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Brecon Beacons 51k Ultramarathon
Take on the majesty of the Welsh mountains in this stunning 51km ultra marathon. Part of the RunThrough Trails 'Summit Series', the Brecon Beacons 51k is a tough, beautiful, and rewarding loop that takes you to the highest point in southern Britain.
Starting from the picturesque village of Talybont-on-Usk, this race offers a perfect mix of runnable reservoir trails, rugged climbs, and breathtaking ridge lines. It’s a serious test of endurance with over 2,000m of elevation gain, but the views from the top of Pen y Fan are worth every step of the climb.
Course
This isn't just a run in the park; it's a mountain adventure. The route begins at Henderson Hall in Talybont-on-Usk and heads out alongside the tranquil Talybont Reservoir. Don't get too comfortable on the flat, the work soon begins as you head up into the heart of the Beacons.
The crown jewel of the 51k route is the ascent of Pen y Fan. You will break away from the shorter course runners to tackle the iconic peak, standing at 886m. Once you've bagged the summit and taken in the panoramic views, you'll traverse the stunning ridges, heading via Bwlch Y Ddwyallt and the vast plateau of Waun Rydd.
The final leg offers a welcome change of pace, dropping down from the high fells to join the Monmouthshire Canal for a scenic run back into the event village to collect your medal.
If you are looking for an accessible yet challenging introduction to mountain ultras, the Brecon Beacons 51k is the one. The 12-hour cut-off is generous enough for strong hikers to complete the distance, while the varied terrain provides a fantastic playground for seasoned racers. It’s a proper day out in one of the UK’s most beautiful National Parks. For more info and registration details on the Brecon Beacons 51k ultra marathon, please visit the official race website.
