History of The Hoppit
Celebrating 11 Years of Trail Running, Community Spirit, and a Well-Earned Pint.
Trail Running in Hampshire
Back in 2015, Basingstoke and Mid Hants Athletics Club (BMHAC) decided to create something new: a pair of scenic, challenging trail races through the beautiful countryside of Hampshire. And so, the Hampshire Hoppit Marathon and Half Marathon were born.
At the time, the South of England had far fewer trail events than other parts of the UK — so we saw an opportunity to bring something special to the calendar. Something memorable, inclusive, and maybe just a little bit beer-flavoured.
It all started in the pub (of course!)
Like all great running adventures, the Hoppit began with a pint in hand. One evening, during a BMHAC social at The Plough in Little London, someone asked the question:
The original idea — the “Little London Marathon” — included mimicking the London Marathon logo and starting and finishing at the pub. But a few realities quickly emerged:
Virgin (the London Marathopn sponsors at the time) probably wouldn’t be flattered by our branding. Little London couldn’t accommodate 500 runners and their cars. And, well… there weren’t actually any trails nearby. So, we scrapped the pub plan — but not the ambition.
Finding the perfect trail course
Inspiration hit soon after: what about our favourite long runs around Watership Down?The area between Basingstoke and Newbury is rich with trail-running potential, sitting on the edge of the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). It features two ancient, waymarked footpaths:
The Wayfarers Walk — a 110km droveway stretching across Hampshire and into Berkshire
The Harrow Way — one of Britain’s oldest roads, running east–west across southern England
After countless recce runs, feedback from club members, and some tweaks, we pieced together a stunning single-lap trail marathon that we’re still proud of today..
The Half Marathon and 10K
Initially, we planned only the full marathon — but quickly realised we’d be excluding a lot of runners. So we created a half marathon with the same principles.
- A single lap trail
- Great scenery
- Sections of the Wayfarers Walk and Harrow Way.
- And a proper challenge
After a few conversations with landowners, we finalised a half marathon route that shares several miles with the full course — including many of the same hills and views.
Later, we introduced a 10k race for even broader appeal. It’s a shorter, punchy version of the Hoppit, ideal for newer trail runners or those looking to enjoy the atmosphere without the full distance. Same vibe, same reward at the finish.
The Race HQ
Our original base was the historic Kingsclere Stables, with generous support from the Balding family. But over time, as land was reclaimed for paddocks and the race grew, we moved operations to the top of White Hill, just a mile away.
This location gave us the space we needed — for up to 1,200 runners, ample parking, and a stunning backdrop for the start and finish line. From 500 runners in 2016, to a sold-out field year after year, it’s been amazing to watch the event grow. Our most recent race was 1,100 runners, and we now have the luxury of capping our race entries, in confidence that our race will sell-out before race day.
Why is it called The Hampshire Hoppit?
The name? That goes back to The Plough and a well-loved pint of Hoppit Ale, brewed by Loddon Brewery. Way back at that first meeting, whilst supping our beer, we were discussing what would make our race stand out — and we thought, why not take inspiration from the Welsh trail races that reward runners with a beer? A few phone calls later, Loddon Brewery was on board. We commissioned the engraved pint and half-pint glasses, each proudly labelled “Hampshire Hoppit Finisher”, and the rest is history.
Oh, and yes — there’s a nod to hopping rabbits too, thanks to the race route running through the landscape made famous by Watership Down.
What next?
Since first setting off in 2016, the Hampshire Hoppit has grown into one of the UK’s most loved trail races, a sell-out event known for great routes, a brilliant atmosphere, and a day out runners come back for year after year. The Hoppit returns with marathon, half marathon and 10k distances, all taking in classic Hampshire trails and views at their best. Expect enthusiastic marshals at every turn, a buzzing finish line, and a bespoke finisher’s medal with a well-earned celebratory drink waiting for you at the end.
If you’re looking for a trail race with character, community, and a proven pedigree, this is it.
Spaces are limited and always in demand, secure your place now!
Basingstoke and MidHants Athletics Club look forward to welcoming you to the Hampshire Hoppit 2027 and another unforgettable day on the trails.
Ready to take on The Hampshire Hoppit?
Join us on Sunday 13 June 2027 for a scenic trail challenge across the Hampshire countryside. Choose your distance and secure your place on the start line.
