Mental Elf 2025

All abilities and all ages can take part; the event is non-competitive Children aged 5 and under can take part for free and all children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Yes. Well-behaved dogs are welcome to run with you or come along with spectators. Please watch out for other runners along the route. Dogs must be kept on a short lead and we ask owners to be mindful of both adults and children that may be uneasy around dogs, even if your pet is friendly.

Your entry fee includes a runner's medal and a goody bag as well as a warm-up led by a fitness professional. Some entertainment will also be provided on the day.

Absolutely! We encourage everyone to go at their own pace, especially if bringing children. Pushchairs are welcome but, for safety reasons, we cannot permit bicycles or scooters.

Mental Elf is a non-competitive event and race times will not be recorded. The route is nominally 5km but is not a measured competitive distance and the actual length of each lap is approximately 2.45km for a total distance of 4.9km – a little gift from the elves!

We’d love everyone taking part to help raise funds by setting up a JustGiving page or encouraging friends and family to sponsor you. Every penny really does make a difference to the mental health services we provide in our local communities.

Alternatively, you can download and print our sponsorship form.

See our data use document for more information.