Bristol to Bath Trail

27th September 2025

Join us for an unforgettable journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the South West! Whether you choose to run or walk, the Bristol to Bath trail is a fully supported event that takes you through the picturesque Cotswolds before descending into the historic beauty of Bath. The route suits all levels of runners and experienced walkers.

Choose your challenge

25km walk/hike – Starting at 9.15am, embark on the stunning trail with fellow Southmead Hospital Charity supporters, hospital staff and members of the charity team.

25km run – Set off at 9am amongst other trail runners. The climbing, descending and overall terrain will be challenging in places, but the landscapes guarantee to make this a half marathon to remember. Don’t worry if you need to walk some of the way – that’s encouraged so you can properly take in the beauty of where you are running!

Walkers and runners follow the same route, starting at Bristol and Bath Science Park and finishing at the bandstand in Royal Victoria Park, Bath. All will have an opportunity to feature in a Southmead Hospital Charity group photo before the start.

About the route

Follow beautiful, traffic-free trails through the South Gloucestershire countryside, offering stunning views and a gentle start. The tougher (but most rewarding!) final section leads you through the breathtaking Cotswolds AONB, with panoramic views over Bristol and into Wales. You can view the 25km route map here.

Organised by Trail Escape, this is a fully supported route with wayfinding and marshals just like a traditional road event. There will be Aid Stations with fuel, food, hydration and toilets – and cheer points and music to enhance your experience!

Discounted entry and fundraising

Save £20 on your event entry when you sign up to support Southmead Hospital Charity. You will have the option to add parking and the shuttle bus back to Bristol during registration. All participants must be 16 or older on the day of the event.

To make the most of the experience, we encourage you to raise at least £200 to support our hospitals. A ‘Bristol to Bath Trail’ fundraising page will be set up for you automatically when you complete your registration.

Why join Southmead Hospital Charity?

Not only will you have a fantastic day out, but you will have a great sense of achievement having made a real difference to patients, their families and hospital staff here in Bristol.

Join us in the Bristol to Bath Trail and receive:

  • A free Southmead Hospital Charity t-shirt or running vest when you raise at least £100
  • Top tips and digital resources to help you reach your fundraising goal
  • The official Trail Escape ‘finishers’ event t-shirt and medal
  • An opportunity to meet / walk with members of the charity team and stroke therapies team, and hear about the incredible projects you’re helping to make possible including our Walkerbot Appeal

FAQs

Can I take part in the marathon route instead?

Yes, we offer discounted places in the marathon route too. The run starts at 8.15am and the walk starts at 8.30am at UWE Bristol, finishing at Royal Victoria Park. Please contact hannah.jones3@nbt.nhs.uk if you’re interested in registering for the marathon as this option is not included in our registration form.

Where can I find the Participant Instructions?

The official instructions/guide will be emailed to you around one month ahead of the event. This will include what you need to bring on the day and other need-to-know information.

When will I receive my race pack?

Runners will be sent their race pack/bib numbers a few weeks before the event.

Is this a timed event?

Yes, but it’s not necessarily a race. This is more of an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful views without the pressure of chasing PBs.

Will there be a cut-off time?

Trail Escape are working to a 10hr time limit, which is less than 3 miles per hour. The route will be clearly marked and marshalled to ensure participants don’t get lost.

Can I book parking and a shuttle bus back to the start?

While we encourage you to use public transport (there are several bus options), we know that is not always feasible. There is limited parking available at Bristol to Bath Science Park and there will be a shuttle bus from the finish back to the start. Both parking and the shuttle bus will need to be added during your registration.

Can I get a refund? Refunds must be requested within 14 days of booking to southmeadhospitalcharity@nbt.nhs.uk. If the event is cancelled according to Trail Escape’s terms and conditions, you will receive a refund.

For more, please visit Trail Escape’s FAQs here.

We’re here to help you

If you have any questions about the event or your fundraising, please get in touch with Hannah.

Contact Hannah

Community Fundraising Manager


hannah.jones3@nbt.nhs.uk

07920 413700

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