All you need to know ahead of Rainbow Run 2026 at Sherwood Pines, including timings, distances and race day essentials

Rasselbock will be bringing the vibes back to the picturesque Sherwood Pines this summer as the popular Rainbow Run returns for another year.

There’s a little over a week left before runners of all abilities will light up the forest with their rainbow face paint, colourful headbands and snazzy leggings.

It’s an afternoon catered to all – whether you’re pushing for a personal best or you just want a memorable experience with friends. Here’s all the key information you need if you’re preparing for the Rainbow Run, thinking of entering, or just popping along for the race day atmosphere.

When and where is the 2026 Rainbow Run?

The Rainbow Run will return to Sherwood Pines for another year and will take place on Sunday, June 7th. It kicks off an exciting summer calendar of running races in and around Mansfield – find out what’s coming up next here.

What time does the Rainbow Run start?

According to the Rasselbock website, the venue will open at 8am, followed by race registration from 8.10am onwards. This is the time for you to pick up your race number. A pre-race briefing will be held five minutes before the Rainbow Run start time of 9am.

How long is the Rainbow Run?

The Rainbow Run is as long as you make it. The race consists of a 6.168km loop through the forest and you are free to take on as many laps as you’d like. Runners have six hours in total to make the race their own – meaning you can call it one and done to collect your momento, push for the full day, or settle for somewhere in the middle.

One lap will see you over the 5km mark, four laps is a half marathon, seven laps reaches marathon territory, and anything beyond the eight-lap mark is classed as an ultra.

Can I still enter the 2026 Rainbow Run?

Yes, there are still spaces to be claimed before the 2026 Rainbow Run sells out. At the time of writing, there are just 18 tickets left, so if you’re thinking of entering, don’t leave it too much longer. You can book your place or find out more information here.

Food, drink and facilities at the Rainbow Run

There will be an aid station set up at the base camp featuring ‘enjoyable fuel’ items. Cakes, cookies and savoury alternatives, along with drinks, will be available at the aid station but no typical race day staples like gels – so you are best bringing your own fuel if these are the things you’ll be relying on.

To minimise waste, the Rainbow Run does not supply plastic cups or bottles so you will need to bring your own bottle on the day.

There are public toilets at the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre that can be accessed from 8.15am. On-site parking starts at £4 for under an hour, up to £12.50 for the full day. Rasselbock usually offers a discount for runners to park on race day.

There is no designated bag drop but there will be an area to leave things while you run – just be cautious that your belongings will not actively be manned throughout the day.

Sherwood Pines conditions and weather

We may be enjoying the warm weather at the moment but don’t forget conditions can change quickly. Race day is forecast to be sunny with the ground set to be dry and firm this time, however, last year brought showers and wet ground.

It’s also worth noting the Rainbow Run is not a closed circuit, meaning members of the public, including dog walkers and cyclists, will be in the area and likely along the running route.

Things not to forget on race day

Be sure to wear clothing that is comfortable and suitable for the terrain and conditions, and don’t forget your rainbow colours! There will be prizes for the best outfits on the day.

Sherwood Pines features natural woodland and gravel tracks, so trail shoes are recommended if possible. Consider extra layers just in case the weather does dramatically change.

The aid station will have plenty available to eat and drink but not your typical race day fuel – so if you’re planning a long distance run, be sure to bring your own fluids, gels, tablets and any other necessities to keep you going. Don’t forget to bring your own bottle too, which you can top up at the aid station.

Phone signal is unreliable once you’re in the forest so if you’ve got a music playlist or podcast series lined up for your run, consider downloading it beforehand.

Most importantly, have a great day and don't push beyond your limits. Listen to your body and be aware of your surroundings.