ESSENTIAL EVENT INFORMATION 2026
ULTRA TOUR OF ARRAN
WELCOME TO SCOTLAND.
WELCOME TO THE ULTRA TOUR OF ARRAN 2026!
​
The countdown is on to our first epic outing of the 2026 UK season and what better way to kick off the year than with one of our all time favourite adventure destinations, the Isle of Arran!
We can't wait to see you on the start line itching to experience this wee slice of Scottish paradise over our 2-day adventure together! From stunning coastal scenery, iconic deep Scottish glens and enchanting forests to the summit of Goat Fell, Arran has it all which is why we keep coming back for more!
We want to make sure you’re ‘ultra’ prepared to tackle this Scottish beast. This is our Essential Event Information document, which contains a comprehensive round up of everything you need to know. Grab a brew (or something a little stronger!) and read on to find the answers to all your questions ahead of ticking this mighty adventure off your running bucket list!
​
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: 11/02/2026
​
HANDY LINKS:
SKIP TO SECTION
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
-
Online Disclaimer MUST be completed before attending Tracker Collection, you can do this HERE.
-
​Tracker Collection: Friday 17th April between 1500 - 2100 at the Event Village: Ormidale Park, Brodick, Isle of Arran KA27 8BY. You must pick up your tracker between these times, there is no option to do so on the morning of the event. You MUST bring your running backpack to Tracker Collection so your tracker can be taped on when allocated.
-
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.
-
The Start: The event starts in the same location each day beside the beach at Fisherman’s Walk (next to Co-op) in Brodick. Please find a google pin to the start location HERE. ​This is a 1 minute walk from the Event Village and will be signed.
-
Start Time: Day 1 Start Time - 0830 / Day 2 Start Time - 0700
-
The Finish: Both days finish at the Event Village in Ormidale Park.
-
Kit Checks: There will be random kit checks at various pitstops and each day at the start, with a particular focus at Pitstop 2 (Day 2), where we will be checking kit before you head for the Goat Fell. You MUST carry all of the mandatory kit at ALL times.
-
Camping: Tickets are limited. Please make sure you purchase yours in advance via your RR account. You will receive a wristband with your bib number, you will need to wear this all weekend to access the campsite. The campsite is TENTS ONLY. Please do not turn up in your campervan, motorhome, caravan or tentbox as you will be turned away. Dogs are not allowed on the camp site.
-
Transfer: The deadline is 17th March 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.​​
-
Waymarking: This event is fully waymarked. Always follow waymarking over any GPX files.
-
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.
-
Route: We have strict arrangements and routings agreed with landowners and authorities, it is important that you follow all RR signage you see including instructions. If we ask you to close a gate behind you please do!
-
Current Route Damage: Due to recent winter damage to both the boardwalks south of Lamlash (Day 1) and on the Brodick foreshore (Day 2) the route will be amended around both of these areas to facilitate workarounds on both days. Therefore, at present the GPX files above will differ slightly to the route in April. Updated files and any distance changes will be communicated once our team visit the island in March to assess the damage and recce the route amendments.
-
Emergency Contact numbers and information for during the event only is printed on the reverse of your bib number.
-
Supporters are able to access the all of the pitstop locations (parking is not possible at all pitstops however) as well as the start and finish, see Supporter Guidance for more details.
TRANSPORT
GETTING TO THE ISLE OF ARRAN
To reach the Isle of Arran, you can take a ferry from Troon to Brodick (80 mins crossing time) or Ardrossan to Brodick (55 minutes crossing time)
​
​This means there are 2 key locations for this event:
​1) SCOTTISH MAINLAND, ACCESS TO THE ISLE OF ARRAN FERRY CROSSINGS TO BRODICK
Either:
​
A. The Ferry Terminal, Ardrossan, KA22 8BZ, OR
​
B. The Ferry Terminal, Troon, KA10 6HH
​
2) TRACKER COLLECTION AND EVENT VILLAGE
Ormidale Park, Brodick, Isle of Arran KA27 8BY
​
When planning your travel, make sure you’re looking at the correct timetable; these vary seasonally. The Summer timetable will be in operation over April and can be viewed HERE. Tickets can be booked via the Calmac website HERE.
We strongly recommend booking your ferry early, these can get busy and last minute availability is not a given. It is also our firm recommendation to avoid booking the last ferry of the day if you can to give yourself flexibility on any weather related cancellations etc.
​
​
​PARKING
There are 2 options for car parking:
​
-
Park on the mainland and travel on to Arran as a foot passenger - Car parking is available at both ferry terminals. Car parking charges apply. Please make sure to follow all guidance and be aware of restrictions which are displayed on signage. You can find further parking details under the Facilities section under each port on the Calmac website HERE.
​
-
Bring your car onto Arran - The return fare is reasonable: £42.40 return for a standard car and £10.60 per person return for each passenger inside. Please make use of the plentiful free parking along the Brodick promenade, do not fill the local car park behind the Co-op that is near the start.
​
Please note: There is no parking available at the Event Village, this is reserved for the event and medical team only. Brodick promenade parking is a stone's throw from the Event Village so please utilise these spaces.
​
PRE-EVENT SHUTTLE BUS TRANSFER
FROM THE FERRY TERMINAL TO EVENT VILLAGE AT ORMIDALE PARK
For those of you resting up before race days or have packed enough for a week away, we will have a free on demand shuttle bus providing transport from the ferry terminal to the Event Village in Ormidale Park.
Alternatively, it is an easy, flat 1km walk, passing many shops, cafes and amenities.
TRACKER COLLECTION
HOW TO GET THERE
Tracker Collection is on Friday 17th April between 1500 - 2100 at Ormidale Park, Brodick, Isle of Arran, KA27 8BY.
You must pick up your tracker between these times, there is no option to do so on the morning of the event. ​​
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 17th April from the information/help desk at Tracker Collection. You MUST bring your bib number to tracker collection.
​
2) Disclaimer - Your bib number will be scanned to show disclaimer completion and you will then receive your UTA Rat 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.​​
​
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.
​
IMPORTANT: Pre-ordered t-shirts must be collected at the event. If you do not collect your t-shirt, you will need to pay for this to be posted out to you after the event.
​
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.​
​
Start Line Ready!
​
REMINDER!
You MUST bring the following to Tracker Collection:
1) Bib Number
2) Running Pack
(Tracker will be taped directly to your pack)
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 UTA website and within this document closer to the event.
​
MANDATORY KIT LIST
Taking on this incredible 2-day ultramarathon is no small feat and you need to ensure you are fully prepared and kitted up for this epic!
The weather in the Scotland is notoriously unpredictable all year round, particularly on the islands. Clear skies can quickly turn into heavy rain, strong winds, and low visibility. Temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes and underfoot conditions on this route include slippery rock, bog, loose scree, beach, trail and road.
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 each day at the start, with a particular focus at Pitstop 2 (Day 2), where we will be checking kit before you head for Goat Fell. 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 each day at the start, with a particular focus at Pitstop 2 (Day 2), where we will be checking kit before you head for Goat Fell. 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 UTA26 to save 15% on full priced kit only, excludes event specific merchandise and bundles.
ROUTE
THE START
The event starts in the same location each day beside the beach at Fisherman’s Walk in Brodick.
​
Please find a google pin to the start location HERE
​
This is a 1 minute walk from the Event Village in Ormidale Park.
​
The start time will be:
-
Day 1 : 0830
-
Day 2: 0700
​
Due to the very close proximity of the race start to the Event Village, all water facilities will remain in Event Village and so there will be NO water for filling bottles at the start line. There are 2 public toilets at the start line.
​
FINISH LINE
The finish line for both days is in the Event Village at Ormidale Park.
​
ROUTE OVERVIEW
The routes of both days 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.
On Day 2 in particular, you are entering a truly mountainous environment which will require real care and attention to follow the markings and carefully choose the most appropriate route forward. This will be especially true if bad weather brings with it poor visibility. It is likely that you will be near to other runners for most of the day. Indeed, it can help to stay together at times. If you find yourself detached from the route and/or other runners on difficult terrain and poor visibility, then you should treat as priority getting back in touch with both route waymarking and runners, and not continuing onwards with no waymarking present. Therefore, we thoroughly recommend you keep your head up not only to see the signs and keep in touch with other runners but to also appreciate the magnificent views on Arran, nearby islands, and across both seas to the mainland of Scotland, which wraps around Arran!
​
​
IMPORTANT NOTE ON CURRENT ROUTE DAMAGE: Due to recent winter damage to both the boardwalks south of Lamlash (Day 1) and on the Brodick foreshore (Day 2) the route will be amended around both of these areas to facilitate workarounds on both days. Therefore, at present the GPX files above will differ slightly to the route in April. Updated files and any distance changes will be communicated once our team visit the island in March to assess the damage and recce the route amendments.
​
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.​​​​​​​​​
​PIT STOPS
You can view a breakdown of pitstops, distances, cut offs and provisions HERE. ​
​
The reason for only 2 pitstops on Day 2 is simply because of the terrain making areas inaccessible by vans and therefore a Pit Stops can’t be operated effectively in any other locations.
TOILETS
Those camping with us will have access to the Event Village toilets located in Ormidale Park which is our Registration venue.
Please see below on where to expect toilets along the course:
​
-
Event Village: Toilets available
-
Start line: Public toilets available
-
Day 1 Pit Stop 1: Toilets available
-
Day 1 Pit Stop 2: Toilets available
-
Day 1 Pit Stop 3: No toilets*
-
Day 2 Pit Stop 1: Toilets available
-
Day 2 Pit Stop 2: No toilets* (there is a public toilet just after the Pit Stop which our PS crew can direct you to).
​
*We will have pop up changing facilities for women to use at this pitstop with period products available.​
​
PERIOD PRODUCTS
We’ve got your back—period! In our ongoing drive to increase female participation and inclusivity in our adventures, you will find disposable sanitary bins in designated 'female only' toilets and a box stocked with period products at every location where we provide toilet facilities. Whether you planned ahead or got caught off guard, we’ve got you covered so you can focus on what is important, enjoying the adventure ahead. If you ever reach a pitstop and cannot see these products, please ask a member of the crew who will be able to point you in the right direction!​​
​
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.
​
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 our Event Village in Ormidale Park. The service costs £15 for 15 minutes, payable to the therapist directly via cash or card.
This will be open Saturday 1300-2000 and Sunday 1200-1900.
CUT OFF TIMES & LOCATIONS
Cut-off times are synonymous with events of this type and are essential for the safety management and risk assessment plans.
Cut- off times are applied to your departure time from the cut off location. Therefore, in your planning you should aim to arrive at a Pit Stop at least 15 mins before the cut-off time in order to allow you to access the facilities and leave the Pit Stop before the cut- off time.​ Below are the cut off times and locations: ​​
Day 1
-
Whiting Bay (Pit Stop 1) - 12:00
-
Kildonan (Pit Stop 2) - 13:30
-
Monamore FCS (Pit Stop 3) - 17:30
-
Brodick (Finish) - 20:30
Day 2
-
Lochranza (Pit Stop 1) - 11:30
-
N Glen Sannox (Pit Stop 2) - 14:30
-
The Saddle - 16:10
-
Brodick (Finish) - 19:00​
On day 2, the 2 Pit Stops have a cut-off but there is a third mountain cut-off at The Saddle. If you miss this final cut-off, you will not be allowed to tackle the final ascent of North Goat Fell and Goat Fell and instead be directed to descend down Glen Rosa and return to the finish in the Event Village. This route will of course be fully waymarked for you.
ACCOMODATION & FOOD
GENERAL CAMPING
For those choosing to camp with us, each member of your party will need a camping pass in order to access the campsite. You can purchase your camping pass via your RR account and will receive a wristband with your bib number. Wear this throughout the duration of the event to access the campsite.
​
The campsite is TENTS ONLY. Please do not turn up in your campervan, motorhome, caravan or tentbox as you will be turned away.
Dogs are not allowed on the camp site.
​
All tents should be pitched a minimum of 2m apart from each other. Please take care to ensure your chosen pitch location does not conflict with any other tent’s entrance or guy lines.
​
You will need to bring all of your own camping equipment and tent. Come prepared with warm clothes and a sleeping bag (or bags). It will be cold and you will be tired.
​
The following items are NOT permitted within the camping area:
-
Tents exceeding 4m x 4m unless accommodating more than 4 people.
-
Gazebos and tents for common areas are not permitted.
-
Open fires, BBQs, large ‘Calor Gas’ bottle style cooking units/heating units.
-
Stereos, or noise making devices. There is a noise curfew of midnight which you are asked to respect.
-
Glasses or glass bottles of any kind. With respect to the venue, any of the above items found onsite may be confiscated, and/or the owners may be required to leave the site.
​
SHOWERS
Showers are only available to those with a camping pass and are contained within the Ormidale Park building and are sports changing room style, with communal changing and shower areas.
LOCAL HOTELS
Some local providers do not open online booking until Jan/Feb for the summer months. We would recommend phoning or emailing them directly for availability if they are not showing any online via platforms like booking.com.
​
FOOD AND DRINK
There will be a caterer at the Event Village ready to keep you well fed and fuelled over the weekend, we will confirm the caterer nearer the time and opening times will likely be:​
​
-
Friday: 1500 – 2200
-
Saturday: 0600 – 0700 & 1200 – 2200
-
Sunday: 0500 – 0700 & 1200 – 2200
-
Monday: 0700 – 1000
​
For those who wish to eat something different there are plenty of pubs, restaurants, cafes and shops available in Brodick; all very quickly and easily accessible by foot.
​
PITSTOPS
You should plan to be self-sufficient for both days by carrying the food and drink that you require for the full day out. Our Pit Stops will then become additional support to your own plans. This method means you are exceptionally unlikely to find yourself out of food or water.
Here’s what you can expect at every Pit Stop:​
-
Drinks: Water, squash, hot drinks.
-
Salty options: Crisps, pretzels etc.
-
Sweet options: Fruit, jellies, cakes, biscuits etc.
We will endeavour to provide something suitable for all dietary requirements, however this cannot always be guaranteed. Please make sure that you have your own suitable options with you if you have allergies or dietary requirements.
SAFETY
RUNNING ON ROADS
If there is a roadside path or pavement, use this as first choice. Face oncoming traffic when on public roads and travel in single file
i.e. run on the right-hand side.
​
Music Players – These must have their volume controlled according to your environment. Headphones must be removed on live roads.​Please also be aware that if you cannot hear general voice levels you might miss instructions from marshals or other runners.
​
MOUNTAINOUS TERRAIN
Day 2 is highlighted with some of the most mountainous terrain of any Rat Race event. It is steep, rocky and exposed and will challenge everyone regardless of experience. We will support you with excellent waymarking and qualified mountain safety crew, however, you have a role to play in safely accessing this environment.
​
-
Slow down and take care over steep and rocky ground, ensuring good footing to prevent slips and falls.
​
-
Take swift action to counter weather changes. When up high, wind and rain will chill you quickly. Don’t push through it, throw on a jacket. It can come off just as quickly.
​
-
If you find yourself detached from the route and/or other runners on difficult terrain and poor visibility, then you should treat as priority getting back in touch with both route waymarking and runners, and not continuing onwards with no waymarking present.
Scrambling: There are some sections of the route where the terrain underfoot is more severe than your usual trail running. There will be occasional moments where you will use your hands on the rock. It’s not climbing.
​
It’s scrambling. You will be met at the most engaging sections by hill safety staff, who are there to guide and reassure you. At all times, follow the waymarked route and do not make alternative adventures. When on terrain that has loose rocks, be VERY careful not to disturb these and trundle them downwards.
​
Water Immersion: This event does include some shallow river crossings and some inter- tidal shore. Take your time when entering water. Place your feet, between rocks, with care. Boulder hopping is not advised.
​
​​ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIONS
The landscapes that we will pass through are exceptionally beautiful but they can also be fragile. It is each individual’s duty to do what we can to protect them. In all cases, everyone needs to follow the countryside code as a minimum: Respect. Protect. Enjoy.
RESPECT OTHER PEOPLE
-
Consider the local community and other people enjoying the outdoors.
-
Leave gates closed and property as you find it and follow paths unless wider access is available
-
Protect the natural environment:
-
Leave no trace of your visit and take your litter home
-
Plan ahead and be prepared
-
Follow advice and local signs
-
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
​
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
It is the responsibility of participants to ensure that their supporters are aware of the event information rather than relying on event staff on the day. Our marshals can be deployed in numerous locations across the route. The event crew members that supporters interact with can be timing staff, paid agency marshals, volunteers, paramedics, mountain safety staff, drivers, production crew etc. All are briefed for specific roles and some may not be local.
​
While all will aim to be as helpful and cheery as possible they may not have much general information about the event beyond their specific role. In short, they are not tour guides, just good folk doing their best.
​
Arran is a great place to visit. There are many things to do as well as support someone running in the event.
​
We ask that all supporters when following the event should take good care that their interaction is not a hazard to themselves, the participants nor any members of the public.
​
This is most pertinent when driving and parking. The island is small and as such so are roads and parking areas, there is no need to rush anywhere. Parking at all Pit Stops is very limited and for Day 1 Pit Stops 1 and 2, there is no parking available at all. So, in all cases when visiting Pit Stops please look for parking located away from the stops and walk in to meet people. This significantly reduces the risk to participants and allows race and emergency vehicles to have clear access to these core race venues.
​
Each participant will be carrying a GPS tracker which you will be able to follow live during each day. We will supply the link in due course. By following your participant online, you will be able to time your interactions and as such you will find you have plenty of time to enjoy the many places to visit on the island whilst also fulfilling your supporter duties.
VOLUNTEER
GOT A SUPPORTER WHO WOULD LOVE TO JOIN THE CREW?
We are currently on the look out for some final hi-vis heroes to volunteer over the UTA weekend in various roles and help build the incredible atmosphere #ratracers know and love!
​
As a volunteer you will receive:
​​
-
£50 cash travel contribution
-
£150 event credit or a Rat Race kit bundle
-
A crew Rat Rag
-
Access to hot drinks/snacks/food
-
A fun day out! ​
AVAILABLE SHIFTS
You can sign up to any available shift here and the Rat Race team will be in touch ahead of the event to answer any questions you may have and provide your briefing docs. You can also contact the volunteer team on staffing@ratrace.com if you have any questions ahead of signing up!
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!​​​​
​
See you on the start line #ratracers!