Race Page
04/10/2026

Penshaw Half Marathon - Pre Race Information

Race Information

Please read the pre-race information carefully. If you have any questions about the race, then please email info@trailoutlaws.com.

2026 is the 12th year of the Penshaw Half Marathon. Penshaw was the first event ever hosted by Trail Outlaws and we hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

Before the Race

Consider taking out personal insurance against accident or injury whilst participating in sporting activities. UKA and TRA membership include insurance.

Please bring appropriate footwear for the race conditions.

Race Numbers

Please note that race numbers will be given out at race registration on the day of the race. The foam tag on the back of the bib is for the race timing. So please do not remove this tag.

This number must be pinned to the front of your top and visible throughout the event.

Race Parking

Event parking will be at Herrington Country Park, where there will be plenty of on-site parking for all.

Toilets

We have hired portaloo toilets that will be situated in the car park area. There are toilets available next to the main car park.

Road Crossings

There are several minor road crossings. Caution runners and caution road signs will be visible. Event marshals will advise of approaching vehicles but it is the runner's responsibility to cross safely.

Race Finish

Race Finish: 13:30

The race finishes at the top of Penshaw Monument.

On finishing the race, you will be presented with your race medal. There will also be water and sweets available.

Presentation

Winner's presentations and age category presentations will take place on the Monument (weather permitting) at approximately 12:00.

This will be moved to the Rangers Hut in inclement weather conditions.

Virtual Option

If you can no longer make the race, you are still able to claim your t-shirt and medal by emailing proof of running a half marathon distance before the end of November.

Send your email to info@trailoutlaws.com. We will then post your t-shirt and medal out for you.

Race Registration

All runners must register before the race starts. Pre ordered T-shirts will be given out at registration.

Registration takes place at:

Herrington Country Park,

Rangers Hut,

Tyne and Wear,

DH4 7NJ

Herrington Park Map

Race registration opens at 08:00 and closes at 09:40.

All runners will then need to make their way to the bottom of Penshaw Monument, a short 2 minute walk from registration, for 09:50 for the race briefing.

HALF MARATHON - 04th October 2026

  • 09:50 Briefing
  • 10:00 Start
  • 12:00 Awards
  • 13:30 Finish

Medals will be given out upon completion of course.

Race Start

Race Start: 10:00

The race starts at the foot of Penshaw Hill – a 4-minute walk from the registration area.

Checkpoints

There are two checkpoint locations on the route. One checkpoint will be passed twice during the event.

  • Cox Green checkpoint: located on the north side of the river and passed at approximately 2.5 miles and 7 miles.
  • Offerton Steps checkpoint: located at approximately 9 miles, at the top of Offerton Steps before the climb to Offerton Village.
  • Both checkpoints will provide water and sweets.
  • The finish will have water and jelly sweets.

Polite Reminder

No headphones to be used or dogs to run during the event. This is in line with our insurance and must be adhered to.

Please be courteous to other users of the paths.

Trail Outlaws Trading Post

The Trail Outlaws Trading Post will be located at race registration should you wish to purchase our fabulous and highly sought after merchandise, including: Trail Outlaws Hoodies, vests, long sleeve tops, buffs, collapsible cups and many other items.

  • Trail Outlaws Hoodies £35
  • Trail Outlaws Vests £12.50 (Women's and men's fit)
  • Trail Outlaws Long Sleeve Tops £20.00
  • Trail Outlaws Enamel Cup £10

Race Route

The route will be fully marshalled, signed and flagged.

The National Trust have asked that we stick to using the steps and not the paths either side on the descent from the monument.

We always spend a lot of time diligently marking our course. Occasionally, these markings are removed by dog walkers and locals so please make yourself familiar with the online route map.

Special Mentions:

The four areas that have caused runners to miss route markings and go off trail are:

  1. Turning down to River after wildfowl park. After you have run through the wildfowl car park and past the wildfowl park itself, you will run approx. 300yds up the main path/trail. Before the path bears left, there is a turning down to the river which is the official race route. There should be a marshal and signs pointing the way. But please keep your eyes peeled.
  2. The Bottom of Offerton Steps. Ensure when running along the south riverside (approx. 2.5 / 9 miles) when the A19 flyover comes into view, you take the right turning up the steps before the White House.
  3. The Top of the Offerton Steps. Ensure when you get to the top of the steps you take a left turn. You will then be greeted by the well-earned CP 50 yds along the path.
  4. After reaching Offerton Village. Please continue through the village, until the signage points you down the track down from the village itself. There should be a marshal on the day, but please be alert for signs in this area.

There will be marshals and signs, but navigation of the course remains the responsibility of the runner.

Medical / First Aid

Full medical cover is provided by AED Medical Services.

They will be on hand at the race start/finish area for the duration of the event.

Finally

We are looking forward to meeting you all at Penshaw! There is a great atmosphere at trail races thanks to our fantastic runners and volunteers. The race marshals are there to cheer you on and stop you going the wrong way – so please thank them and give them a high five on the way round.

Come rain or shine bring your trail spirit and smile with you. Have a great time!