Looking for a running challenge in Shropshire this November? Mad Jack's 5 returns to Attingham Park near Shrewsbury on Saturday 7 November 2026, promising five miles of muddy trails, woodland paths, natural obstacles and its famous water crossing!
Now in its 18th year, this popular Shropshire trail running event is organised by Shrewsbury Athletic Club in partnership with the National Trust and attracts runners looking for something a little different from a traditional road race.
Set within the beautiful grounds of Attingham Park, Mad Jack's 5 combines picturesque countryside with a challenging off-road course and a memorable finish.
The approximately five-mile route takes runners through the varied landscape of Attingham Park, including open pastureland, wooded areas and sections of wet, marshy ground.
Although the course is relatively flat, the terrain offers plenty of challenges, with uneven surfaces, fallen trees, mud and potentially slippery conditions underfoot.
Runners may also spot some of the estate's resident wildlife, including deer, while making their way around the course.
The route is fully marked and marshalled, helping participants navigate the different sections safely.
One of the most memorable features of Mad Jack's 5 is the water crossing near the finish line.
Just when runners think they've completed the toughest part of the race, they face Mad Jack's Pond, where they must run or wade through cold, muddy water that can be between 0.5 and 1 metre deep.
It's a feature that has become synonymous with the event and makes for a particularly entertaining finish for runners and spectators alike!
Mad Jack's 5 is open to runners aged 16 years and over on race day.
The race starts at 10.30am, with registration taking place between 8.30am and 10am. The start line is approximately five minutes' walk from the registration area.
Entry fees are:
£14 for affiliated runners, plus booking fee
£16 for unaffiliated runners, plus booking fee
There is a maximum entry limit of 500 runners, and advance online registration closes at 4pm on Friday 6 November 2026.
Entries can be made through the official race registration website.
As this is an off-road event in November, runners should be prepared for wet, muddy and potentially cold conditions.
Trail running shoes with good grip are strongly recommended, as ordinary road running shoes may not provide sufficient traction on the marshy sections or through the pond.
Participants should also bring warm, dry clothing to change into after the race, particularly following the water crossing.
Race numbers must be securely attached to the front of runners' clothing.
Mad Jack's 5 is also a great opportunity for friends and family to support runners in the surroundings of one of Shropshire's best-known National Trust estates.
Spectators arriving before 10.30am can enter free of charge.
Attingham Park also offers cafés serving refreshments, a children's play area and extensive parkland for visitors to explore.
Runners will receive water and a snack at the finish.
Date: Saturday 7 November 2026
Time: 10.30am race start
Registration: 8.30am–10am
Location: National Trust Attingham Park, Atcham, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY4 4TP
Distance: Approximately 5 miles
Terrain: Off-road, pastureland, woodland, marshy ground and water crossing
Minimum Age: 16 years
Entry: £14 affiliated / £16 unaffiliated, plus booking fee
Organisers: Shrewsbury Athletic Club and the National Trust
Advance Entry Deadline: Friday 6 November 2026 at 4pm
Whether you're an experienced trail runner or looking to try something different, Mad Jack's 5 offers a distinctive running challenge in the Shropshire countryside.
Just remember to bring a change of clothes – you're almost guaranteed to get wet!