The 24 HR WINDY 500 – 2025

In 2023, we smashed our goal of 2,400 miles in 24 hours as part of the original 100mph Challenge at Watchtree. Now, it’s time to take things up a gear and return for something even bigger and better – The 24 HR Windy 500!

This event is kindly supported by David Allen Financial Services

So, what exactly is the Windy 500?

It’s Watchtree’s unique endurance event where the mission is simple but ambitious: we aim to collectively complete 500 miles every hour for 24 hours – that’s a whopping 12,000 miles in total! Whether you’re walking one lap or running an ultra distance, every mile counts. This event celebrates individual achievement and collective power, all set against the beautiful backdrop of Watchtree Nature Reserve.

Why is it called the Windy 500?

Aside from the (sometimes breezy!) conditions, it’s a play on the iconic Indy 500 – but with a Watchtree twist. Our Independent 500 is about freedom, fun, and pushing your personal limits in a way that suits you. Think of it as a joyful endurance adventure with nature as your co-pilot.

🚶‍♀️🏃‍♂️ How it Works

• Each lap of Watchtree’s stunning 2-mile perimeter route adds 2 miles to our total.
• Set your own goal – 1 lap up to 200 laps… It’s completely up to you!
• You can visit Watchtree as many times as you like during the 24-hour period. No need to do it all in one go.
• All styles of movement are welcome – walk, run, roll, push, dog walk, or even cartwheel your way around! (no cycling, skateboards, or scooters)
• Popular times include our 10 PM twilight slot – it’s got a real magic to it!

The challenge ends with a celebratory Trail Run in the final hour, and we’d love to see as many people as possible join us for a grand finale lap (or two!).

Inclusive & Accessible

We’ve seen all sorts of participants in past events – from seasoned runners to families, toddlers, wheelchair users, dog walkers, and even people on crutches.
This event is for everyone.

Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Entry

• Non-members: £9
• Watchtree members: £7.20 (Enter your membership code when booking)

👥 Team Challenge

The Team Competition is back and better than ever!
Form a team of up to 8 participants (yes, dogs count if they’re contributing!) and compete to see who can clock up the most miles. Running clubs, workplaces, and friend groups – challenge each other, support each other, and have fun doing it. Just add your team name when you register and get ready to rack up those miles together!

Themed Hours

We’re bringing back some of the crowd favourites and cooking up a few new ones! While we’ll announce official themes closer to the event, here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Midnight Pyjama Lap (a classic!)
• Sunset or Sunrise Strolls
• Fancy Dress Fun
• Glow-Up Hour – bring the neon and LED lights
• 1 Lap Every Hour for 24 Hours (go on, we dare you)
• Marathon Challenge – spread it out across the day

Or invent your theme and bring your flair to the route!

🎶 The Windy 500 Spotify Playlist🎶

What’s a 24-hour challenge without a soundtrack?
Last year, we asked for your favourite songs, and you didn’t hold back with 226 songs on it’s a mash of everything! The playlist is still available below, just click on the Windy logo below and it will take you to Spotify!
When you sign up online, you’ll be able to add your favourite song to our official Windy 500 Spotify playlist. We’ll keep the tunes rolling all day and night, with a mix of motivational beats and feel-good favourites chosen by you.

Join us for this one-of-a-kind event that’s equal parts challenge, celebration, and community. Whether you aim for one lap or a hundred, your miles will help make something extraordinary happen.

Let’s go the distance together.

Be part of the 2025 Windy 500 and make your miles count!

Please read our Terms & Conditions before booking by clicking here