Get ready to leave the pavement behind and explore a side of Manchester few ever see.

BEYOND MANCHESTER by WILD DEER EVENTS is back on Saturday 18th July 2026 – and it’s more than just a run. With a 55km ULTRA route and a 25km TRAIL RUN for runners and walkers, this is an outdoor adventure that ventures deep into the greenbelt and untamed edges beyond the city. 

From the start in the Castlefield area, the 55km ULTRA route takes runners through the city to the Manchester Ship Canal. Turning south on the canal, you’ll wind through the Salford Quays and past the BBC buildings. Prepare for some sights: crossing from the Manchester Canal to the (much smaller) Bridgewater Canal, you’ll wind past the Imperial War Museum North and catch a glimpse of Old Trafford. Then, you’ll pass through Eccles and the route changes from canal to disused railway. You’ll head north through the outer suburbs of the city, reaching Bolton and then heading east towards Bury. You’ll do over 10 km on the Irwell Sculpture Trail (look out for great views over the Irwell valley!) then head back into the city centre. The final stretch is packed with cathedrals, law courts and lots of other historical buildings. Iconic - just like you.

From the start in the Castlefield area, the 25km Beyond MCR route runs through the streets of the city to the Manchester Ship Canal. Turning south, runners then wind their way through the Salford Quays and past the BBC buildings. Here the route crosses from the Manchester Canal to the Bridgewater Canal, bringing runners past the Imperial War Museum North and views of Old Trafford. Passing through Eccles, runners then head west to meet the River Irwell before heading back into Manchester City Centre. The final section takes you past some of Manchester’s finest historical buildings, including law courts and cathedrals. Take a bow - you’ve smashed it.