Whether you’re visiting the Festival for the first time in 2025, or a frequent visitor, here are some answers to common questions our organising committee receive to help you get the most out of your Festival weekend.
WHAT IS THE RACE SCHEDULE FOR 2025?
Friday 18 April
10k Road Race – Port Erin
7pm combined start
Saturday 19 April
Peel Hill Race – Peel
Men 14:15, Women 15:15 start
Sunday 20 April
5k Road Race – Douglas Promenade.
Women 10:30, Men 11:20 start
Prize Presentation – Douglas (Location TBC)
From 7pm
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY FEES PER ATHLETE?
£45 – University OR England Athletics Club Affiliated
£57 – Unattached
Recommended – Full Festival Entry Package – This gives you entry to all three races, a festival t-shirt, coach transport to and from the races in Port Erin and Peel, and a ticket to the prize presentation.
Races can also be entered individually!
IS THERE AN ENTRY STANDARD?
The festival is open to all and we welcome runners of all abilities. Due to fading light, we enforce a 5K cut-off time of 38 minutes during Good Friday’s 10K race.
IS THERE PRIZE MONEY?
Yes! In recent years the prize fund has averaged between £4000 and £5000, split even between male and female categories
WHAT IS THE PRIZE PRESENTATION/AFTER PARTY?
A ticketed event (ticket included in your full festival entry package). Featuring the presentation of all race prizes/trophies, and after party at The Outback Sports Bar in central Douglas.
WHERE SHOULD I STAY?
We recommend staying in Douglas, which has all types of accommodation available, and is ideally located for all festival events! The best resource for planning your stay is the Visit Isle of Man website.
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO GET TO THE ISLAND?
Take the ferry! Travel by foot or car. There is a fast craft service from Liverpool (2¾ hours) or ferry service from Heysham (3¾ hours). Book your return ferry to the Isle of Man at Isle of Man Steam Packet Company.
There are also flights to the Isle of Man from all over the British Isles. Ronaldsway Airport is located in the southeast of the island, around 15 minutes from the capital Douglas, which you can get to by bus, or taxi.
ARE THERE ANY FESTIVAL RULES?
Yes! 2025 rules will be published when entries open. They will differ very little from last year’s rules which are available here.
What is the best way to get around the island if I am visiting?
We recommend taking advantage of the free coach transport included in our full festival entry package. Pickup and drop off each day is from Douglas.
Equally, take your car on the ferry or hire a car, giving you the freedom to explore the island!
HOW MUCH SPENDING MONEY SHOULD I BRING?
There are many options on the island to keep costs down, or equally live it up! Based on our annual feedback survey, most runners typically spend £200-300 across the weekend.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I SHOULD CONSIDER WHEN PLANNING MY TRIP?
We hope these FAQs are comprehensive. The Festival committee are on hand to help you. Don’t hesitate to ask us any questions you have at any time during your planning.
