Join thousands at Bedfordshire's most popular day of running!

This is more than just a race. Take on the Fun Run, Bedford 5K, Twilight 10K, Bedford Half Marathon or 20 Mile race in 2027. Then relax and soak up the festival vibes, with live music, great food and drink, and activities to keep the whole family entertained.

Get ready for an incredible day of running, celebration and community spirit at the Bedford Running Festival! Taking place on Saturday 4th September 2027, the festival welcomes everyone, from first-time runners and families to club athletes and charity fundraising groups.

Something for every ability

Choose from the Fun Run Mini Miles, the 5K, the atmospheric Twilight 10K, the Half Marathon and the 20-Miler. Every finisher receives a custom-designed medal and race goodies. Fun Run medals go to registered (paid) participants only.

Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult with their own ticket, whichever distance they enter.

We are delighted to confirm that our much loved double finisher medal is back for 2027! Take on two distances (excluding the Fun Run/Mini Miles) and you will not only take home a medal for each distance completed, you will also get a fantastic double finisher medal to show off your achievement!

Race times: Saturday 4th September 2027

• 9:30am: Half Marathon
• 9:30am: 20 Mile
• 3:00pm: 5K
• 4:30pm: Fun Run
• 5:30pm: Twilight 10K

Up for the ultimate challenge?

Take on the Trifecta!

Complete the 5K, Twilight 10K & Half Marathon in one day to earn the Bedford Running Festival Trifecta:

• Morning: Half Marathon (9:30am)
• Afternoon: 5K (3:00pm)
• Evening: Twilight 10K (5:30pm)

Take on the Trifecta Plus!

Complete the 5K, Twilight 10K & 20 Mile in one day to earn the Bedford Running Festival Trifecta Plus:

• Morning: 20 Mile (9:30am)
• Afternoon: 5K (3:00pm)
• Evening: Twilight 10K (5:30pm)

Every Trifecta & Trifecta Plus finisher will receive a unique Trifecta medal, presented live on the main stage at 8pm. Finish strong, then take your moment in the spotlight in front of the festival crowd. Do you have what it takes?

The festival village

The Bedford Running Festival is so much more than a race. From morning to night, Russell Park comes alive with live music, entertainment, a buzzing festival village, a fully stocked bar, delicious street food, a funfair and plenty of family activities. The festival village opens at 7:30AM. Whether you're running, cheering or just enjoying the atmosphere, there's something for everyone.

Three live acts will keep the party going after the Twilight 10K, with the Trifecta medal presentation taking centre stage at 8pm. Acts will be announced soon! The festival village is free to enter, and everyone is welcome.

Run for charity

We're proud to support local charities, and you can get involved too. Secure a free entry by signing up to run on behalf of one of our official charity partners.

Follow the ATW Bedford Running Festival on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates, announcements and race day coverage!

The Bedford Running Festival is so much more than just a race. Across the weekend, Russell Park will come alive with live music, entertainment, a buzzing festival village, a fully stocked bar, delicious street food, a funfair, and plenty of activities for the whole family. Whether you're running, cheering, or just soaking in the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

On Saturday 5th September from 6PM, we will have three live acts keeping you entertained. Acts will be announced soon! An evening not to be missed! Everyone is welcome in the festival village and it's FREE to enter.

We’re also proud to support local charities, and you can get involved too. Runners have the opportunity to secure a free entry by signing up to run on behalf of one of our official charity partners.