Registration: Obscura - Bournemouth Sq Race Start: Upper Gardens Pagoda
Race starts
Highlights
Miles
Climb (m)
Cut off
July
Difficulty
Aid stations
WELCOME
Bournemouth Town Trail is an epic 8-mile run for all abilities that takes you from the heart of Bournemouth town centre round the parks, gardens and woodland trails that surround it. Starting right in the heart of Bournemouth with the Registration in Bournemouth Sq, the route immediately heads away from town through the Upper Gardens before opening out into wider green spaces of Talbot Heath, Pugs Hole, Meyrick Park. The hidden gems of Bournemouth.
Designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all abilities, this is not just a race, it’s an introduction to trail running in one of the most unique urban-to-nature settings in the UK.
Whilst only 8 miles its a challenging run over varied ground, and you should consider it a trail run.
We’re really happy to welcome both non-experianced and experienced runners wanting a relaxed, scenic and truly epic run through the green heart of the town.
From town...
Nestled among the sun-washed hills and vineyards of western Sicily, the Maratona di Salimi unfolds through a landscape shaped by generations of growers, harvests, and quiet tradition. Stone towns crown the ridgelines, vines trace the land’s natural contours, and the route carries you through a place where endurance and craft have always gone hand in hand.
...to trail
Route map
GPX file
Information
Important updates on the race will be posted here as well as emailed / SMS were possible.
- 1 litre water
- Gpx file (Please upload to your phone or watch)
- mobile phone
- foil blanket
- equivalent of 2 gels
- reusable cup
Our Life Bases are built for real trail runners, not just the “here’s a biscuit, good luck” vibe. Expect proper fuelling options all day, including vegan friendly and gluten free choices at every Life Base.
We keep ingredients clear and simple. Packaged items will be clearly labelled, and where we serve hot food, we will always have an option that works for common dietary needs. If you have a specific requirement, drop us a note before race day so we can plan properly.
We take this seriously. Nobody wants to be stress managing a basic human need on an ultra day.
There are toilets at the start and finish area, at the main Life Base, and at additional points along the route. In total there are multiple toilet opportunities across the course, including facilities at Race HQ.
If you need any products for a more comfortable, hassle free day, Race HQ is the place to sort yourself out before you start.
We are working on a simple race day shop offering key essentials only. Think gels, soft flasks, anti chafe, socks, tape, and “I forgot my” kit savers.
Details coming soon.
Want a friendly, high energy day out helping runners do something big? Join the Beat the Ferry crew.
Roles are varied and we will match you to what suits you. Life Base support, route support, check in and finish line, and general runner care. You do not need ultra experience, just a good attitude and a willingness to help.
You will get clear instructions, a proper team brief, and a front row seat to some seriously determined effort. If you want to volunteer, use the form and we will get back to you with roles and timings.
A full event manual is coming soon.
Beat the Ferry is organised by Eightmile Events Ltd. By entering, attending, or taking part you agree to our event terms and safety rules, including the following key points.
Entries and refunds
Entries are non refundable unless stated otherwise at time of purchase. If we offer transfers, deferrals, or credit, these are discretionary and may include an admin fee.
Event changes
We may change the date, timings, route, or format if needed for safety, access, or operational reasons.
Cancellation
If the event is cancelled due to factors outside our reasonable control, including severe weather, safety issues, or loss of access, we may reschedule rather than refund. Where refunds are offered, they may be reduced by unrecoverable costs already committed.
Safety and responsibility
Trail running is inherently risky. You must take responsibility for your own safety, follow instructions, carry required kit, and stay on the marked route. If you retire, you must notify the event team immediately.
Route and public access
The course uses public rights of way and shared spaces. You must be considerate to other path users and local communities.
Media
We may take photos and video during the event for promotion. If you do not want your image used, contact us in writing before race day.
Website and content
All site content, branding, and event materials belong to Eightmile Events Ltd and may not be reused without permission.
Beat the Ferry is designed to work as a complete experience on its own, but we’ve partnered with a small number of trusted local and specialist providers to offer optional extras that can help you prepare, travel lighter, and get more from the weekend.
These are all optional. No pressure. Just sensible additions that many runners find genuinely useful.
Trail Running Kit & Essentials
Through our partnership with Running Free, you can browse a curated selection of trail running products chosen specifically with this race in mind.
Footwear, packs, nutrition, and essentials suited to sand, coastal trails, and long days on your feet.
View race-specific trail running products
MindFuelBody – Trail Ready Plan
We’ve teamed up with MindFuelBody to offer a Trail Ready support plan focused on training consistency, recovery, and race-day resilience.
This isn’t about selling shortcuts. It’s about supporting runners physically and mentally in the build-up to a demanding event, whether this is your first ultra-distance challenge or one of many.
Explore the MindFuelBody Trail Ready Plan
National Trust Membership
Large parts of the route pass through National Trust land. If you’re not already a member, a National Trust membership can be a great addition.
Membership supports the landscapes we run through and gives you year-round access to coastal paths, countryside, and historic sites across the UK.
Results page will be posted prior to event day.
| Level | Label | What to Expect |
|---|
| 1 | Easy | Flat, firm paths. Parkland, promenade, compact trail. Road-shoe friendly. |
| 2 | Moderate | Mixed surfaces. Some trail, light undulation, generally stable underfoot. |
| 3 | Challenging | Sand, hills, uneven trail. Requires trail shoes and good endurance. |
| 4 | Hard | Steep climbs, technical sections, exposed terrain. Constant focus needed. |
| 5 | Extreme | Boggy, loose, steep, wild. Slow miles, high effort, full trail commitment. |
What to expect
A PROPER MARATHON. SHAPED BY PLACE.
From the first kilometres through open vineyards to the final approach beneath stone walls and fading light, the Maratona di Salimi is built as a proper, well organised race first and foremost. Expect clear timing, accurate results, thoughtful course management, and a finish that feels considered and complete. Every element is designed to respect both the runner and the landscape it passes through.
This is a marathon you can commit to fully, or experience more gently. Some will race it hard. Others will let the scenery, the culture, and the rhythm of the route shape their day. Well supported throughout, quietly distinctive, and rooted in its surroundings, it is an event designed to linger in memory long after the legs have recovered. The kind of race people speak about with a smile and hope to return to.
Medal
First Aid
Race Number
Timing
Aid Station
Marshals
Results
Bournemouth gives you something most places don’t. You can start in the town centre, drop straight into the gardens, and within minutes you’re running through tree-lined paths, open parkland, and quiet trails that feel miles away from everything.
It’s a mix of sea air, soft ground, and green space that just flows. One moment you’re near the beach, the next you’re under cover of trees, then out again into wide open parks. It never feels repetitive, and it never feels far from somewhere familiar.
Experience the Landscape
Running in Bournemouth has a really easy, welcoming feel to it. There are always people out, walkers, runners, dog owners, coffee in hand, just enjoying being outside.
It’s not about pace or pressure. It’s about getting out, moving through the space, and sharing it with others doing the same. Whether you’re new to running or just want something a bit more relaxed, it’s the kind of place where you naturally settle into your own rhythm.
Be Part of Something Real
Earn Something Memorable
Running in Bournemouth has a really easy, welcoming feel to it. There are always people out, walkers, runners, dog owners, coffee in hand, just enjoying being outside.
It’s not about pace or pressure. It’s about getting out, moving through the space, and sharing it with others doing the same. Whether you’re new to running or just want something a bit more relaxed, it’s the kind of place where you naturally settle into your own rhythm.
nd properly seen.
Why run in Bourenmouth
The Sika Trail car park is located within Wareham Forest, just west of Wareham.
Head towards Wareham via the A351
Follow signs for Wareham Forest
Look for brown Forestry England signs for forest car parks
Final event signage will guide you on the day
Working with
Local businesses and organisations who add genuine value to our events, runners, and open spaces we run in.
