Get ready to lace up your trainers for an unforgettable autumn road race as Running Mania hosts the inaugural Hillier Gardens 10k on Sunday 11th October 2026! Taking place from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM BST at the world-renowned Sir Harold Hillier Gardens near Romsey, this unique running event gives participants the rare chance to race through one of the UK’s most impressive arboretums. The carefully designed 10k course weaves past world-class champion trees, vibrant botanical collections, and spectacular autumn foliage. Built for runners aged 15 and over, the event combines athletic achievement with nature, conservation, and Hampshire’s seasonal natural beauty.
Event Schedule & Timings
Schedule and timing details for the Hillier Gardens 10k:
- Event Date: Sunday 11th October 2026.
- Event Timings: The race takes place from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM BST.
Show Highlights & Lineup Features
Key highlights and race features for participants:
- Inaugural 10k Event: The first-ever organized 10k running event held within Sir Harold Hillier Gardens.
- Scenic Arboretum Course: A carefully designed route weaving past world-class champion trees and autumn botanical displays.
- Running Mania Organisation: Professionally chip-timed and managed race environment celebrating nature, conservation, and running excellence.
Ticket Information
Booking rules and registration details:
- Ticket Requirements: Advance booking required (Event is currently SOLD OUT).
- Age Limit: Suitable for runners aged 15 and over.
Venue Guidelines
Important visitor and parking notice for race day:
- Parking Restrictions: Electric vehicle charging bays and accessible parking spaces will be unavailable next to the Visitor Pavilion on event day.
- Spectator Rules: Visitors and spectators are asked to follow event signage and marshal instructions across the gardens.
How to Get to Sir Harold Hillier Gardens
Travel routes to reach Jermyns Lane, Ampfield, Romsey (SO51 0QA):
- By Car: Located just off the A3090 between Romsey and Winchester, with clear road signs directing to the main Jermyns Lane entrance.
- By Public Transport: Local bus connections run between Winchester, Romsey, and Southampton with stops near Jermyns Lane.
- By Train: The nearest train station is Romsey Railway Station, approximately 3 miles from the gardens.
Where to Park at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens
Parking information for race participants:
- On-Site Visitor Parking: Free main car parking is available on site for visitors and event participants (note pavilion accessibility restrictions).
Discover More Local Events
Looking for more exciting things happening across the region? Check out our complete list of What’s On in Southampton to discover sports events, autumn runs, outdoor activities, and local community showcases near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the Hillier Gardens 10k taking place?
- The event takes place on Sunday 11th October 2026 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM BST.
- Where is the Hillier Gardens 10k located?
- The race is held at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Jermyns Lane, Ampfield, Romsey, Hampshire (SO51 0QA).
- Who is organizing the Hillier Gardens 10k?
- The event is organized by Running Mania in partnership with Sir Harold Hillier Gardens.
- Is advance booking required for the Hillier Gardens 10k?
- Yes, advance booking is strictly essential due to limited capacity, and entry tickets are currently sold out.
- What is the minimum age requirement to participate?
- The race is open to runners aged 15 and over.
- What makes the Hillier Gardens 10k course unique?
- It is the inaugural 10k race through Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, taking runners through world-class champion trees and vibrant autumn foliage.
- Is parking available at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens on race day?
- Yes, main car parking is available on site for participants and visitors.
- Are electric vehicle charging bays available on race morning?
- No, EV charging bays and accessible parking spaces next to the Visitor Pavilion will be unavailable during the event.
- How do I get to Sir Harold Hillier Gardens by public transport?
- Local buses connect Winchester, Romsey, and Southampton to Jermyns Lane, while Romsey Train Station is approximately 3 miles away.
- Are spectators allowed to attend?
- Yes, spectators can attend and view the race while adhering to designated event signage and marshal instructions across the gardens.