Castle Trails: Sandhurst to Bodiam Led by Ema of Trailhurst Runners FREE TO ATTEND

Sandhurst to Bodiam Castle Community Trail Run

Join us for a free-to-attend Trail-Run Explorers community run through the rolling countryside around Sandhurst and the beautiful River Rother valley.

This circular route covers approximately 10.25 km / 6.4 miles, with around 163 metres / 535 feet of elevation. It combines quiet rural paths, open countryside, flatter valley trails and a few short climbs, with the magnificent Bodiam Castle providing the perfect halfway highlight.

The GPX route will be shared with everyone ahead of the event, giving you two ways to enjoy the morning.

You can join Ema, founder of Trailhurst Runners, for a relaxed and sociable guided run. Ema will lead the group at an inclusive pace, regroup regularly and make sure nobody is left behind. Walking the steeper climbs is absolutely fine—this is a community run, not a race.

Alternatively, you can meet everyone at the start and choose to complete the route independently at your own pace. This option may suit those who would prefer to run faster, take their time or enjoy the route within their own smaller group.

Whichever option you choose, we will all begin from the same meeting point and enjoy the shared atmosphere of a Trail-Run Explorers community event.

Meeting point and parking

Please park considerately around Back Road and meet near the junction of Back Road and Bodiam Road.

Parking is limited and shared with local residents, so please avoid blocking driveways, gateways or access points. Car sharing is encouraged wherever possible.

Important insurance information

England Athletics insurance applies to runners who remain with Ema as part of the organised and led group.

Those choosing to leave the guided group and follow the GPX independently will be considered to be completing the route under their own direction and responsibility. The England Athletics cover attached to the led run will therefore no longer apply.

Event details

Cost: Free

Distance: Approximately 10.25 km / 6.4 miles

Elevation: Approximately 163 m / 535 ft

Meeting point: Near the junction of Back Road and Bodiam Road

Parking: Around Back Road, parked safely and considerately

Terrain: Rural trails, field paths, tracks and undulating countryside

Guided option: Run with Ema at a relaxed, social pace with regular regrouping

Independent option: Follow the supplied GPX at your own pace

Suitable for: Runners comfortable completing approximately 10 km on mixed and uneven terrain

Expect mud, grass, uneven ground and potentially wet sections around the valley, particularly following periods of rain. Trail shoes are strongly recommended.

Come along, meet other local runners and enjoy a brilliant countryside route with one of Sussex’s most impressive landmarks along the way.