If you’re on the hunt for a well-organised, friendly, 10-mile race in Yorkshire, then the Snake Lane 10 in Pocklingtonshould be top of your list. As a local runner who’s taken part multiple times, I can confidently say it’s one of the best 10-mile races in the UK. Whether you’re training for a marathon or simply love a scenic road race, Snake Lane 10 ticks every box.
Set in the charming East Yorkshire town of Pocklington, just east of York, this race attracts runners from all over the UK and beyond. With a fantastic atmosphere, a picturesque course, and incredible local support, it’s no wonder that Snake Lane 10 entries sell out fast every year.
Why Snake Lane 10 is perfect for spring marathon training
One of the biggest reasons runners love the Snake Lane 10 is its timing. Held in late February, it’s the perfect event to test your fitness ahead of a spring marathon. The 10-mile distance is long enough to be a solid endurance test but short enough that you can really push the pace.
I’ve used this race as part of my marathon training plan before, running it at target marathon pace, and it’s always been a game-changer. You get that race-day adrenaline boost, a well-measured course, and the chance to test your kit and fuelling strategy in real conditions. Plus, having a race like Snake Lane 10 in the diary is a great motivation boost through those chilly winter training weeks.
A stunning course (Hockney painted it!)
The Snake Lane 10 course starts and finishes in Pocklington, looping through peaceful country lanes at the foot of the Yorkshire Wolds. It’s not completely flat, but the rolling hills keep things interesting without being punishing. Expect a mix of open fields, winding rural roads, and charming villages along the way.
If you’re a fan of art, you might recognise some of the landscape. The Yorkshire Wolds inspired none other than David Hockney, and it’s easy to see why. The scenery is breathtaking, especially on a crisp February morning.
What to expect on race day
The Snake Lane 10 is known for its friendly, welcoming atmosphere and smooth organisation. Here’s a rough idea of what to expect:
Miles 1–3: A fast, flat start to settle into your rhythm.
4–6: A few gentle undulations to keep things interesting.
7–9: Open countryside and a few rolling sections where you’ll need to dig in.
10: The final push back into Pocklington, where the crowd support is brilliant.
There are two water stations on the route, and plenty of marshals cheering you on and keeping everything running smoothly.
Post-race celebrations: Where to eat & drink in Pocklington
After crossing the finish line and collecting your well-earned medal, you’ll definitely deserve a treat. Pocklington has some great spots for a post-race meal or coffee:
- Whisk Café – Ideal for a post-run brunch. Their coffee is fantastic, and they do a mean stack of pancakes!
- The Market Tap – If you fancy something stronger, this cosy pub has a great selection of craft beers and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Sonali – If you’re in the mood for a celebratory curry, this Indian restaurant is one of the best in town.
If you’re up for stretching your legs, Pocklington also has some lovely walking routes. The canal is a great place for a gentle stroll (or a victory lap if you’re feeling energetic!).
Why this race is so special
What really makes the Snake Lane 10 stand out is the community support. Pocklington may be small, but the locals come out in force. Expect smiling faces, kids waving banners, and an infectious buzz that carries you all the way to the finish line.
It’s a race that celebrates everything great about local running events: friendly vibes, great organisation, and genuine enthusiasm from start to finish. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning runner, you’ll feel part of something special here.
How to Enter Snake Lane 10
The Snake Lane 10 Pocklington is one of the most popular 10-mile races in the UK and entries sell out within minutes each year. The best way to stay updates is to follow Pocklington Runners on Facebook or check their official website regularly.
PB Potential
Many runners return to Snake Lane 10 every year, chasing a new personal best. The course is quick, the organisation is spot on, and if the weather plays nice (which is always a February gamble), it’s definitely a PB-friendly race.
With winning times often under 60 minutes, the field includes some seriously speedy runners, but it’s also perfect for club runners, first-timers, and anyone chasing a goal.
Should You Run Snake Lane 10?
Absolutely! Whether you’re a local like me or travelling from further afield, the Snake Lane 10 is a gem of a race. It’s well-organised, scenic, and packed with community spirit. Plus, it’s a brilliant reason to visit Pocklington and explore this beautiful corner of East Yorkshire.
So, will I be signing up again next year? Without a doubt. And if you’re looking for a friendly, fast, and fun 10-mile race in Yorkshire, I can’t recommend Snake Lane 10 enough.
Get race-ready with Runna
I’ve been using Runna, the personalised training app, to help prepare for races like Snake Lane 10. It offers tailored 10-mile and marathon training plans, guided runs, and expert advice to help you train smarter.
If you fancy trying it out, you can get a 2-week free trial with my code RWR2 when you download the app.
