Review by Run Finder Ben
Where: Saltford, between Bristol & Bath
When: December (this review is from the 2024 race)
Distance: Kids fun run, 5k & 5miles
Terrain: Mainly tarmac but starts and ends on grass
Organiser: Local community in Saltford
This was A LOT of fun. I’m not sure how many people take part, but seeing hundreds of Santas all in field on a Sunday morning is wonderful spectacle.
Kids can take part in a short run around the playing field, and then runners over 12 can take part in the 5k or 5 mile route. The race starts and ends on grass, but the rest is on tarmac roads and paths around Saltford and Keynsham.
It’s not a course for a PB (and that’s not really the point of this event) as there’s a couple of well-marshalled road crossings. Parking was pretty easy, just up a side road, less than a 10min walk to the start
You can choose to receive a Santa suit with your entry, which you pick up in advance of the event. You will need to be prepared to make a few alterations. I’m almost 6 foot tall and the suit was fine, but for some of the smaller runners from my club, there was talk of whether a kids outfit would have been a better choice.
Overall, this is just a fantastic community event. There were people standing outside their houses cheering everyone on and the route is pretty scenic, taking in some lovely countryside views. It’s not totally flat, but the hills are more like inclines, and if you’re running for fun then it should be no problem at all.
This race comes HIGHLY recommended!
