Smalley 5 Bells

What is it?

Experience the inspiring atmosphere of one of the UK’s friendliest running clubs by taking part in the ‘Smalley 5 Bells’ race this summer.

The challenging, yet enjoyable 5 mile route is inclusive for beginners, intermediate and advanced runners alike.

It takes in the beautiful locations surrounding Smalley, Mapperley and Shipley Country Park.

The course is a multi-terrain trail race, which includes scenic woodland, bridleways and rural paths through the picturesque countryside.

Check back regularly for The 2027 Race info!

Why Smalley 5 Bells?

You may ask, ‘Why is the race named Smalley 5 Bells?’. In short it’s based on the history of Smalley village.

St John the Baptist Church houses 5 bells, the bells were given as a gift to the parish in 1912. The churches’ bell tower was built especially to house them.

Rev. Charles Kerry who gifted the bells has a tomb in the churchyard and the bell tower is a big part of Smalley’s heritage. The local pub is also called The Bell and some of the street names follow the same theme.

We decided to relate the race to the village as a thank you to the Smalley residents and the local community for their support in allowing us to host the race here.

The number 5 also tied in nicely with the distance of the race!

Course Map

Headline Sponsor

Smalley 5 Bells Proudly Supports

The Smalley 5 Bells Fun Run

Colour Fun Run details

  • Location: Smalley Lodge, Bell Lane, Smalley, Ilkeston, Derbyshire, DE7 6DU
  • Start Time: 12:00pm (registration open from 11am)
  • Course: 1 mile route around the perimeter of the event village (grass terrain)
  • Awards: Medals will be presented to all participants on completion.
  • Age Groups: All ages.
  • Registration: Please complete the registration form and pay the correct fee. Each participant will be issued with a bib.
  • Timings: No official timings will be recorded.

More Race Information

What can I expect?

The Smalley 5 Bells will be a licensed, fully marshalled, timed 5-mile route on scenic woodland, bridleways, and rural paths through the picturesque Smalley, Mapperley and Shipley Park.

There will be water stations at Mapperley Reservoir and at the finish.

A designated parking field will be available on Bell Lane. This will not be a drop off point as Bell Lane will adopt a one-way system until the race is complete. Please be considerate to the residents that reside on Bell Lane.

Every finisher will receive a race t-shirt and medal.

More details can be found in the race pack issued to all participants.

Prizes:

Prizes will be awarded to the following:

  • 1st Male & Female
  • 2nd Male & Female
  • 3rd Male & Female

What will be in the Race Village?

We have a great variety on offer in the race village from food vendors, ice cream van, sports therapist, the Woodland Trust as well as toilet facilities, first aid, and bag drop.

Where can I sign up?

Check back regularly for The 2027 Race info!

Follow us on social media for the latest news and information.

What happens next?

Follow us on Facebook to get the latest information ahead of the event.

If you have any questions, you can contact us at Smalley5bells@gmail.com