With our races we aim to showcase some of our region's best scenery; we've shown you some stunning coastlines, some sweeping panoramas from the hills and some quaint rural locations off the beaten track, but there can't have been many more spectacular finishes to any UK ultra than in the Conquest of Avalon.
Climb to the top of Glastonbury Tor for an astonishing 360 degree view, then descend through the quirky town to the majestic ruins of Glastonbury Abbey, claimed for a long time as England's oldest shrine, and thought to be the last resting place of King Arthur. There will be a medieval theme at the finish - we would say it will be a once in a lifetime experience but you may find you want to come back and conquer Avalon again and again
There's a 30 or a 50 mile run to choose from, all of which are steeped in history and showcase the heart of the south-west; these routes display a side of the region that remains undiscovered by many
So.....
50 Miler
The 50 miler starts at the wonderful Ham Hill Country Park, and you will follow the Leland Trail all the way to Alfred's Tower. The route was based on royal librarian John Leland's journey in the 16th century to discover which artefacts were held in different churches and priories throughout Somerset. He was sent by Henry VIII, who was planning to take the artefacts for himself and drive out the monks. In 1539 Henry VIII took Glastonbury Abbey's resources and Abbott Whiting was executed along with his two brothers. The others monks were forced to leave and the Abbey was sold, much of the stone being taken by local people to build houses, and the causeway to Wells. Along the Leland Trail you will pass the 16th century mansion at Montacute House, the Iron Age hill fort at Cadbury Castle, and through Wales....yes, really....but not that one! From the impressive Alfred's Tower you will take a different route back to Bruton, where you will follow the remainder of the 70 mile route to Glastonbury
30 Miler
For the 30 miler you will follow the final 30 miles of the 50 mile route from Castle Cary to Glastonbury. This will feature Alfred's Tower along with a scintillating slideshow of south-west scenery, and of course that same finish. There is free entry to the Abbey for up to two friends/family members - each additional supporter will have to pay to enter the Abbey unless it is after 8pm. You will have free reign of the grounds when you finish : )
Whichever route you take you will get the same reception at the finish, the choice is yours.....