Join thousands at Bedfordshire’s MOST POPULAR weekend of running. This is more than just a running race. Conquer the Fun Run, Bedford 5k, Twilight 10K, Bedford Half Marathon or 20 Mile race in 2026! Then relax & take in the festival vibes, with live music, yummy food & drink, plus activities to keep the whole family entertained.

Get ready for an incredible weekend of running, celebration, and community spirit at the Bedford Running Festival! Taking place on the first weekend of September (Sat 5th & Sun 6th), this event is perfect for everyone—from first-time runners and families to club athletes and charity fundraising groups.

With a range of distances to choose from, including a Fun Run (where children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult with their own ticket) for the fun run or any other distance over the weekend. In order to receive a medal, each participants must have paid to take part in the fun run.

Take on the 5K, the atmospheric Twilight 10K, a Half Marathon, and a 20-Miler, there’s something for all abilities. Every finisher will be rewarded with a custom-designed medal and race goodies, and those who take on two or more distances across the weekend (excluding the Fun Run) will receive a special double finisher reward too! This year, our double finishers get to spin the wheel and take home the prize that they land on. With a wide range of prizes on offer, this is one not to be missed. Which two distances will you choose?

Distances

This years Festival will kick off with the 5K on Satuday 5th, starting at 3PM, followed by the Fun Run at 4:30PM. The Twilight 10K will round off the running on Saturday, starting at 5:30PM. Join us back in the festival village on Sunday 6th for the Half Marathon and 20 mile, both starting at 9:30AM!!

Follow the ATW BEDFORD RUNNING FESTIVAL on Facebook & Instagram to keep up with the latest event updates, announcements & race day coverage!

Purchase your event t-shirt now and collect from the festival village on Sat or Sun.

The Bedford Running Festival is so much more than just a race. Across the weekend, Russell Park will come alive with live music, entertainment, a buzzing festival village, a fully stocked bar, delicious street food, a funfair, and plenty of activities for the whole family. Whether you're running, cheering, or just soaking in the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

On Saturday 5th September from 6PM, we will have three live acts keeping you entertained. We will have Fearlessly Taylor singing all your favourite hits from Taylor Swift. Let Liam entertain you with smash hits from the one and only Robbie Williams and a show fit for a Queen.... Andy John will be singing his heart out to none other than Freddie Murcury!! An evening not to be missed! Everyone is welcome in the festival village and it's FREE to enter.

We’re also proud to support local charities, and you can get involved too. Runners have the opportunity to secure a free entry by signing up to run on behalf of one of our official charity partners—simply contact the charity of your choice and start fundraising for a great cause! Link To Change Living It Up Embrace Deaf Access Bedford Mind BLMK Road Victims Trust Hope Works & Friends For Life.

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Charity - Join us in making every stride count by raising money for our partner charity, Alzheimer's Research UK - your run will not only challenge your limits but also change lives, one step at a time, for a cure. Opportunities to donate and fundraise will appear at checkout.

ATW Transfer & Refund Policy

At ATW, we understand that sometimes plans change. While we do not offer refunds or transfers to another person, we provide a hassle-free event transfer option for those unable to attend their booked event. If you are unable to participate in your scheduled event for any reason—including injury, illness, pregnancy, bereavement, or other unforeseen circumstances—you can transfer your entry to any future ATW event. There is no proof required, we trust you!

Even better news, transfers can be made all the way up to 48 hours before your original event date.

ATW Community

At ATW we think of our participants as a community and we love to hear about the community's dreams and achievements.

If you'd like to share those dreams and achievements you can do so on any of our social media platforms. Equally if you'd like any advice about your upcoming event you will almost certainly find someone who can provide some guidance.

Links to all our social media platforms are at the bottom of the page, including to our ATW Chat Facebook group, which might be the most interactive platform if asking for help.

Organiser

ATW was established in 2011 by James Shipley. We have now become a national events company in the UK, specialising in Running, Triathlon, Duathlon, Aquathon, Cycling, Swimming and all permutation of swim-bike run events. With over 40,000 entries a year ATW has become a firm favourite amongst people who are determined to Dream, Believe and Achieve.

Description supplied by the event organiser.