Open house trail week - Flexi accessible impromptu running wows

There is no set plan – that is kind of the point. On any given day, depending on who’s here, various runs will be organised by the group. – we will support each other, exchange ideas, offer lifts, cook with each other. This was kindof inspired by volunteering at various events (Spine and Ourea events mostly) where people who have a shared common interest (but don’t necessarily know each other beforehand) get together, get on, and run together

There are amazing  trails right out of the door, and we would imagine also a few hikes and swims going on

The Dragon’s Back route (day 5) is only 4 km away, we are a checkpoint for the Beacons way Ultra, and the Wildhorse 200 – so great if you are recceing too

After all the action is done, we imagine sitting around eating and drinking, sharing stories, hints and tips – you get the idea

In the evenings  too we will cook a communal meal (chilli, curry, bangers and mash, that sort of thing) – other meals like breakfast and lunch you can bring and share around.

There will be coffee and tea and soft drinks available all the time – if you want booze then bring your own

We are also going to host a running Kit Library and a running Book Library – so you may have chance to try out that jacket you have always wanted to try (or if you havent got one then borrow one!)

Jon is the owner and operator of Almond Lodge Helvellyn and Almond Lodge Brecon Beacons. Before that he ran a design consultancy which he sold in 2018 – this allowed him to pursue his passion for the outdoors and pretend to be an athlete.

2024 was a big running year with an accidental completion of the Winter Spine (he won his place in the volunteer lottery), and a successful completion of the Dragons Back race the following September.

It’s fair to say he represents the keen mid to back packer – and this year is trying more for the mid than the back. In April 2025 he will attempt the Norther Traverse, follow this up with the Lakeland 100 in July and then in January 2026 has stupidly signed up for the Winter Spine again (this time tho it’s no accident!)

You need to bring your own bedding – All the beds have full size mattresses (and you will have top and bottom bunk to yourself) most people find a fitted sheet works well and bring either a duvet or sleeping bag, and a pillow or two

Run kit – what you would normally wear out on the trails 

Other – evening clothes, wash stuff etc.

We will be staying at Almond Lodge Brecon Beacons. It is in a stunning location in the western Brecon Beacons. Its on the Beacons way and Cambrian way long distance trails, and has unrivalled access to the Camarthen Fans – probably some of the best walks/runs in the country.

 Bring stuff to eat and share for Breakfast and Lunch – we will cook a communal meal in the evening (ingredients provided).

Tea and coffee and soft drinks in plentiful supply throughout.

You may wish to bring alcoholic drinks, extra snacks, gels etc.