Challenge Events
Do you love a hike, jog, run-on run, an ultra, cycling, swimming, tough mudders, obstacle courses or adrenaline boosters? If you are craving a challenge that pushes your limits, boosts your fitness, and creates real impact, there may be an event for you below. If nothing here quite hits the mark you’ll find more than 100 additional events waiting for you – check out our diary below.
Brighton Marathon
WHEN: 4th April 2027
The Brighton Marathon is one of the UK’s favourite 26.2-milers. With a stunning backdrop of the sea in one of the country’s most vibrant cities, the race gets bigger and better every year. Renowned for its buzzing atmosphere and roaring crowd support, the course winds through the city streets, finishing up on the spectacular Brighton seafront. The marathon is just one part of the Brighton Marathon Weekend, an event that also encompasses The Mini Mile Races, the BM10k and the Brighton Marathon Exhibition.
Edinburgh Marathon – Edinburgh Running Festival
WHEN: Sunday, 30th May, 2027
Come and be part of Scotland’s BIGGEST running festival!
This ever-growing festival of running is now a major event in the Scottish sporting calendar. Starting in Edinburgh, the course heads out through East Lothian offering stunning views and an unforgettable running experience.
The marathon route is one of the fastest in the UK making that elusive personal best a distinct possibility! Edinburgh Marathon joined the world’s elite road races in 2012 by becoming the first marathon in Scotland to be officially recognised by the IAAF, the athletics governing body. The IAAF bronze label puts the race among the top 75 in the world making it a pivotal part of the sporting calendar for runners.
The full weekend of events attracts around 30,000 runners, with thousands more lining the course to support. There are 9 races on offer over two days including the marathon, half marathon, team relay, 10k, 5k and junior races. There really is something for everyone, so why not make the most of the Bank Holiday weekend.
Manchester Marathon
WHEN: 18th April, 2027
The adidas Manchester Marathon, the UK’s second largest marathon and one of Europe’s largest is an iconic event drawing participants from all over the world to the vibrant streets of Greater Manchester.
We pride ourselves in welcoming all to take on our 26.2 mile challenge, from some superb elite runners, to those who thought completing a marathon would never be possible. Many regular runners find this the ideal event to get a personal best time, whilst everybody finds the incredible Mancunian support throughout the course unforgettable.
Great South Run
WHEN: Sunday, 18th October, 2026
The AJ Bell Great South Run is probably the world’s favourite 10-miler, with inspiring history, salty air and glorious sea views guaranteed. Portsmouth’s supporters will keep your spirits and motivation up the whole way round, with blaring music, cheers, high fives, fist bumps all part of the incredible AJ Bell Great South Run experience. Plus, there’s a medal, exclusive finisher t-shirt and bragging rights at the finish line. There’s a reason 99% of runners say they’d recommend it to a friend – lots of reasons, in fact.
Tough Mudder – Midlands 5K
WHEN: July 4-5th 2026
The ultimate obstacle course challenge now has 12+ obstacles over a 5 Kilometre run.
With no competition and no timing, it’s just you, your teammates and muddy strangers working together to conquer the course and earn the world-famous orange headband.
Included in ticket
- Finishers Medal
- Finisher Shirt
- Finishers Headband
- Free Parking
The Peak District Challenge – Copper – 25k
WHEN: Saturday, 19th September, 2026
Our basecamp hub in idyllic Bakewell will welcome over 3,000 adventurers who will test themselves in the fabulous Peak District National Park. There’s a full range of camping options, car parking, and extensive hospitality & welfare services across the weekend – with a full 100km Challenge which takes a tough & varied figure of 8 route through Derbyshire’s finest scenery. You’ll get full support all the way, and with 3/4, half, quarter & 10 mile distance options also which pass Chatsworth House – there’s a Peak District Ultra Challenge for everyone!
Chase The Moon Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Halloween 10K
WHEN: Wednesday, 28th October, 2026
Come and run a chip timed 5k or 10k through the incredible grounds of London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. The RunThrough Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park 5k & 10k event is a great opportunity for a fun morning out with a unique themed medal waiting for you at the finish!
Amsterdam Half Marathon
WHEN: Sunday, 18th October, 2026
Join over 18,500 marathon runners who take in the major sites of one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, Amsterdam.
The flat and fast course is packed with scenery as you run through Vondelpark & Rijksmuseum, following the Amsel River, you will be sure to see many canals and windmills but whatever you do, do not stop at a pancake house until the end of the race!
The Amsterdam half marathon is a perfect destination marathon for charity runners looking for a challenge in a city vibrant with culture.
GetPRO Bath Half
WHEN: Sunday, 14th March, 2027
Take part in one of the UK’s most established road races – the Bath Half Marathon! Join 15,000 other runners on the flat, picturesque course and enjoy the electric atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a total novice – this event is perfect for everyone.
How we support you?
We are happy to offer fundraising advice, including guidance on setting up your fundraising page and tips on promoting it to encourage sponsorship from friends, family, and colleagues.
Our logo can be provided for use on your fundraising materials or running vest.
We may be able to offer a leaflet design service for your own events.
Please note that, due to limited resources, we are unable to supply running vests or T-shirts. These can be purchased via our online shop: [insert link].
Through our partner, Run for Charity, we can provide access to a wide range of local, national, and international events. For selected events, we offer reduced entry fees in return for a minimum sponsorship commitment.
Participation in any activity in aid of STEF is at your own risk. We strongly encourage you to prepare thoroughly and recommend seeking medical advice before undertaking any extreme challenge.
Ts&Cs – All events listed on our challenge event page are organised by reputable third-party providers and not directly by STEF UK. STEF UK accepts no responsibility for the organisation or management of these events. Reservation fees managed by STEF UK are non-refundable. STEF UK cannot be held liable for any cancellation, injury, loss, or dispute arising from participation in these activities.
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