Established in 2020 from the passion for running.

Although we couldn’t welcome any runners on the start line in 2020 due to the pandemic, we were reluctant to give up as we still wanted to do something fun and give back to the community.

Our inaugural event took place in Northstowe in October 2020 during the second national COVID-19 lockdown.

Marcin, our Race Director, took up the challenge of running an ultra-marathon distance to raise funds for new playground markings for the Pathfinder C of E Primary School. During his 10-hour run, a group of wonderful volunteers sold freshly baked cakes prepared by our lovely neighbours, parents and teachers.

Marcin managed to run just over 78km, and we raised a total of £1,102,33 for the school!

Welcoming runners in Northstowe in 2021.

After months of hard work and careful planning, we welcomed the first runners at the Northstowe Festival of Running 2021 on September 5th. Runners were offered three different distances to choose from and over 550 runners of all ages and abilities signed up to take part in one of the runs:

  • NORTHSTOWE 10K
  • NORTHSTOWE 5K FUN RUN
  • NORTHSTOWE FAMILY MILE

Northstowe Running Festival is more than just a running event. We have partnered with multiple local providers, sports clubs and community groups to offer a wide range of activities in addition to running:

  • Fitness & Yoga
  • Dance classes
  • Live performances
  • Active plays and games
  • Street food market

We attracted hundreds of local residents who came to enjoy multiple free attractions and support our runners.

In 2021, we continued to work very closely and support our local schools: The Pathfinder C of E Primary, Hatton Park Primary School, Northstowe Secondary College and the Martin Bacon Academy (Special Educational Needs). All profit from the 5K Fun Run and the Family Mile was donated to the schools and we helped them raised a total of £2,542.40.

Our mission is to promote an active lifestyle in our community, particularly within the young generation. Today more than ever, we understand the value and benefits of staying active; it’s helpful to instil these good lifestyle habits from an early age.

The vision of the Northstowe Running Festival is to establish a sustainable community-focused running event, encouraging athletes at all levels to lead healthy lifestyles and further their personal fitness through running.