Get into the festive spirit at the fifth Lewes Downland Santa Run

Runners aged eight and above and of all abilities are invited to lace up their trainers, don festive fancy dress and join the fifth annual Lewes Downland Santa Run on Sunday 20th December 2026.

Organised by Lewes Athletic Club, the popular event offers scenic routes across the beautiful Lewes Downs and raises money for the Friends of Lewes Victoria Hospital.

There is something for everyone, from a festive introduction to downland running to a longer winter challenge. Participants can choose from a 5K, 10K or 15K Santa Run, while younger runners and families can enjoy a fun, one-mile Elf Run.

Starting from Landport Bottom, the main routes head across the stunning downland landscape towards Ditchling before returning to Lewes. Festive fancy dress is encouraged, giving runners, friends and families a chance to share seasonal fun while supporting a valuable local cause.

Last year’s Santa Run raised £2,750 for the Friends of Lewes Victoria Hospital. The charity and Lewes Athletic Club recently presented the funds to the hospital, helping to pay for two naso-endoscopes used by Ear, Nose and Throat specialists in outpatient clinics.

The Friends of Lewes Victoria Hospital is a volunteer-run charity that has supported the local hospital for 60 years. Funded by donations, legacies and support from residents and businesses, it has raised £6 million to improve hospital services and facilities.

Over the past five years alone, the charity has donated more than £800,000 towards equipment and facilities. Recent funding has supported departments across the hospital, including the Urgent Care Centre, Intermediate Care Unit, Physiotherapy Department and Day Case Unit.

The charity continues to raise funds for essential equipment and projects, including improvements to the operating department and ophthalmic equipment, as well as research into dementia services in the local area.

Lewes Athletic Club Chair Philip Westbury said: “The Santa Run is a wonderful way to bring people together at Christmas, enjoy our beautiful South Downs and raise money for a cause that makes a real difference to our community. We’re delighted to be supporting the Friends of Lewes Victoria Hospital again this year. Whether you’re tackling 15K or joining us for the one-mile Elf Run, we’d love to see you there… preferably in festive fancy dress!”

How to enter

The Lewes Downland Santa Run takes place on Sunday 20th December 2026, starting at Landport Bottom, Lewes.

With a choice of 5K, 10K, 15K and one-mile Elf Run routes, the event welcomes runners of all abilities aged eight and above.

Book your place now at: https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/LewesDownlandSantaFunRun2026

Pull on your Santa suit, gather your friends and family, and help make a difference to your local hospital this Christmas.

About Lewes Athletic Club 

Established in 1984, Lewes AC supports athletes of all ages and abilities, offering coaching and competition across track and field, cross country, road running, and more. To learn more, visit www.lewesac.co.uk.