2025 New Forest Xmas Trails

The 2025 New Forest Xmas Trails will take place on Sunday, 7 December 2025, at Holmesly Campsite in Burley, located within the New Forest National Park in the United Kingdom. Early December in the New Forest typically brings cold temperatures ranging from 2-8°C (36-46°F), with frequent overcast skies and a high probability of rain or drizzle. Participants should expect damp, muddy trail conditions and potentially slippery underfoot surfaces. This festive trail running event offers multiple distance options ranging from 15 kilometres to 50 kilometres, welcoming runners of varying abilities and experience levels. The fully marked courses wind through the scenic landscapes of the National Park, supported by well-stocked aid stations and staffed by friendly volunteers. Finishers receive bespoke medals, with the option to plant a tree instead, combining a challenging outdoor experience with environmental responsibility.

What distances are available for this event?

• →15K race starting at 9:00 AM
• →30K race starting at 9:00 AM
• →Marathon race starting at 8:00 AM
• →50K Ultramarathon starting at 8:00 AM

How much does registration cost?

• →15K: £32 (age 16+)
• →30K: £42 (age 18+)
• →Marathon: £50 (age 18+)
• →50K Ultramarathon: £58 (age 18+)

What are the age requirements for each distance?

The 15K race is open to participants aged 16 and above. All longer distances—the 30K, Marathon, and 50K Ultramarathon—require participants to be aged 18 or older.

What time should I arrive for registration?

Registration times are divided by distance. Participants entering the Marathon or 50K Ultramarathon should register between 7:00–7:45 AM, while those running the 30K or 15K should register between 8:00–8:45 AM.

What are the time limits for completing each distance?

• →15K: 3 hours
• →30K: 5 hours
• →Marathon: 8 hours
• →50K Ultramarathon: 8 hours

What mandatory kit is required?

For the 30K, Marathon, and 50K distances, the following items are mandatory:

• →Minimum 500ml fluid (carried in a hydration vest or handheld flask)
• →Waterproof jacket
• →Hat, gloves, and buff
• →Foil blanket or orange survival bag
• →Mobile phone

The 15K distance does not have the same mandatory kit requirements as the longer distances. Additionally, carrying a GPX route file on your watch or phone is strongly advised for all distances.

What facilities are available at the event?

Participants have access to a bag drop service with dedicated tents located at the start and finish area. Well-stocked aid stations are positioned throughout the marked courses, providing support during the run. On-course photographers capture moments during the event, and friendly volunteers are stationed along the routes to offer encouragement and assistance.

What do finishers receive?

All finishers receive a bespoke medal commemorating their achievement. The event offers a Trees Not Tees option, allowing participants to plant a tree instead of receiving a physical medal, supporting environmental conservation efforts.

How does the weather typically affect this event?

December in the New Forest is cold and wet, with temperatures typically between 2-8°C (36-46°F). Participants should expect frequent rain or drizzle, overcast conditions, and muddy, slippery trail surfaces. The mandatory waterproof jacket, hat, gloves, and survival blanket are essential items for staying safe and comfortable in these seasonal conditions. The damp terrain may make footing challenging, so appropriate trail running shoes with good grip are recommended.

Is this event suitable for first-time ultramarathoners?

While the 50K Ultramarathon is available, participants should note that all distances beyond the 15K require participants to be at least 18 years old. The event provides well-stocked aid stations and marked courses with volunteer support throughout, which assists runners of varying experience levels. However, ultramarathon training is strongly recommended before attempting the 50K distance, and participants should ensure they are comfortable running for extended periods in winter conditions.

What makes this event different from standard trail races?

The 2025 New Forest Xmas Trails combines a challenging trail running experience with environmental responsibility through the Trees Not Tees initiative. The event is organised by BigFeat Events and offers excellent value for money with fully marked courses, on-course photographers, bespoke finisher's medals, and a festive atmosphere supported by knowledgeable volunteers. The scenic New Forest National Park location and multiple distance options make the event accessible to a wide range of runners.