The 4 Castles Challenge was a stand-out event in the Kent running calendar, and it's back in 2025. It's a half marathon along the coastline in East Kent. Starting at Deal Pier and first visiting Sandown Castle on the edge of the town of Deal, then the route goes past Deal Castle and onto and through the grounds at Walmer Castle, before finishing at the iconic Dover Castle. This really is a must-do event that is truly unique and definitely one to tell all your friends about! There will of course be a really great unique medal and in addition a finishers t-shirt.

About

This is a unique event taking in the amazing coast and countryside of East Kent. The event starts at Deal Pier and your first castle is the ruins and remains of Sandown Castle on the edge of Deal, a former artillery fort built by Henry VIII in the 16^th Century.

From there it’s along the seafront to Deal Castle and your first (very early) refreshment station! Stop and take a selfie by this castle considered to be one of the finest Tudor artillery forts (or just run on by!!).

The third Castle on the route is not too far away – Walmer Castle. Originally a Tudor fortress, Walmer Castle evolved into a stately home for the Lords Warden of the Cinque Ports, and became the residence of famous names from the Duke of Wellington to Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. The route goes right alongside this castle. Another great selfie-spot!

The next stage takes you to the world famous White Cliffs. From here, at some points, you will be able to see for miles out to sea (fingers crossed for the weather!). You will run near to South Foreland Lighthouse.

The final stage continues across to Dover Castle. An iconic landmark perched on the cliffs above Dover, built in the 12^th Century by Henry II. Truly a unique finish to any running event, with a lap around some of the grounds before you cross the line.

The Event HQ is split between two locations. The start and registration is at Deal Pier. There is parking available nearby to the start. The finish is at Dover Castle. If you have friends or family meeting you at Dover Castle we will have parking available here too. There will also be coach transfers regularly at the finish if you need to get back to the start point.

More info

We will be providing a live feed onto our website for results - so cross the line and your result goes live!

There are prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd male and female,1st Male and Female VET40, 50 and 60.

Facilities at venue:
Toilets and changing facilities. Full refreshments available nearby and at the finish in Dover Castle.

Entry fee:
Advanced entries: £32 affiliated club members, £34 unaffiliated
On-the-day (subject to space): NO ENTRIES ON THE DAY

Under UK Athletics rules the minimum age for this race is 17 years on the day.

For great tips about nutrition, training and hydration for training and on race day we recommend visiting https://www.verywellfit.com/hydration-and-running-2911541.

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