Westonbirt 10K FAQs
Westonbirt 10K FAQs
When is the event?
The Westonbirt 10K takes place on Wednesday 29th April 2026 at 6:00pm.
Please arrive onsite at least 15 minutes early and make your way to the start line for your wave start time, which is displayed on your ticket.
The event is taking place in April this year to allow for essential path maintenance that are scheduled in May 2026.
What are Run Waves?
To help manage the flow of runners on the trails, we’re introducing run waves. When registering, runners will select a wave based on their estimated 10K finish time. There will be four run waves, each wave will start at 5-minute intervals from 6:00pm-6:15pm.
Please make sure you know which wave you've signed up for and arrive at the start line ready to go. This will be displayed on your ticket.
If you arrive after 6.15pm, you will not be able to run the 10K. This measure is in place for safety reasons due to limited daylight hours in April.
Run Wave Start Times
- Wave 1 – 18:00. Estimated 10k finish <45 mins
- Wave 2 – 18:05. Estimated 10k finish 45min-1 hour
- Wave 3 – 18:10. Estimated 10k finish 1 hour – 1hour 15 mins
- Wave 4 – 18:15. Estimated 10k finish > 1 hour 15 mins
Run categories
You can choose whether to be entered into a running category, this is optional. By providing both your gender and age (at the time of the run), we can enter you into a runner category, and this ensures you are eligible to receive a prize for coming 1st, 2nd or 3rd in your category. You will be asked for this information when booking, if you do not wish to provide this information and be entered into a category, you can select the ‘prefer not to say’ option.
What is a Cup-free event?
As part of our commitment to reducing environmental impact and supporting the forest, this event will be cup-free. Single-use cups will not be provided.
We encourage all runners to bring a reusable running cup or bottle to refill at designated water stations.
If you don’t already have one, a limited supply of collapsible reusable running cups will be available to purchase at the 'Friends of Westonbirt' Tent at the event.
Will there be food/water available?
Water re-fill points will be available at the start, midpoint and at the finish of the run.
Cups will not be provided, please bring your own reusable bottle/cup or purchase one on the day.
A small offering of hot/cold drinks and hot food (Hot Dogs, Burgers, Chips etc.) will be available to purchase before and after the run.
What's a 'Green runner'?
This year we are introducing the option to sign up as a Green Runner. Participants can choose to be a Green Runner by opting out of receiving a finish medal. This small action helps reduce event waste and supports Forestry England’s wider sustainability efforts. Green Runners will receive a green coloured run bib to showcase their sustainability support.
Are there prizes on offer at the event?
Yes, prize medals will be awarded to the top 3 male and female finishers, as well as 1st place winners of each age category.
Runners will be presented with a medal at the finish line, except for Green Runners who have chosen to opt-out of having a medal. Prize medals will be awarded afterwards.
Can I enter the run on the day?
No, the event is pre booking only.
Can anyone register for the 10K?
Runners must be aged 16 or older on the day of the event.
We recommend runners with a visual impairment have a guide runner. Information on guide runners can be found at www.englandathletics.org
If you require a complimentary guide place or would like to discuss your specific requirements, please email us on customerrelations@forestryengland.uk
What is the terrain like?
The 10K running route is on hard paths with uneven terrain.
Can I walk the event?
The Westonbirt 10K is designed for runners but you are able walk part of the route if required.
There will be a sweeper following the last runners to ensure we have runners clear of the course by approximately 8:30pm due to sunset and reduced visibility on course. However, this time could be subject to change as visibility can be weather dependent.
Can I run with a dog?
No, running with dogs is not permitted, however we do offer CaniX events. Please see our website for more details.
Can I run with a buggy?
Yes, but we ask that all buggy runners start from the rear of the wave for the safety of themselves and other runners.
Are there toilets and changing facilities at the event?
Toilets are located at the Welcome Building and near the Great Oak Hall. There are no toilets located around the course.
We do not have any showers or changing facilities onsite.
Is there a bag drop?
There is no bag drop facility at this event.
Can spectators attend?
Yes. Spectators will be able to access the arboretum from 4:30pm and will not be required to pre book a ticket. Any spectators wishing to enter the arboretum before 4:30pm will be required to pre book online or pay for an admission ticket at the Welcome Building.
How is the 10K timed?
The 10K will be chip timed. All runners will be sent a run number in the post prior to the event. The run number contains the timing chip.
Please note that if you forget to bring your run number you may not be able to get an accurately recorded time.
Will my allocated number/run bib be posted out to me?
Yes, you will receive your run pack including your number approximately two weeks before the event. Your number is your responsibility, and replacements may not be available on the day of the event.
You will need to complete the reverse of the run bib with your medical information. This is important should you require medical assistance.
What should I do if I have not received my number and timing chip in advance?
If you have not received your run pack by Thursday 16 April, please contact us on customerrelations@forestryengland.uk
How do I attach my timing chip and allocated number?
Your timing chip is incorporated into your number and should not be removed. Please place the number on the front of your vest/shirt and not on your leg or back. Please make sure your bib is visible to ensure your chip time is recorded.
Can I wear headphones whilst running?
Yes, but please ensure you are aware of your surroundings and can clearly hear any instructions given to you by stewards.
I cannot make it, can I get a refund?
Tickets are non-refundable as per our terms and conditions, however we offer a ticket protection option that can cover your booking for unforeseen circumstances. Details of this and the policy, will be offered when booking. Alternatively, we can transfer your ticket to another runner – please see details below.
Can I transfer my entry to someone else?
Yes, provided you let us know any changes at least 48 hours in advance of the run by contacting customerrelations@forestryengland.uk. Please note, that the ticket purchaser will still receive the run pack and will need to pass this onto the new runner. You will need to include the following details in your email to transfer your place:
- Full Name
- Wave (based on estimated run time)
- Gender
- Age at the time of the run
- Do they want to be a green runner by opting out of a finishers medal.
- UK Athletics affiliation number (if applicable)
Please ensure you do let us know about any changes so that we have an accurate participant list. This is vital for safety reasons. If you are discovered using someone else’s number, you will be removed from the run and banned from all future sporting events.
Run Photography
Photography and filming may take place for promotional and marketing purposes – which includes social media. Please contact us to let us know if you do not want your image to be used.
Can I fundraise for charity?
Yes, you can.
Do I have to pay for parking?
No, parking is free for this event.
Has the course been officially measured as 10K?
Yes, the course was measured by the Association of UK Course Measurers in August 2018 and is a registered 10K distance.
http://coursemeasurement.org.uk/detail.php?area=Midlands&no=2018414.
How can I get my results?
Results will be available from our partner company, DB Max, after the run. These may not be available until Thursday 30 April.
How will my data be managed?
Participant details will be provided to DB Max timing company for run management. Results will be published including your name, run time, run category and video. See their Privacy Policy
A post event survey will be sent to the email address provided. You are under no obligation to complete the survey but doing so will help plan future activities. See our Privacy Policy.
What are the terms and conditions?
Forestry England event terms and conditions apply. In addition:
- Dogs are not permitted
- Runners must be medically fit to take part
- Stay hydrated. Cups are not provided, bring a refillable water bottle to use at the water stations.
- Amendments to runner details can be made up to 48 hours in advance, however run packs will be sent to the ticket purchaser.
- Runner details are provided to DB Max Chip Timing Services for run management. Results will be published including your name, run time, run category and video. See their Privacy Policy
- A post event survey will be sent to the email address provided. You are under no obligation to complete the survey but doing so will help plan future activities. See our Privacy Policy.