What is a Backyard Ultra?
A Backyard Ultra is a simple but brutally effective format.
Every hour, on the hour, runners complete one 4.167 mile (6.7km) loop. Finish the loop within the hour and you earn the right to go again. Finish late, or choose not to return to the start corral for the next lap, and your race is over.
This repeats hour after hour until only one runner remains.
There’s no fixed distance, no traditional finish line, and no set race duration. The only question is whether you’re willing to keep stepping back onto the line for one more lap.
Is Bristol Backyard Ultra beginner friendly?
Yes — but we also believe in being honest about the challenge.
The Backyard Ultra format itself is naturally beginner friendly because you decide how far you go. One lap is an achievement. Three laps is an achievement. Ten laps is an achievement.
That said, Blaise Castle Estate is not an easy course. It’s hilly, technical in places, and becomes increasingly demanding as the hours pass.
You do not need to be an elite runner to take part, but you do need to respect the challenge and come prepared.
We care far more about attitude, grit and community than pace.
How difficult is the course?
Brutally honest answer? Harder than many Backyard Ultra courses.
Blaise Castle Estate is beautiful, but it isn’t flat. Expect climbs, uneven ground, roots, rocks, woodland trails and a steep downhill section that becomes increasingly challenging on tired legs.
The course is fully marked and easy to follow, but trail shoes are strongly recommended — especially if the weather turns wet.
It’s tough, honest trail running. We think that’s part of what makes the event special.
What facilities are available at Basecamp?
Basecamp is the heart of the event.
There will be:
- Toilets
- Designated event parking
- A fully stocked aid station
- Hot and cold water
- Space for runners to set up camp between loops
- Easy crew access
- A clearly marked start/finish corral
Nearby there is also a café, green space and playground for friends and family supporting throughout the event.
As the hours go on, Basecamp develops a unique atmosphere — camp chairs, headtorches, tired runners, crew support, laughter, low moments and breakthroughs all happening side by side.
Can friends and family come along?
Absolutely.
Backyard Ultras are as much about community as they are running, and supporters genuinely become part of the experience.
Whether someone is staying for one lap or all night long, they’ll be welcomed into the atmosphere at Basecamp.
Blaise Castle Estate is also a great location for spectators, with nearby facilities such as a cafe and play park, and plenty of space to spend time between laps.
What happens when I stop?
Your race ends when:
- you do not complete a lap within the hour, or
- you choose not to continue onto the next lap.
And honestly? There is absolutely no shame in stopping. Ring the bell, celebrate with the team and enjoy the rest of the show!
One of the things we love most about the Backyard Ultra format is that it gives runners a safe space to explore their limits — physically and mentally — without judgement.
Whether you complete one lap or twenty, every return to the start line takes courage.
Do I need a support crew?
No — plenty of runners take part solo.
However, having a crew can make life much easier once the race moves deeper into the night. They can help with food, kit changes, motivation and keeping you organised between loops.
If you don’t have a crew, don’t worry. We’ll once again have a designated “Crewless Crew” area at Basecamp — a space for solo runners to set up alongside each other, share the experience and support one another throughout the race.
One of the best things about the Backyard Ultra format is how quickly strangers start looking after each other once the miles begin to build.
What should I bring?
Every runner approaches the event differently, but we’d strongly recommend:
- Trail shoes
- Warm layers
- Waterproofs
- Spare socks and shoes
- Headtorch (plus spare batteries)
- Nutrition and hydration
- Chair or shelter for Basecamp
- Changes of clothing for overnight conditions
A full race information pack will be sent closer to race day.
Is there a cut-off?
Only one: complete the loop before the next hour begins.
There are no traditional cut-offs, pace requirements or elimination points outside of the hourly format itself.
What makes Bristol Backyard Ultra different?
We’re not trying to build the biggest event.
We’re trying to build one that people genuinely feel connected to.
Bristol Backyard Ultra was created around the idea that endurance events should feel challenging, inclusive, emotional and community-driven all at the same time.
This is a grassroots event built by runners, for runners.
No ego. No gimmicks. Just grit, determination, community and one more lap.
