Welcome to Ipswich Trail Runners
Suffolk’s adventure running club
Ipswich Trail Runners is for anyone who loves exploring the outdoors on foot – whether you’re brand new to running or deep into your ultra trail journey. We believe a great running community is built on diversity, encouragement, and shared adventure. So come and make friends, test your limits, and discover the beauty of Suffolk’s trail network.
We run four times a week – that’s up to 16 trail adventures a month – across the best routes in and around Suffolk.
A New Club with Big Energy
Founded in 2025, we’re a fresh face on the Suffolk running scene with a growing community of trail lovers. Whether you're already a seasoned trail runner or just curious to give it a try, there's never been a better time to join and grow with us.
What to Expect as a Member
👣 Runs 4 days a week across Suffolk’s best trail networks
🌄 Adventures further afield, plus occasional track sessions and mountain camps
💬 Supportive, welcoming community
🎁 Exclusive member discounts on kit, nutrition, and recovery
Joining a trail running club is one of the best ways to stay fit, build confidence, and meet brilliant people. We’re here to help you do all that, and have a lot of fun along the way.
This is Suffolk’s adventure running community – and everyone’s invited.
Club Events
At Ipswich Trail Runners, we keep things flexible, fun, and full of variety—with around 16 runs each month and a rotating calendar that takes you across Suffolk and beyond.
No rigid weekly schedule here—run times, days, and locations change week to week, so you’re never stuck in one spot and always up for an adventure. But here’s the general rhythm you can expect:
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Tuesday or Thursday evenings – Coached session: Intervals or hills to build strength and speed, designed for all abilities
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Wednesday evenings – Social run: 5–10km of good trails and good chat
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Thursday evenings – 3-5km trail run: A relaxed, supportive trail run to ease into the weekend
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Weekends – Long runs: Beautiful routes close to home or epic adventures further afield
Plus, we organise running camps in the Lake District, Dartmoor, Snowdonia, and the Brecon Beacons for those who really want to level up (tickets sold separately).
Come run with us—you’ll explore more, train smarter, and meet some brilliant trail-loving humans along the way.
Member Benefits
We believe the best part of being an Ipswich Trail Runners member is the people—making new friends, sharing miles, and being part of a welcoming, down-to-earth trail-loving community.
You’ll also:
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Boost your fitness and confidence on a variety of scenic trails across East Anglia (and beyond)
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Train smarter with access to coached sessions, varied weekly runs, and optional guidance from our qualified coaching team
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Enjoy exclusive discounts from local partners—think sports massage therapists, yoga classes, and more
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Access special events, weekend adventure runs, and ticketed trail camps in stunning locations like Snowdonia and the Lake District
Whether you’re here for the fun, the fitness, or the freedom of the trails—there’s a place for you at ITR.
First Trail Run Checklist - FAQ
What should I wear for my first trail run?
FootwearTrail shoes are ideal for grip on muddy, uneven terrain, but your road trainers will be absolutely fine for your first few runs. Just avoid brand new shoes to prevent blisters, and expect mud (especially in winter across Suffolk trails).
Clothing
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Moisture-wicking layers (avoid cotton as it stays wet and cold)
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Weather-appropriate outer layer: lightweight waterproof for rain, windproof for chilly evenings
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Bright or reflective elements for evening runs (we start at 18:30 on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday)
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Clean, dry change of clothes to leave in your car – essential for staying warm after the run, especially for our Wednesday pub socials
What should I bring?
Hydration & Nutrition
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Water bottle or small hydration vest for runs over 45 minutes
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Weekend long runs (8:00 or 9:00 starts): bring snacks like energy gels, bars, or bananas
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Weeknight runs: usually fine without food, but bring something if you're running straight from work
Safety & Navigation (Required)
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Head torch (essential for all evening runs) – autumn and winter evenings get dark quickly on Suffolk trails
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Fully charged phone (our leaders carry phones and first aid, but having your own is smart)
Optional Extras
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Small running backpack if carrying layers or extra water
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Buff or hat for weather protection
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Spare car key (some trails start and finish at car parks)
How do I book my first run?
RSVP to your chosen run in the Upcoming Events section of the members area on the website – this is required for all runs. Check the event details for route information, meeting point, and parking information.
Aim to arrive 10 minutes early (especially important for 18:30 weeknight starts) and introduce yourself to the run leaders – we're all LiRF qualified and genuinely welcoming!
What happens during the run?
There will always be a leader at the front and one at the back, so no one gets left behind. We use a loop-back technique where faster runners circle back to slower runners, and we regroup at natural points like stiles, roads, and junctions.
There are no pace requirements or pressure for PBs. This is about enjoyment, community, and exploring beautiful Suffolk countryside together. Expect varied terrain: roots, mud, hills, narrow paths, and stunning views.
How far and fast do you run?
Pace & Distance
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Tuesday/Thursday runs: typically 5-8km
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Wednesday night social runs: 5-12km (start and finish at the pub)
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Weekend long runs: 10-20km depending on the schedule
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All abilities are genuinely welcome – the loop-back system works brilliantly
What if I need to stop or slow down?
Absolutely fine – just let a run leader know. The back leader stays with the slowest runner always, and regroup points mean you won't hold anyone up.
What if I get injured or feel unwell?
All our leaders are first aid trained and carry kits. We carry phones, know the routes thoroughly, and complete full risk assessments for every route.
What if I get lost?
Won't happen – leaders stay at front and back, routes are recce'd in advance, and we regroup at every junction or tricky section.
What if the weather is terrible?
Runs happen in all weather except extreme conditions. Check Slack for any last-minute changes, dress in layers, and embrace the mud – it's part of trail running!
What happens after the run?
Wednesday night social runs start and finish at the pub – perfect opportunity to socialize, chat, ask questions, and get to know the community. Our leaders will share nutrition advice and answer any questions about future runs. (And that clean change of clothes? You'll be so grateful for it!)
Where do you run?
We run across Ipswich, Felixstowe, Hadleigh, Woodbridge, and Martlesham, so there's always variety and something new to explore. Our general rhythm includes Tuesday or Thursday coached sessions, Wednesday social runs, Thursday relaxed trail runs, and weekend long runs.
