Escape to Exmoor
A trail running retreat for everyday runners, combining wild trails, practical learning, and a blissful break from the everyday.
Moorland & Coastal
Friday 9th - Monday 12th October 2026
Step away from routine and join Bristol Trail Runners for a fully guided trail running weekend exploring the wild and varied landscapes of Exmoor.
This retreat is designed for everyday trail runners who enjoy being outdoors, exploring new places and sharing the experience with others. You don’t need to be fast or highly experienced, just comfortable running on trails and open to adventure.
Across the weekend, we’ll experience two very different sides of Exmoor. We begin in the open moorland with its wide skies, flowing trails and space to settle into the rhythm of the weekend before moving towards the dramatic coastline, where steeper terrain and changing trails bring a different kind of adventure.
The weekend also includes a hands-on trail running session with nutritionist Robbie Puddick, where we'll prepare and share a meal together.
The aim isn’t just to cover miles. It’s to experience variety, build confidence, and enjoy running in wild places with good people.
Weekend at a Glance
The overall structure is set, with final routes and timings confirmed closer to the time.
Day 1 — Arrival & Settle In
-
Arrival and check-in at our Exmoor base
-
Relaxed afternoon trail run to stretch the legs
-
Time to settle in and meet the group
-
Group dinner and relaxed evening
Day 2 — Moorland Adventure
-
Guided running across Exmoor’s open moorland
-
Steady, social running with space to enjoy big landscapes
-
Time to rest and recover in the afternoon
-
Practical trail running nutrition workshop with Robbie Puddick
-
Hands-on group meal using the principles and ideas covered in the session, followed by a relaxed evening together.
Day 3 — Coastal Experience
-
Guided running on Exmoor’s dramatic coastline
-
Practical coastal movement skills including climbing, descending and adapting to technical terrain
-
Optional guidance on using poles and adapting to changing ground
-
Led by experienced Bristol Trail Runners run leaders and coaches
-
Café or pub social stop (optional)
-
Time to enjoy the coast, whether that’s a walk, sea dip, SUP or simply taking in the views
-
Final evening meal together
Day 4 — Slow Morning & Departure
-
Optional scenic morning run or walk
-
Breakfast and relaxed departures
The Exmoor Experience
Exmoor offers two distinct trail environments, and experiencing both is what makes this retreat special.
The Moorland
Big landscapes, even bigger skies and flowing terrain create a relaxed atmosphere where runners can find their rhythm, settle into the group and enjoy steady, social running. It’s the perfect way to ease into the weekend and build confidence.
The Coast
Over the weekend, we transition to Exmoor’s iconic coastline with its rugged paths, bigger climbs and dramatic views. Here, runners can gently challenge themselves technically, supported by experienced leaders and the confidence built earlier in the weekend.
Together, these two landscapes give a fuller, more rounded trail running experience than either could alone.
What You'll Take Away
By the end of the weekend you can expect:
-
Greater confidence across varied terrain
-
Better awareness of pacing and effort on longer runs
-
Improved movement on climbs and descents
-
Practical fuelling ideas you can use immediately
-
Fresh motivation and renewed enjoyment of running
And just as importantly:
-
Time away from everyday routine
-
Space to reset and recharge
-
Shared experiences with like-minded runners
-
The joy of running somewhere wild
Ticket Prices
Weekend Retreat Tickets Include:
-
3 nights of accommodation at Riscombe Farm Cottages
-
3 days of guided trail running across moorland and coastal terrain
-
Practical trail running nutrition session with Robbie Puddick
-
Trail skills and movement guidance from experienced BTR run leaders
-
Supportive small-group retreat atmosphere
-
Breakfast and evening meals (excluding any meals out)
Private Double Room — £325
Ideal for those wanting their own space or booking as a pair.
Twin Room (shared) — £175 per person
A comfortable shared option and a great way to enjoy the social side of the retreat.
Triple Room (shared) — £150 per person
Our most affordable weekend option, perfect for runners happy to share and keep things relaxed.
We’ll be based across two cosy cottages — a three-bedroom and a two-bedroom — set in an attractive rural location in the heart of Exmoor.
Day Tickets (Sat/Sun)
A limited number of day tickets will be available for runners who would like to join part of the retreat without staying overnight.
Day tickets £50 per person per day
(Availability and exact details confirmed closer to the event.)
A Weekend to Remember
This weekend is about more than just miles.
It’s about getting away, breathing fresh air, running in wild places and coming home feeling refreshed, more confident and inspired for whatever comes next.
We’d love you to join us!
Ready to escape to Exmoor with us?
Where you will be staying
We’ll be staying across two comfortable cottages, a three-bedroom and a two-bedroom, set in a peaceful rural location near Exford, right in the heart of Exmoor.
The cottages offer a relaxed and welcoming base close to some of Exmoor’s most beautiful trails, with spacious communal areas and a well-equipped kitchen for cooking, eating and winding down together.
Expect cosy indoor spaces, outdoor areas to relax, and plenty of quiet nooks to curl up with a good book. Guests also have access to a wood burner, pool table and football table , perfect for slowing down and enjoying the retreat atmosphere after a day on the trails.
