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?

If you enter before midnight on Sunday 12 July we will send a race pack to the address you have provided us with. You should receive this by Wednesday 29 July. If you entered after this date, you will need to collect your race pack from Up & Running on High Row – we will let you know when these are available. If you are unable to collect your race pack, you can get this from the race desk on the day of run.

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.

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.

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?

If you entered after Sunday 12 July, you need to collect your race pack from Up & Running on High Row – we will let you know when these are available. If you are unable to collect your race pack, you can get this from the race desk on the day of run. Please arrive one hour before the race to allow yourself time to collect and prepare for the run.

If you entered before Sunday 12 July and have not received your race pack by Wednesday 29 July - email. eventsteam@darlington.gov.uk

What do I do if my race pack has been sent to an old address?

We can provide you with a replacement number and timing chip for £5 - email eventsteam@darlington.gov.uk or visit the race desk on the day.

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 timing chip replacement.

Where can I collect my race pack on the day?

You must collect your race pack including you race number, from the race desk in the Market Square at least one hour before the start of the race

What time does the race start?

To be confirmed - please keep an eye on the website, social media and event emails in the run up to the race for information.

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 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 on the council website.

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.

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 own 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.