This coming Easter Monday, Halifax will make history by hosting a unique ‘urban trail’ race inspired by a popular French tradition.

The event marks the first time a race of this kind has been staged in Britain, with the route actually passing inside several of our town’s finest historic buildings.

Participants will have the rare chance to run through Dean Clough, Shibden Hall, Halifax Minster, the Piece Hall, and even the Town Hall.

Race Director Andrew Bibby says the community has been incredibly supportive of this creative way to show off the best of Halifax. “The idea of an urban trail like this has obviously completely captured people’s imaginations, and we’ve been blown away by the response we’ve received.”

The special bank holiday event is set to kick off at 9.30am in the beautiful surroundings of Shibden Park.

Planning for this ambitious project has taken over a year, with local venues and volunteers coming together to make it a reality.

Andrew Bibby expressed his gratitude to the building owners who have welcomed the 500 sweaty runners with open arms.

Sixty marshals, including kind volunteers from the Halifax Rotary Club, will be stationed along the course to keep everyone safe.

At Dean Clough, runners will take a scenic route right through the art galleries, giving spectators a fantastic vantage point to cheer them on.

Jeremy Hall, Chairman and Managing Director at Dean Clough, expressed his delight at being involved in such a creative fundraiser. “It is such a wonderful idea to organise this very worthy fundraiser with a running event that passes through some of the finest heritage estates in our town.”

Friends, family, and neighbours are encouraged to line the streets near Bank Top, Southowram, Akroyd Park, and Claremount Road to support the competitors.

While the race is now officially full, the organisers are currently compiling a waiting list for any last-minute entries.

If you are hoping to snag a late place due to injury withdrawals, you can find more information on the official website.

Location: Halifax, West Yorkshire