Runners and theme park fans alike have something exciting to look forward to this spring as the Drayton Manor 5K & 10K returns on Sunday 12 April 2026. Organised by RunThrough, this unique event gives participants the rare chance to run through one of the UK’s best-known theme parks before enjoying the rides once the race is finished.
Combining fitness, charity fundraising and theme park thrills, the event promises to be one of the most unusual running experiences in the UK.
A Unique Race Inside Drayton Manor Theme Park
Unlike traditional road races, the Drayton Manor 5K & 10K takes place inside the grounds of Drayton Manor Resort in Tamworth. Runners will follow a closed-road route through the park, passing some of its most famous attractions along the way.
Participants can expect to run past major rides and areas such as:
- Accelerator
- The Wave
- Thomas Land
- Drayton Manor Zoo
- Gold Rush
This makes the event especially appealing to theme park enthusiasts who want to experience the resort in a completely different way.
Event Date, Start Times and Distances
The race takes place on Sunday 12 April 2026, with both distances starting at the same time.
Race schedule
- 5K – 9:00 AM
- 10K – 9:00 AM
- Event finish – around 10:30 AM
The course is run on tarmac paths around the resort, with relatively low elevation gain, making it suitable for runners of all levels. The 5K is one lap, while the 10K covers two laps of the route.
Supporting a Good Cause
The 2026 race supports Newlife – The Charity for Disabled Children, which provides specialist equipment to disabled and terminally ill children across the UK.
There are over a million children living with disabilities in the UK, and organisations like Newlife help provide essential equipment and support to families who need it most.
Many runners also take part through charity fundraising places, raising additional funds while completing the event.
Spectator Information
Friends and family can also attend to cheer runners on. Spectator tickets are available, allowing supporters to enjoy the atmosphere and later explore the theme park as well.
Free parking is available on site, although organisers advise arriving early due to expected queues on race morning.
How to Enter
Entries for the Drayton Manor 5K & 10K 2026 are now open, with places available for both distances. Prices typically start at around £38 for the race entry, with spectator tickets also available.
Due to the popularity of RunThrough events, spaces can fill up quickly, so runners are encouraged to register early.
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