There’s an exciting new event right on my doorstep—the Yorkshire Wolds Ultra! Hosted by Ultra Trails, this impressive 54 km circular route starts and ends on the edge of Pocklington. This event takes you through some of the less-trodden trails in the Yorkshire Wolds, offering a blend of beautiful hidden valleys with breathtaking views and expansive fields dotted with wild grass meadows. The undulating course is not for the faint-hearted, featuring over 4,300 ft of elevation. It’s packed with challenging ascents that keep the adrenaline pumping from start to finish.
If you want to appreciate the Wolds and all their natural beauty, this is absolutely the way to do it.
Race Day Insights: Yorkshire Wolds Ultra
When my alarm went off at 5:30 am on Saturday the thought of a long slog around the countryside seemed less than appealing. But I dragged myself out of bed, ready to take on the challenge. The weather looked great (despite storms being forecast all week), and I’m the kind of person who would rather try and fail than never try at all.
Registration began at 6:30 am, where we went through the mandatory kit check and collected our race numbers. There was a palpable energy in the air, a mixture of excitement and nerves shared by all participants. After a brief warm-up and socializing, it was time for the mass walk to the start line. Just after 8 am, we were off, and the thrill of the race kicked in.
Starting Strong: What to Expect in the Early Miles of the Yorkshire Wolds Ultra
The beginning of the race took us through crowded, muddy woods and wide gravel paths before transitioning into breathtaking wheat fields. As we climbed uphill into the wooded areas, the views of patchwork fields came alive, and I felt an exhilarating rush of joy as we descended towards Bishop Wilton. Despite facing some tough climbs, I made it to the first checkpoint without much difficulty. The friendly faces warmly welcoming us at each checkpoint were a highlight, making it feel like a community event. Additionally, the food and fuel at the aid stations were thoughtfully catered to include vegan and gluten-free options, ensuring inclusivity for as many participants as possible.
Conquering Mental Challenges: Staying Focused During the Yorkshire Wolds Ultra
The route took us through charming villages such as Bishop Wilton, Givendale, Kirby Underdale, Thixendale, and Fridaythorpe, with more challenging climbs, stunning views, and secluded valleys to explore. My friend had to drop out just before checkpoint two, so I was running solo just focussing on getting to the next checkpoint.
Halfway between the final checkpoint and the finish, the heavens opened, and this was where it got me mentally. But these things are meant to be a challenge, so I pushed onwards and upwards to the end. And I mean upwards because we were still facing elevation!
The last part of the course includes trails around Millington and a detour into Nettle Dale (and yes, it lives up to its name).
Crossing the Finish Line: Celebrating Achievements at the Yorkshire Wolds Ultra
I crossed the finish line, tired and chafed, and received a lovely wooden medal for my efforts. There is also a wildflower seed medal and an option to choose a t-shirt if you prefer.
Stats from the Garmin: 35.2 miles / and just over 4300ft elevation.
Inclusivity and Community: How Ultra Trails Supports Women in Ultra Running
I really cannot say enough good things about Ultra Trails. They aim to open up their events to as many people as possible and actively encourage women to take part. They have committed to following SheRACES guidelines. I was good to see a lot of women on the start line. What also stood out to me was the age diversity in the field. Among the female entrants alone, there were 20 under 40 and 60 over 40. I thought this was fantastic.
The cut-off was also a generous 12 hours, ensuring as many people as possible had a chance to complete the course. And because it’s summer, you’ll finish in daylight.
If you are considering entering your first ultra, Ultra Trails events are a great choice. The Yorkshire Wolds Ultra was a challenging but rewarding race, and the team were incredible!
Post-Race: Exploring Pocklington and the Yorkshire Wolds
After crossing the finish line, the adventure doesn’t have to end there! The area around Pocklington is rich with history, charm, and stunning landscapes that are perfect for unwinding after a grueling race.
Visit Pocklington Canal Take a leisurely stroll along the Pocklington Canal, a beautiful area to relax and recover. The scenic route offers lovely views and the opportunity to spot local wildlife. The canal path is ideal for a gentle walk or even a light jog if you’re feeling up to it!
Explore the Market Town Pocklington itself is a quaint market town with plenty of cafes and shops to explore. Treat yourself to a post-race meal at one of the local eateries, I recommend Whisk, known for its delicious brunches and homemade cakes. They also do a pretty decent flat white.
Discover Burnby Hall Gardens If you’re up for some exploration, visit the Burnby Hall Gardens. These beautiful gardens are home to a stunning collection of water lilies, a quaint tea room, and lovely walking paths—perfect for a peaceful stroll to soothe tired legs.
Hike Nearby Trails For those still in the mood for adventure, there are plenty of hiking trails in the nearby Yorkshire Wolds. The Wolds Way offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and is ideal for those looking to extend their outdoor experience.
Local Pubs and Craft Beer Lastly, don’t forget to celebrate your achievement at one of Pocklington’s local pubs, such as The Feathers or The Rose and Crown. Both serve a selection of craft beers and hearty meals—perfect for refueling after your ultra run!
Ultra Trails: Final Thoughts
The Yorkshire Wolds Ultra is not just a race; it’s an experience filled with beautiful landscapes, a supportive community, and a chance to challenge yourself in the stunning Yorkshire countryside. So lace up your shoes, hit the trails, and discover the beauty of the Yorkshire Wolds for yourself!