

Getting to the Event

  • Is there somewhere that I can park my car?

Yes, there are dedicated car parks located near the Start at Kielder Waterside (10K, Duathlon, Marathon and Juniors), and the Dam for the Half Marathon.

Please follow the signs and marshal instructions to the correct car park where you will then be able to get a shuttle bus to the start.

 

To help keep Kielder as beautiful as it is we encourage to car share where possible.

 

PLEASE ALLOW AT LEAST 90 MINUTES FROM ARRIVING AT THE CAR PARK TO GET TO THE START AREA.

 

  • I don’t drive – can I get to the venue by public transport?

There is very limited public transport in the area. We run a dedicated return bus service from Newcastle Central station available at a charge of £12 per person. Both runners and spectators can use this service. You can book a ticket for the bus during registration. These tickets can either be booked for a Saturday return (for 10K and Duathlon participants) or Sunday return (for Marathon and HM participants). 

 

  • How do I get to the start area from the car park?

There is a FREE shuttle bus service for runners to and from the car parks, your race number acts as your ticket. If you are collecting your race number on the day please bring proof of your registration confirmation. Spectators are charged at £3 per person for the day if purchased in advance, or £5 on the day. Spectator shuttles run throughout the day to various vantage points on the route.

Pre-book spectator tickets: https://eventsofthenorth.com/etn/altra-kielder-marathon-spectator-bus-ticket/

 

  • Can dogs get on the shuttle buses?

Yes, well-behaved dogs are allowed on the buses, provided they are on a lead.

 

  • Will you send me information in advance?

Once you have entered we will send you by post your race number, timing chip & race information pack. Digital race guides will be available for download on the website prior to the event.

 

  • What do I do if I lose my runner number?

If you realise prior to the event, let us know via email and we can arrange for another number to be sent to you in advance for a small admin fee.

 

If you can’t find your number on the day, the event information cabin at the venue will check your entry and issue you an alternative number.

Fundraising

  • Do I have to collect sponsorship? Is there a minimum I must collect?

If you would like to run for event charity partner our official partner charity will be announced soon. Please email us at info@eventsofthenorth.com and we will send your details to them and you’ll be contacted with fundraising advice, but no minimum raise will be requested.

 

  • Where does my sponsorship and entry fee money go?

All monies raised for your chosen charity should be sent direct to that charity.
Your entry fee contributes to the running of the event and pays for all the site infrastructure, equipment, medals, and goody bags.

 

  • Can I take part in the event but donate my sponsorship to an alternative charity?

Yes, it is completely up to you if you choose to run for a charity close to your heart. We have a wide range of charities and causes represented at our events, and it's incredible to see individuals taking on a personal challenge for an important cause.

 

Many charities have teams of runners at the event, so we suggest getting in touch with your chosen charity to see if they have a team already, or getting your loved ones involved and creating your own team to raise money for a charity of your choice!

On the day

  • If I have been sent my race number, do I need to register on the day?

No. Assemble at the start 20 minutes before your race start time, wearing your race number (incorporates your timing chip) and join the crowds by the start line.

 

  • What if I forget my race number?

Please go to the RACE INFORMATION CABIN at the Start of your event. One of the team will check your entry and issue you with an alternative race number.

Race Information at Kielder Waterside (10K, Duathlon, Marathon Juniors)

Opening times:

  • Saturday: 10:45am
  • Sunday: 7:45am

Location: In the tipis

 

Race Information at The Dam (HM start)

  • Sunday: 7:45am

Location: Marquee next to HM start

 

  • What time does the race start?

Subject to change - please keep an eye on the website and event emails in the run up to event day.

RaceStart time
Gravel Duathlon13:00
10K13:05
RaceStart time
Marathon10:15
Half Marathon10:15
Junior10:45
  • Roughly how long will it take to complete the course?

We would expect the majority of runners to complete the:
10k: 30 minutes – 1 hour 40 minutes 

Duathlon: 2 hours – 4 hours 

Marathon: 2 hours 30 minutes – 6 ½ hours 

Half Marathon: 70 minutes – 3½ hours Remember – it’s not a race…. you can take your time.

 

  • Does the course go on any public roads with traffic?

No the course is almost entirely off-road on the Lakeside Way around Kielder Reservoir. There are no public roads on the course.

 

  • How will I know which way to go?

There will be course signage and marshals at all key junctions to ensure you don’t get lost.

 

  • Will there be any other activities available?

Yes there will be a range of activities available including sports massage, refreshments and music at the start and finish!

 

  • Will there be any refreshments?

Water stations will be available throughout the route for all runners and each runner will be provided with water on completion of the course.
Isotonic energy drinks will be available at regular intervals from 10km in the Marathon, Half Marathon and Duathlon.

 

  • I’m injured and can’t run what should I do?

Oh no and after all that hard work too! We are sorry you are missing out on the event.
Please contact info@eventsofthenorth.com to inform the event team of your withdrawal.

 

DO NOT PASS YOUR RACE NUMBER on to anyone else, it potentially puts them at a medical risk, as we have no medical information or emergency contact details for them.

We do accept medical deferrals if provided with evidence of your injury from a GP or Physio. The deadline for medical deferrals is 4 weeks prior to the event.

 

  • What happens if it rains?

Some of the most successful events have happened in the rain. Our events will only be cancelled if there are severe weather conditions. Make sure you are suitably dressed for the event. If it is drizzling or cold in the morning bring a bin bag to put over your head it will keep you warmer and dry before you set off.

 

  • How difficult will the course be?

Take a look at the event information on the website which has a map of the route and a course description including elevation profile. As the course is off-road it is challenging so expect some steep inclines and undulation. The trial is very well maintained so either trail shoes or normal trainers are suitable.

 

  • Do I have to run the course?

We advise participants to run/jog or combine that with fast walking because of the length of time it would take to walk the course. There is a 7 hour time limit for the Marathon, and 5 hours for the Gravel Duathlon. If you do not make the cut-offs on the course, the event team may ask you to withdraw.

 

  • What facilities will be available?

Toilets will be provided at the start/finish and at each water station on the route. Refreshments will also be available in the start/finish area for runners and spectators at a cost. Secure bag drop marquee will also be available for all runners. First aid and sports massage will be available at the start/finish. Unfortunately we are unable to provide showers or changing facilities.

 

  • When will I get my running time?

Your race will be chip timed. The timing chip will give you an accurate start and finish time, so there’s no rush to be first over the start line when the gun goes!

 

  • What is included in my race pack?

You will receive the following items:

  • Event Information
  • Timing chip (attached to number)
  • Race number
  • Any pre-ordered merch (t-shirts, buffs)

 

  • Why haven’t I received my entry pack?

Race information packs are being sent in batches via the first class post from 4 weeks before the event. 

 

Please pay attention to emails detailing the postal deadline for entries, all entries after this date will need to collect their race number on the event weekend.


If you entered before the postal deadline and you have not received your information pack by Thursday 1st October please email info@eventsofthenorth.com

 

  • I need to collect my race number on the day where do I collect it from?

You must collect your race number from the Race Information Cabin at least 45 minutes before the start of the race. This is Kielder Waterside for the 10K, Duathlon, Marathon and Juniors, and The Dam for Half Marathon participants.

 

  • Can someone take my place?

No. For health and safety reasons we need to ensure that the event organiser has all the details of the runners on the day in case of a medical incident. This is also against UK Athletics rules.

General

  • How do I check my entry?

    You should receive a confirmation email from info@eventsofthenorth.com confirming your entry. Please check your spam inbox for the email if you are unable to find it.

    Make sure you have this confirmation of your place before we begin sending race packs out, as we cannot guarantee to have a place available for you if for any reason your entry has not been completed.

 

  • Can I make changes to my entry?

    Yes, up to six weeks before the event, you can change any incorrect addresses and add any merchandise, like event t-shirts, to your entry so they will be sent to you via post before the event.

    PLEASE CHECK YOUR CORRECT ADDRESS is linked to your entry, this is where we will be sending your race pack and if this is incorrect, we may not be able to post your number.

 

  • Can I change races at the same event?

    If your training takes an unexpected turn - for better or worse - you might want to switch to another race at the same event. You can do this up to six weeks before race day by emailing us at info@eventsofthenorth.com.

    - Upgrades (e.g. HM  to Marathon): You'll need to pay a transfer fee plus the difference in entry fees.

    - Downgrades (e.g. Marathon to HM): We'll change your entry, but we cannot offer a refund for the difference in price.

 

  • How can I get in touch with someone if I have further questions?

You can email your questions to info@eventsofthenorth.com

 

  • QCan I volunteer at the event?

Yes. We’re looking for a large team of volunteers to help us with the delivery of the event. Please register you interest by e-mailing volunteers@eventsofthenorth.com

 

  • Why is there an entry fee?

The entry fee covers all the unavoidable administrative and organisational costs that make sure the Kielder Marathon events are safe and enjoyable.

 

  • I can’t run the race now can I have a refund?

Your entry fee is invested in the cost of staging the event with the fees covering contractors, suppliers and administration costs. The entry fee is non-transferable and non-refundable, however there could be the possibility of deferring your entry to the following year on production of an official letter from your doctor or physio.

 

The deadline for medical deferrals is 4 weeks prior to the race date. You can download a copy of the event terms and conditions which are available during registration here.