ESSENTIAL EVENT INFORMATION 2026
THE WALL ULTRA
ARE YOU READY TO HIT THE WALL AND TAKE ON OUR ICONIC ULTRAMARATHON?
This is our Essential Event Information guide which contains a comprehensive round up of everything you need to know. Before you know it, you'll be stood in the shadow of Carlisle Castle with 70 miles of adventure ahead of you as you weave your way through Hadrian's Wall country to the iconic Millennium Bridge in Gateshead. We promise you're going to have an incredible time on the biggest edition of this adventure ever! With the unwavering support of our crew, volunteers and your fellow #ratracers we are confident you're going to cross the finish line victorious having achieved something spectacular.
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Due to the scale and nature of Rat Race Events, changes to the course, structure and timings sometimes need to be made right up to the date of the event. To ensure you have the latest information and are fully prepared for the challenge that lies ahead, please check back on this EEI before travelling to the event.
This EEI was last updated on: 07/04/2026
HANDY LINKS:
SKIP TO SECTION
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
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Online Disclaimer MUST be completed before attending Tracker Collection, you can do this HERE.
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​Tracker Collection: Friday 12th June between 1200 - 2100 The Crown & Mitre Hotel, Carlisle, CA3 8HZ. You must register and pick up your tracker between these times, there is no option to register on the morning of the event. You MUST bring your running backpack to Tracker Collection so your tracker can be taped on when allocated.
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Bib Numbers: These will be posted out in advance of the event. UK residents should expect to receive their adventure pack around 1-2 weeks before the event. International participants will be required to collect their adventure pack from Tracker Collection. Please ensure you have your current address on your entry, you can update this by logging into your Rat Race account. You MUST bring your bib number to Tracker Collection.
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The start is at Carlisle Castle at between 0600 - 0700 on the 13th June, CA3 8UR. You selected a wave when entering the event, please see reminder of waves here: Wave 1 (Yellow) - Start Time 0600, Wave 2 (Red) - Start Time 0615, Wave 3 (Green) - Start Time 0630, Wave 4 (Blue) - Start Time 0645, Wave 5 (Pink) - Start Time 0700. These cannot be changed, but you can drop back into a later start time on the day to run with a friend. You cannot move forward. Please do not get in touch with us requesting to move forward as we are unable to accommodate this request.
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Kit Checks: There will be random kit checks at various pitstops and at the start, with a particular focus at Hexham as typically this is when most #ratracers move into the night. You MUST carry all of the mandatory kit at ALL times. If you fail a check your tracker will be removed and you will not be allowed to continue in the event.
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The transfer deadline is 12th May 2026: You can find more information on our transfer policy HERE and process your transfer from your Rat Race account. We are unable to make any exceptions after the deadline has passed.​​
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NO water at the start: Please arrive at the start with all of your water bottles/reservoirs etc full of water, there is not a water fill up point at the start.
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Bag drops and toilets: Available in the castle car park on the morning of the event. Please ensure your bags are clearly labelled, bag tags will be provided in your adventure pack. See Bag section below for more info.
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Emergency Contact numbers and information for during the event only is printed on the reverse of your bib number.
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Supporters: All pitstops are accessible to supporters, however, at certain location parking is limited, see Supporter Guidance for more details. A traffic warden is in effect at locations do not park illegally.
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Road Safety: This event takes place on public paths, shared access trails and live roads. There are no closed road sections please always exercise caution.
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Route: You can view the GPX for this event HERE. Please ensure you DO NOT follow this route on the day and instead follow our waymarking due to last minute changes that may occur.
TRAVEL
This is a one way journey and if you are not travelling with supporters we recommend the following plan as a tried and tested method of planning your movements.
TRAVELLING BY CAR
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Book a train from Newcastle to Carlisle for the 12th June. Tickets are normally released 12 weeks in advance on www.trainline.com
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On Friday drive to Newcastle train station, park in the long stay car park and catch your train to Carlisle.
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Book accommodation in Carlisle city centre for Friday 12th June.
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Attend Registration in Carlisle between 1200 - 2200 at the Crown and Mitre Hotel.
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Run/walk 70 miles!
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We strongly recommend booking a hotel in Newcastle city centre/Gateshead for the night of the 13th June if you plan to finish in the middle of the night, but let them know you may arrive in the early hours of the morning.
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Once you cross the finish line, you can use our free shuttle bus or book an Uber to get to your hotel (city centre hotels only). Our shuttle buses work on rotation so there may be a small wait for one returning.
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Our free shuttle runs to city centre hotels and also Newcastle train station to get you back to your car, the shuttle will only pick up from the finish line, there are no city centre pick ups.
TRAVELLING BY TRAIN
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Book a train to Carlisle for the 12th June. Tickets are normally released 12 weeks in advance on www.trainline.com
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Book accommodation in Carlisle city centre for Friday 12th June.
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Attend Registration in Carlisle between 1200 - 2200 at the Crown and Mitre Hotel.
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Run/walk 70 miles!
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We strongly recommend booking a hotel in Newcastle city centre/Gateshead for the night of the 13th June if you plan to finish in the middle of the night, but let them know you may arrive in the early hours of the morning.
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Use our free shuttle bus or book an Uber from the finish line to your hotel. Our shuttle buses work on rotation so there may be a small wait for one returning.
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Our free shuttle runs to Newcastle train station from the finish on the morning of the 14th June (Sunday) please note the train station does not open until 0730 on the Sunday.
TRACKER COLLECTION
HOW TO GET THERE
Tracker Collection is on Friday 12th June between 1200 - 2100 at The Crown & Mitre Hotel, Carlisle, CA3 8HZ.
You must register and pick up your tracker between these times, there is no option to register on the morning of the event.
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The location is central and easily accessible from the train station. If you are driving we recommend using a local public car park and walking to the hotel as their is no parking available at Tracker Collection. ​​
REMINDER!
You MUST bring the following to Tracker Collection:
1) Bib Number
2) Running Pack
(Tracker will be taped directly to your pack)​
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REGISTRATION STEPS
1) Bib Number - You will receive your bib number through the post 1-2 weeks before the event. International participants will need to collect their bib number in person on 12th June from Tracker Collection. You MUST bring your bib number to tracker collection.
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2) Disclaimer - Your bib number will be scanned to show disclaimer completion and you will then receive your The WallRat Rag. You can complete the online disclaimer now HERE, it takes 2 mins and we encourage you to do this now and certainly well in advance of Tracker Collection.
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3) T-shirt collection - If you have pre-ordered a t-shirt, you will be able to collect this. The size you selected will be printed on your bib number.
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IMPORTANT: Pre-ordered t-shirts must be collected at Tracker Collection. If you do not collect your t-shirt, you will need to pay for this to be posted out to you after the event.
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4) Tracker Collection - You will be issued your tracker from Open Tracking. There will be a link available on the website closer to the event for you to share with friends/family so they can track your progress over the weekend. There is some important guidance on the trackers below so please do ensure you read this. You MUST bring your running backpack to Tracker Collection so your tracker can be taped on when allocated.​
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Start Line Ready!
TRACKER
You will be issued with your Tracker from Open Tracking at Registration.
The trackers rely on GSM & satellite signal to report, (which is generally very good across a lot of our route) but there is a delay on tracking. Sometimes, our team back at base will increase or decrease the reporting frequency, so those watching at home will sometimes not see your dot moving, or see you moving very slowly. Or they may see you adrift from others in the group (for example if you have not turned the tracker on!).
It is REALLY important that you ensure anyone watching at home knows this, for their own peace of mind and for our own safety systems. Experience shows that if someone watching at home does not understand this, they can sometimes unwittingly commence full rescue missions by panicking, calling in the cavalry and sparking confusion for us as organisers. As such, it really is a very important point to note.
You must return this device at the end of the event there is a charge levied of £150 for any tracker that is not returned.
We recommend that people use the Open Tracking website and not the app for the best experience. The tracking link can be found on The Wall website and within this document closer to the event.
BAG DROP
LOCATION
0530 - 0645 13th June: Castle Car Park, CA3 8UL
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BAGS TO DROP
We will transport 2 bags for you, please ensure they are clearly labelled (tags provided in your Adventure Pack) and that you put them on the right truck! ​
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Hexham Bag: this will meet you at the 44 mile mark and must weigh less than 5kg and be a max of 15L in size. This bag will be exposed to the elements so please ensure it is waterproof or that you pack your kit into dry bags inside your bag. This will then be transported from Hexham to the finish after you have used it, you will be directed where to put it at Hexham to ensure it is loaded onto the finish van.​
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Finish Bag: this will go directly to the finish at Gateshead and it can be a max of 70L and weigh no more than 15kg. This bag will be exposed to the elements so please ensure it is waterproof or that you pack your kit into dry bags inside your bag.
IMPORTANT BAG REMINDERS
You MUST move your Hexham bag to the finish pen at Hexham before departing the pitstop, even if you decide not to use it. Once it is in the finish pen, it will then be transported to the finish line for you to collect. If you do not move your bag to the finish pen at Hexham, it will not be transported to the finish until the very end of the event and may not be there when you cross the line.
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Head torches are mandatory so please do not put this piece of kit in your HEXHAM bag. They MUST be carried from the start.​
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Bags over the weight limit will not be transported due to legal weight restrictions of the vehicles used. Please don't pack everything and the kitchen sink!
UNCOLLECTED BAGS
Any uncollected bags can be collected from Rat Race HQ, Hurstwood Business Centre, Thirsk Industrial Park, York Road, Thirsk, YO7 3BX from Thursday 18th June onwards. Please email events@ratrace.com ahead of travelling to the office so we can ensure there is a member of team at HQ to meet you.
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If you need us to post your bags to you, this will incur a postage fee £7.99.
MANDATORY KIT LIST
Taking on this iconic ultramarathon is no small feat and you need to ensure you are fully prepared and kitted up for this epic!
Every single year, the number one reason for #ratracers not reaching the finish line is because they get too cold. Do not let the fact is it June fool you, conditions over the years have varied massively and especially when night falls and you are tired, it can get very cold.
The mandatory kit requirements are in place not only to give you the best chance of taking on the adventure but ultimately for your safety. Should you be unable to continue the event and require assistance, the correct equipment will help ensure you remain as safe, warm, and dry as possible while waiting for help.
Spot checks will be carried out throughout the event at pitstops and every #ratracer will need to show certain items before leaving Hexham pitstop. Any #ratracer found without the mandatory kit will not be permitted to continue. These rules are non-negotiable and are designed to protect both you and our event staff.
Please review the full kit list carefully and ensure you carry every item. Your preparation could make all the difference, not just for finishing the challenge but for staying safe while doing so.
KIT CHECKS
We have outlined why carrying each item of the mandatory kit is essential for your safety and success during the event within the document above. Please be aware that there will be random kit checks at various pitstops and at the start, with a particular focus at Hexham Pitstop as this is where most #ratracers will then be heading into the night. We reserve the right to check any item of mandatory kit during the event and you will be unable to continue should you not have required kit.
RAT RACE STORE
As a #RatRacer you now have a 15% discount in our store so you can get kitted out with lots of the above.
Use the code THEWALL26 to save 15% on full priced kit only, excludes event specific merchandise and bundles.
ROUTE
THE START
The event starts at Carlisle Castle at between 0600 - 0700 on the 13th June, CA3 8UR.
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Please find a google pin to the start location HERE ​​
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You selected a wave when entering the event, please see reminder of waves here:
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Wave 1 (Yellow) - Start Time 0600
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Wave 2 (Red) - Start Time 0615
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Wave 3 (Green) - Start Time 0630
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Wave 4 (Blue) - Start Time 0645
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Wave 5 (Pink) - Start Time 0700
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These cannot be changed, but you can drop back into a later start time on the day to run with a friend. You cannot move forward. Please do not get in touch with us requesting to move forward as we are unable to accommodate this request.
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Please arrive at the start with all of your water bottles/reservoirs etc full of water, there is not a water fill up point at the start.
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PITSTOPS
There are 5 for our famous pitstops along the route, see Pitstop section below for a full breakdown of distances, locations, cut-offs and what to expect at each pitstop.
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FINISH LINE
The finish line is Gateshead Millennium Bridge, NE8 3BA.
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We are set up on the Baltic Square to welcome you warmly across the finish line and congratulate you on this epic achievement! In our marquee we have our medic team should you need them, the option to get a post-event recovery massage and some locally provided hot food and drinks(vegan and veggie options available). We encourage you to think about what time you are aiming to finish and book a local hotel room if necessary so you can get a shower and some well earned rest, we do advise letting them know you may arrive after midnight so they don't give your room away. Our marquee is not set up for you to stay for an extended amount of time and it is not going to be a comfy place to sleep! Newcastle Train Station does not open until 0730 on Sunday morning so please ensure you have made a plan for the finish.
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POST-EVENT MASSAGE
We are pleased to offer a post-event massage service to aid recovery for your hard worked legs! This is available on a first-come first-serve basis, offered in the marquee at the finish line. The service costs £15 for 15 minutes, payable to the therapist directly via cash or card.
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WAYMARKING & GPX
The route will be fully waymarked. We use white arrows on bright orange backgrounds approximately A5 size, as well as small blue flags. Even though the route will be well waymarked, you must pay close care and attention to the route to ensure that you do not go off course.
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View GPX file HERE​​​
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IMPORTANT NOTE ON GPX FILES: A word of warning about downloading and using GPX files. The files currently available are as accurate as they can be now (see above for expected changes), however, once we are on the ground and the event begins, there may be additional changes we need to make due to unforeseen or unexpected circumstances e.g. fallen tree etc. In these cases, the waymarking will be amended to allow continued safe passage but the GPX files will not be updated. If this case arises, you should ALWAYS follow the waymarking and not your GPS device. The detour is very likely to be short and the waymarking and GPX file will soon get back in sync. To be clear: The on the ground waymarking overrides the GPX file.
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LITTER
Please help us leave this beautiful part of the country litter free by ensuring you have a pocket ready for your on the move rubbish which you can then dispose of at the next Pitstop. We will gladly take this from you, if you see a discarded gel or sweet wrapper we ask that you pick it up on behalf of your fellow #ratracer who we are sure dropped it by accident.
SAFETY
​​SAFETY ON ROADS
When running on public roads you should face oncoming traffic and travel in single file (on the right hand side). However, should you be approaching a blind bend of rise, carefully move over to the other side of the road temporarily. Our signage and marshals will occasionally direct you to do this too, please follow their instructions. Should there be two-way traffic we ask that you stop to allow the car to pass you, ensuring you do not force the car behind you into the path of oncoming traffic. If there is a path available please use it.
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HI-VIS CLOTHING
For the entirety of the event we ask that you do not wear dark or dull colours, or colours that blend with vegetation such as hedges. If you've got a jazzy pair of leggings or shorts throw them on! For an event of this distance that takes you into dusk and beyond, wearing brightly coloured clothing will enhance your safety on public roads. Please ensure you have reflective/hi-vis items ready for the night stages of the event, this will be checked as darkness falls.
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RUNNING IN THE DARK
A little achluophobia (fear of the dark) is very normal in an ultra, it's common to feel a bit tired and emotional as the sun goes down and the batteries are running low. You may feel more vulnerable than usual when running on your own so we whole heartedly encourage you to strike up a conversation with a fellow #ratracer and make a new friend! We have buddy stations at Hexham and Newburn where you can wait to find a buddy to walk/run the next section with.
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NEW FOR 2026 - BUDDY UP STATION
We will have a waiting section at Hexham and Newburn where people who are a bit nervous about the next section through the night can hang fire for a buddy. Please make sure you check this section if you're happy to have some company along for the ride, we know our #ratracers are a friendly bunch!
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​DROPPING OUT
Once you have started, if you wish to drop out of the event at any point you must contact the Race Team to inform them and return your tracker to a member of staff, even if you do not need further support from us. If you do not have your own pick-up option (eg a support crew with you) we will arrange to collect you and move you forward along the course. We cannot move you backwards. Race Team numbers are supplied at Registration.
​ROUTE ETIQUETTE AND LIVESTOCK
Please ensure all gates are closed behind you and never climb over locked gates. This is to ensure livestock do not escape fields so please do not leave it open for the next runner unless they are right behind you. There are very few fields with cattle on the route but when you encounter them please do not disturb them and observe the following points: If you are the first person to enter the fields please stop running and be prepare to slow to a walk . Do not pass between calf and cows or cause them to separate from their herd. Stay way from lone calves and never run straight towards a cow. Avoid sudden movements and high pitched loud noises. Although gentle singing and talking will let cows know you are there. Follow other participants and create a predictable route, be aware that dogs can startle livestock so keep a look out for other walkers who may be in your vicinity.
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RESPECT OTHER PEOPLE
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Consider the local community and other people enjoying the outdoors.
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Leave gates closed and property as you find it and follow paths unless wider access is available
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Protect the natural environment:
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Leave no trace of your visit and take your litter home
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Plan ahead and be prepared
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Follow advice and local signs
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Enjoy!
INCIDENT CONTACTS DURING THE EVENT
1. For all incidents contact the Race Director or Medical Team
2.Failing this, in the event of a true emergency or serious incident call 999....then inform the Race Director or Medical Team
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Emergency contact numbers and information for use during the event only are printed on the reverse of your bib number.​
NOTE: Text or call back if you do not get through.
DO NOT leave voicemails. The Rat Race phoneline is only active during this event.
SUPPORTER INFORMATION
IMPORTANT!​
Pit Stop 2 and 3 have the most limited parking available which is why we recommend you choose one or the other to try and see your participant at. These 2 Pit Stops are just 6 miles apart in the course. There will be strict traffic management plans in operations at both of these locations, you must obey any instructions given by traffic marshals, fines will be in operation. If the location you are trying to access is full, you may be turned away. In 2025 spectators parked illegally in key locations causing access issues for local public transport and risking the 15 year relationship we have built with local landowners and the future of this event. Please ensure your spectators do not park on blind corners or on the side of the road at The Sill and Walltown Quarry.
SUPPORTER ACCESS
The Wall passes through some beautiful countryside and outstanding historic points of interest. It's also rural and idyllic, you will have plenty of time to stop off along the A69 and explore this stunning part of northern England. This event is well supported by friends and family and therefore we are conscious of the extra traffic we generate on these quiet roads. We ask for your support in minimising the impact to the event by following these requests: 
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Do not attempt to access checkpoint locations, these are remote and vehicle access is not easy, you will block the route.
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Only interact with your participant at our Pit Stop locations.
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You must follow our marshals instructions when they try and park you at our Pit Stops, spaces are limited and you may need to wait or turn around to allow people to leave on single track roads. Pit Stops car parks may become full and you may be turned away.
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Do not travel to a pitstop until your runner is about to arrive, this way it gives most supporters the best chance to see their #ratracer.
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Plan your transport mindfully to reduce traffic and maximise car parking places. Think about car sharing where possible and not having multiple vehicles for one #ratracer.
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IMPORTANT – Pit Stop 2 and 3 have the most limited parking available which is why we recommend you choose one or the other to try and see your participant at. These 2 Pit Stops are just 6 miles apart in the course. There will be strict traffic management plans in operations at both of these locations, you must obey any instructions given by traffic marshals, fines will be in operation. If the location you are trying to access is full, you may be turned away. In 2025 spectators parked illegally in key locations causing access issues for local public transport and risking the 15 year relationship we have built with local landowners and the future of this event. Please ensure your spectators do not park on blind corners or on the side of the road at The Sill and Walltown Quarry.
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Everyone will be able to see their runner at Pit Stop 4 as this is in Hexham and there is plenty of local parking available. We ask for you to work with us in the first half of the route with the guidance above to limit traffic in rural areas. From Pit Stop 4 the route is much more urban with plenty of opportunities to see your runner in the latter half of the course.
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Please do not drive along the route, it isn't the fastest way to move between locations and adds traffic to the road shared by our participants. 
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Most importantly have a brilliant day out seeing some incredible efforts of all our #ratracers!
PIT STOP LOCATIONS
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PS1 Lanercost Priory CA8 2HQ 15 miles
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PS2 Walltown Quarry CA8 7HF 24 miles (limited parking)
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PS3 The Sill NE47 7AN 30 miles (limited parking)
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PS4 Hexham NE46 3SG 44 miles
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PS5 Newburn NE15 8ND 63 miles
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It is vital supporters read all of the above guidance on pitstops and parking!
FINISH LINE - BUS LANE​
The finish line is located on Baltic Square, see google pin HERE. ​
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There is a bus lane in operation along South Shore Road, it is signed but this can be easily missed in the dark or when you are tired from a long day of supporting. If you drive along this road to the finish line, you will be fined by the local council, Rat Race do not have any control over this.
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You can see the approximate location of where the bus lane comes into operation HERE. Please note Rat Race are unable to assist with any charges received by entering the bus lane, this is operated by the local authority.
GET IN TOUCH
If you have any outstanding questions, please do reach out to us on events@ratrace.com and a member of the team will get back to you as quickly as possible!​​​​
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See you on the start line #ratracers!