UPDATE: Following the collapse of the Llangollen canal and subsequent restrictions put in place by the Canal and River Trust, we have amended the start line. The start line in Whitchurch will now be at the Lockside Cafe in Grindley Brook. This shortens the race by approximately 2 miles / 3km.
Run the Ridge.
32 miles of ancient woodland, open ridgelines, historic castles and big-sky Cheshire plains beauty.
The Joe Beswick Sandstone Challenge is a point-to-point journey across one of the most (we think) inspiring long-distance trails in the North West. Organised by Helsby Running Club – it’s also one of the most welcoming.
In one day out, you’ll pass through three counties and thousands of years of history – and we think that’s pretty cool.
If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping up to a long trail challenge but wanted something supportive, runnable and rooted in community spirit, this is your start line.
ENTRIES OPEN NOW!
Read on to find out more!
Race essentials
Distance: ~32 miles / 52 km (Please note this has changed as of Feb 1 2026)
Elevation: 1,268m / 4,160 ft
Cut-off: 10 hours (runner-only event – please note this has changed!)
When: Sunday 10 May 2026 08:30am
Where: Whitchurch → Frodsham (coach from Frodsham shuttles you to the start)
Entry Fee: £45 (includes free coach + finish food)
Age limit: 18+
Entries open: 22 December 2025 via Fabian4
Limited to 250 runners. You are free to navigate the course by running, walking or a combination of the two but you must complete the course within the 10 hour time limit.
A challenge worth taking
From the quiet lanes of Whitchurch to the trials of Delamere Forest and final descent into the historic market town of Frodsham, the Sandstone Trail offers some pretty unforgettable moments:
- Picturesque Shropshire canals
- Panoramic views across Bickerton Hill
- The imposing crag of Beeston Castle
- Wide-open Cheshire plains
- Runnable forest tracks through Delamere
- The final push home, cheered on by the Helsby Run Club community
The terrain is friendly and climbs are, well…manageable (it is an ultra after all!).
You’ll still be challenged with navigation and should have some knowledge of a compass and map, but following a waymarked trail and surrounded by other runners means you’ll have plenty of support.
This is a perfect first long trail run, but equally a beautiful, fast challenge for experienced runners.
Small race, big heart
We’re a small, volunteer-led event, bringing together lots of faces from across the community – including the Scouts, the Delamere Spartans and other locals who have dedicated years to supporting the challenge.
What can you expect?
- Five fully-stocked checkpoints. Big smiles. Maybe an ice lolly or two.
- A free coach shuttle from Frodsham to Whitchurch to start.
- A finish filled with good old fashioned hot drinks, sandwiches and cakes!.
- ….And some good weather (Fingers crossed!)
The atmosphere is everything you want in a big challenge: joyful, supportive, local and proud.
Check out the route!
Getting curious? Check out the GPX file here. Please note the route is subject to change, and we will reissue a confirmed route closer to the time. This is just for information!
NOTE: Due to the collapse of the Llangollen Canal, we have had to amend the start line to begin at the Lockside Cafe in Grindley Brook. This is now included in the below updated links.
For Strava users please follow the link highlighted.
Even on a waymarked route, it is still entirely possible to get lost. Please make sure you’re comfortable with a map and compass as that’s going to be your safest bet come challenge day!
More information on the official Sandstone Trail route can be found here!
Please note that the challenge day route will include a traverse across small stretches of private land to avoid crossing main roads. We work hard with the land owner to gain permission for challenge day only, so please use the official Sandstone Trail route to navigate on any recce runs.
Previous years results
Take a look at how some of our past participants fared on the Sandstone Trail.
Women still only comprise approximately 30% of entrants, and we would love to see that number increase! If you’re thinking about giving the Joe Beswick Sandstone Trail Challenge a go but are unsure for any reason, please do get in touch!
Challenge Day – what to expect
- Register at Frodsham Community Centre (06:30–07:00)
- Hop on the coach to the start in Whitchurch (07:15)
- Briefing on route!
- The adventure begins at 08:30
- Final cut off is 18:30 at Frodsham Community Centre.
Every runner will receive a GPX file, challenge day briefing notes, and checkpoint support along the route.
If you’d like to join us at Whitchurch instead, you’re very welcome!
Race legacy
This event carries its own history.
Originally revived by Helsby Running Club in 2011, it was renamed in 2022 to honour Joe Beswick – a Helsby runner, coach and lifelong supporter who made everyone feel like they could do anything they set their mind to. Joe’s trademark “wahh hay!” is still part of local running folklore, and each year the first man and woman home lift trophies donated by Joe’s family. It’s a challenge powered by the memories of our people and their legacy.
Ready to take on the challenge?
Entries are open now and are limited to 250 places via Fabian4. We would love to see you!
Please read the full terms and conditions. By entering the Joe Beswick Sandstone Trail Challenge, you confirm you have read and understood all of our terms and conditions.
Questions?
The race directors for 2026 are Helsby Run Club members Liz Walker, Immy Sykes and Matt Hampson (see our pics below – it’s a team effort!) Get in touch with any questions or concerns: helsbysandstonechallenge@gmail.com
