Castles and Islands

Are you up for the challenge?

A unique challenge for teams of sailors and runners visiting five castles (Alnwick, Warkworth, Dunstanburgh, Bamburgh, and Lindisfarne) and the islands of North Northumberland (Coquet, The Farnes and Holy Island). To be completed in 24 hours.

The Course

The challenge starts at Alnwick Castle with a 16km / 10 mile run to Amble visiting en-route Warkworth Castle, which has to be “circumnavigated” before continuing on to Amble Harbour. At Amble the runners join their boats which are allowed to motor to the affectionately known “sewer buoy"; after which only sail power may be used.

Under sail the boats must circumnavigate Coquet Island in a clockwise direction then, in any order, visit

– Newton Haven,
– Seahouses Harbour,
– Holy Island
– Pass through both Inner Sound and Staple Sound.

At Newton Haven, Seahouses Harbour and Holy Island Harbour the runners will complete set runs of 7km. (4½ miles), 11km. (6½ miles), and 15km (9 miles).

For more information please visit the official Castles & Islands Challenge website.