Beecraigs Backyard Ultra
The last runner standing. A race with no finish line. A test of mental grit, physical endurance, and everything in between.
Whether you’re chasing your first ultra or chasing a national team slot, the format is simple:
Run one 4.167-mile loop every hour, on the hour, until only one runner remains.
This is the Beecraigs Backyard Ultra — Scotland’s most beautiful and brutal Backyard Ultra.
Where?
Beecraigs Country Park
Near Linlithgow, West Lothian, Scotland
Nestled in the Bathgate Hills, Beecraigs offers forest trails, wildlife, and wide open skies — and in April, everything from crisp spring mornings to dark, moody night loops.
EVENT INFOMATION PACK
Please download and read the event information pack. - 2026 Version
🔁 What Is a Backyard Ultra?
A Backyard Ultra strips racing back to its rawest form. No set distance. No easy way out.
At 11:00am sharp, everyone sets off together on a 4.167-mile loop — started, in true Beecraigs tradition, with the Race Director taking a bite of a banana 🍌 (if you know, you know).
Finish within the hour, and you earn the right to start the next lap. And the next. And the one after that.
Don't make it back in time? You're out. Not in the corral when the bell goes? You're out.
The race ends only when the last runner standing completes a solo lap. Everyone else is a DNF — but everyone goes home with a medal. 🏅
💡 What’s Included?
Your entry covers:
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Race participation and timing
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Parking for one vehicle
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Access to camping area (tent or small shelter 3x3m max)
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Hot water, tea & coffee provisions (bring your own reusable cup — this is non-negotiable! ♻️)
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Basic snacks for self-supported runners
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Toilets
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Live results and lap tracking
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Finisher's medal for every participant
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Trophy for the Last One Standing and the Assist
🌲 Course Info
Each lap is 4.167 miles (6.7056 km) — the official Backyard Ultra distance.
The route follows a mix of forest trail, gravel paths, and undulating woodland tracks with
approximately 150m elevation per loop.
It’s runnable, scenic, and just hilly enough to keep you honest.
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The loop is the same every hour.
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Route markings will be clear and consistent.
⛺ Camping + Parking
Camping Each runner has access to a tent or small shelter space in the camping zone. Please note that open flames and camping stoves are strictly prohibited on site — this is a Park health and safety requirement, no exceptions. If you need a hot meal, plan accordingly before or after the event.
A small area is available for solo runners without crew. If you need this space, please email us ahead of the event to register your need — spaces are limited.
Campervans If you're planning to bring a campervan, please let us know when registering. There are dedicated spaces in the car park close to the event field, and we need to plan these in advance.
Parking Each runner entry includes parking for one vehicle. Please be mindful when arranging crew and support access — parking on site is restricted and additional vehicles will need to use parking elsewhere in the park. Plan ahead and let your crew know!
🚻 Facilities
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Hot water, tea & coffee available for runners and crew
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You must bring your own reusable cup — no disposable cups will be provided ♻️
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Self-service snack table (water, squash, fruit and basic snacks) — for self-supported runners only
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All runners should bring their own food and fuel, especially if you're planning to go deep
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Covered rest marquee
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First aiders on site at all times
🎒 Kit List
Compulsory:
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Head torch, chest torch or waist torch
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Hi-vis or reflective clothing for after dark
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Race number (collected at registration)
Recommended:
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Weather-appropriate layers (April in Scotland can bring absolutely anything)
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Reusable cup (mandatory for hot drinks on site)
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Trail shoes
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Warm clothing for crew or downtime
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Your own food and fuel for the long haul
Ultimate Backyard Ultra Training Guide
🧡 Be Part of the Community
Whether you’re racing, crewing, or just curious — come join the Beecraigs Backyard Ultra Facebook Group. It’s where we’ll share updates, answer questions, and build the buzz together.
Important
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Runners may leave the course only to use the toilet.
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You must check out at Race HQ when you DNF or withdraw.
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The winner is the last person standing and must complete a lap solo
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If no one completes a solo lap, there is no winner
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All other runners are classified as DNF (and yes, you’ll get a shiny memento for it)
In Case of Cancellation
We’ll go ahead in almost all conditions.
The only exception is if the Park Ranger’s deems the site unsafe due to severe weather (e.g. sustained high winds).
For full details on cancellation, postponement and refund policy, please refer to our T&Cs.