The Maverick Hampshire Trail 2027
Saturday 20 March 2027 | Matterley Basin Grand Prix Track
We’re heading to the rolling beauty of the South Downs National Park, exploring the trails that sweep around historic Winchester for a perfect early-season test in 2027.
This is classic Maverick terrain - open landscapes, flowing singletrack, and undulating chalk downland that invites you to settle into rhythm while never quite letting you switch off. With three route options on offer, there’s something here for every runner looking to build winter miles, shake off the cobwebs, and set the tone for the season ahead.
Expect a mix of fast, hard-packed trails and punchy climbs that open out into vast panoramic views across the National Park. The routes wind their way past the tranquil River Itchen, through sections of fast-moving woodland, and out onto exposed ridgelines before bringing you back toward the iconic Cheesefoot Head.
And don’t be surprised if you find yourself moving quicker than expected - this is a fast course underfoot, and when the legs are turning over, PBs and early-season course records are very much on the cards.
It’s the kind of terrain that rewards commitment: steady on the climbs, smooth on the descents, and always asking just a little more of you than you planned to give.
With easy access from London, this Hampshire classic is the ideal early-season hit-out for any trail runner looking to build momentum heading into the year.
Late winter miles start here - the Maverick way.
DETAILS
Registration:
Half Marathon - 07:45 - 09:15am
Middle & Short route - 09:00 - 10:10am
Start times:
Half Marathon: 09:45am
Middle & Short : 10:15am
DIFFICULTY
Stunning woodland, well marked bridleways, with a few technical descents suitable for all levels of runner.
About our ratings
Entry Price
Enter any 3 races from any series, or 3 entries into this event, and get 20% off
Online entry closes on Wednesday 17th March 2027 at 11:00am.
There are a limited number of dog spaces available; book now to avoid missing out.
The Routes
Choose your route carefully. The distance and elevation gain should give you some indication as to how easy/hard each route is, as well as showing you where the tougher climbs are.
Official Retail Partner of Maverick Race
Pro:Direct Running and Maverick Race are collaboratively working together to bring a curated and guided range of the best Trail running products to Maverick runners. With Trail races varying in distances from 5 km up to 102 km, whether you are new to Trail or an experienced Ultra runner, Pro:Direct Running has a substantial selection of footwear, clothing, accessories and nutrition for whatever your needs across these distances and trail terrains.
What you get
More Information
As a guide, you should always:
• Follow the on-course signage
• Listen to on-course marshals
• Take care when crossing roads
• Be considerate to others
• Please close all gates, DO NOT litter!
CUT-OFFS
Although we do not have strict cut-offs as such, we do appreciate it if all runners are finished by 2pm. This equates to a finish time of 4 hours.
This helps to ease the pressure on our marshals so that they are not stood outside for long periods of time.
OUTPOSTS
The outposts are designed to act as a top up for what you are already carrying. There will be a range of sweet & savoury snacks (fruit, cake, crisps) as well as gels and electrolyte drink.
Please note: there is no outpost on the Short route.
PLASTIC FREE
In an effort to keep our trails clean and preserve the nature around us, we’re aiming to keep our outposts cup-free. Please bring a cup or bottle to refill. Speed Cups are available to purchase at each event and online.
HEADPHONES
We strongly recommend not wearing headphones at this event, but if you do want to listen to your tunes whilst on the trials, we recommend bone conduction headphones.
TRANSFERS
If you need to transfer out from this event, you can do this via your Let's Do This account. You can't transfer if the event has sold out. The last day to transfer out of an event is the Monday before event day (5 days before the event). Please refer to our Terms & Conditions to read more about Transfers.
Essential Items
PLEASE PACK:
Phone
Trail shoes
Rain coat
Long sleeve top
Foil blanket
Water bottle / running pack
A re-useable cup
Getting to the Race
By Car
Free parking is available at the venue.
Free parking is available at the venue.
By Train
Nearest Train Station: Winchester (15 mins drive)
Southern Railway: London Waterloo - Winchester
Journey Time: Approx 1hr10
Nearest Train Station: Winchester (15 mins drive)
Southern Railway: London Waterloo - Winchester
Journey Time: Approx 1hr10
By Taxi
Wessex Cars
01962 626262
Wessex Cars
01962 626262
