Festive Leeds & Liverpool Canal Run – Bingley Winter Running Event

Looking for a flat, scenic and festive running challenge this winter? Join us for the Leeds & Liverpool Canal Winter Running Event just outside Bingley, West Yorkshire. With race distances ranging from 5k to Ultra Marathon, this popular trail running event is suitable for all abilities – from first-time 5k runners to seasoned ultra-distance athletes chasing a PB.

The route follows the beautiful Leeds & Liverpool Canal towpath, renowned for being flat, well-surfaced and beginner-friendly (apart from the iconic 3-Rise and 5-Rise Locks). Whether you’re taking on your first race, stepping up to a new distance, or going for an ultra, this chip-timed event is the perfect opportunity to challenge yourself.

And since it’s the festive season – we’d love to see you running in your best Christmas fancy dress! 

What’s Included

✅ Elevation: Flat (with only the canal locks for a challenge)
✅ Terrain: Good quality canal towpath – ideal trail running surface
✅ Feed & drink stations every 3 miles with water, sweets and treats
✅ Fully marshalled & clearly signed course
✅ Toilets available at Bingley Rugby Club (near parking)
✅ Bespoke festive medal & post-race goodies for every finisher

Getting Here

Race Start Location: What3Words blotchy.dumplings.defected

By Train: Just 1.5 miles from Bingley Train Station – a great option if you’re travelling from Leeds, Bradford, or Skipton.

By Car: Parking available at Bingley Rugby Club What3Words dreamers.sweetened.mercy.

• £5 per car – please bring correct cash.

• 5–10 minute walk to the start line.

• Car sharing is encouraged.

Race Timetable & Distances

Registration opens from 8:00am – please allow at least 1 hour to park, register, and use facilities.

• 5k – 8:30am start

• 10k – 10:00am start

• Half Marathon – 9:00am start

• Marathon (2x Half) – 8:30am start

All races are Trail Running Association licensed.

Race Day Essentials

•  Cup-less Event: To reduce waste, please bring your own reusable cup or bottle for use at feed stations.

• Headphones: For safety, no over-ear headphones allowed. If using in-ear, please wear bone-conducting headphones or “one in, one out” only.

•  Road Crossings: Some minor road crossings may be unmarshalled, so please take care.

• Injured or Retiring? Let the nearest marshal know immediately.

• Transfers/Deferrals: Available free via the Grim Up North website. On-the-day changes cause delays, so please update in advance if possible.

Why Run the Leeds & Liverpool Canal Race?

• Stunning Yorkshire canal scenery

• Flat, fast, beginner-friendly course

• Distances from 5k, 10k, half marathon, marathon, to ultra

• Ideal festive running challenge near Leeds, Bradford & Skipton

• Great atmosphere, fancy dress fun & community feel

•  

For FAQs and runner chat, join the Grim Up North Chat Group on Facebook.

Secure your place today and enjoy one of Yorkshire’s most scenic festive running events along the historic Leeds & Liverpool Canal in Bingley!