Darlington 10k and running events

Darlington 10k, 5k, Junior 3k and Family Fun Run

Sunday 2 August

Market square

Please note all runs are online advance entry only - sign up using the links below:

All entries open on Friday 22 January at 11:59pm.

Cash and voucher prizes are available please see the FAQS.

Google Map showing 10k Route Map

Map Options

Lap1
Lap2

5k Route Map

Race Day Frequently Asked Questions

What prizes are available?

Please visit the race day prizes page to find full details.

Will I get a medal?

All those who complete the Darlington 10k in 2026 will receive a medal and t-shirt.

If you are taking part in the Darlington 5k, all those who complete the 5k will receive a medal only.

If you are taking part in the Junior 3k, all those who complete will receive a t-shirt.

What happens after I sign up for the 10k?

There are some significant changes to race pack collections. Further details are below!

What is in your race pack?

Your race pack contains your race number which you will need to wear on your front during the race. A timing chip is attached to the back of your race number which will be detected at the start and finish line of the race and will record your time.

How do I get my race pack?

We have reviewed our race pack distribution process and have decided to move to a collection-only approach.

Race packs will be available to collect from our partner, Up & Running, who have kindly provided their High Row store as the designated collection point.

To give runners more flexibility, collection will open earlier than usual. Each runner will receive an email and text message confirming when their race pack is ready for collection.

Specific collection dates and times will be communicated in advance, during which runners can collect their race pack from the Up & Running store.

If you are unable to collect your race pack in advance, it can be collected from the race desk on the day. Please ensure you arrive at least two hours before the race start to allow sufficient time to collect your pack and prepare.

What do I do with my race number?

You must wear the number during the race. Attach this to the front of your torso pinned in all four corners - it needs to be clearly visible.

Please do not fold, cut or mutilate it in any way as this may cause the timing tag (chip) attached to the back to stop working. Do not put any pins through the tag.

The tag is detected when you cross the mats at both the start and the finish. Do not run around outside of the mat area or your time will not be recorded. The tags are disposable, so you do not have to return them if you do not take part.

Important: Please make sure to fill in the personal details section on the rear of your race number. This helps medical staff, if you need first aid or medical treatment.

Why haven’t I received my race pack?

You need to collect it from Up & Running. If your race pack isn’t there for whatever reason, please contact eventsteam@darlington.gov.uk. If you are unable to collect your race pack, you can get this from the race desk on the day of run. Please arrive two hours before the race to allow yourself time to collect and prepare for the run.

What do I do on the day if I forget my race number?

On the day, please go to the race desk located in the Market Square. One of the team will check your entry and issue you with an alternative race number. There will be a £5 (cash) charge for new replacement numbers.

What time does the race start?

The race starts at 10:30am.

Will there be any distancing at the start?

Runners will start the race in waves. You will receive an email at least 4 days before the run confirming your allocation.

Does the course go on public roads with traffic?

The course is on public roads.

These roads will be closed for the duration of the run.

Please note:

You must keep to the left side of the carriageway (road) to allow blue light emergency vehicles to pass. Blue light emergency vehicles access takes priority over the run. On the second lap you’ll be instructed to move to the right side of the carriageway (road) on Coniscliffe Road only. There is a new cycle lane on a section of Woodlands Road with a lip curb - runners should take caution as they leave Stanhope Road. Do not go onto the cycle path at any point.

How will I know which way to go?

There will be course signage and marshals at all key junctions to ensure you remain on course.

Will there be any refreshments?

There are water bottles available at our designated water stations along the route and at the finish line.

Can I wear headphones?

Bone conducting headphones are permitted in the Darlington 10K, the new 5K and Junior 3k run.

In ear or over the ear headphones are not permitted.

Emergency vehicles can access our route at any time therefore we need to be able to communicate with everyone involved.

Can I run with my dog or run buggy?

We don’t allow pets or run buggies as part of the 10k, 5k or junior 3k. However, pushchairs are welcome on the family fun run.

Is there somewhere I can park my car?

Information about local car parking is available here.

Please note that Abbots Yard and East Row car parks will not be available on the day.

Charges apply Monday to Sunday in all council car parks and on street pay and display locations, please refer to machine/board for tariffs before getting a ticket.

Is there somewhere I can leave my luggage?

There will be a room available in the Dolphin Centre for luggage. Follow the signage directing you to the room.

Are there any toilets?

We have portable toilets in the Market Square vicinity. There are additional toilets available at the Indoor Market Hall on East Row, adjacent to the market square and the Dolphin Centre.

Will any other activities available?

There will be music on stage in the Market Square after the winners presentation.

Is there anywhere to get food or drink after the race (or during for spectators)?

Yes - there is a fantastic range of local establishments across the town centre, including around the Market Square hub. Find inspiration for your perfect post-race meal here.

I’m injured/can’t run, what should I do?

Please contact eventsteam@darlington.gov.uk

You can transfer your race number to someone by going to the site where you registered. https://theentrypoint.co.uk/events/the-darlington-10k-2026-dM3alenZ0PeXxEp. Here you will find instructions on how to transfer correctly.

Please do not just pass your race number to someone else to wear – this potentially places them at medical risk as we will not have the correct medical information or emergency contact details for them should they require emergency care or treatment. The entry fee is non-transferable and non-refundable, however there could be the possibility of deferring.

Do you have first aid at the event?

We have full comprehensive medical cover for this event. First aid responders are along the route. Marshals will be on the course looking for signs of anyone in distress. If you are asked to stop, please do so - it is in your best interest. If you come across anyone injured or in distress, please report it to the nearest marshal. First aid staff on the route are in contact with ambulance personnel and race doctors who are located in the centre of town and along the race route.

What is the route for the Junior 3k?

Please click here to view the route for the 3k

This year's Darlington 10k and race event day is brought to you by Darlington Borough Council.