Why is the Ampthill vs Cancer 5K happening?
This event is about bringing our community together to raise money and awareness for the incredible charities that support local people during some of the most challenging times in their lives. It’s a chance to honour loved ones, stand in solidarity with those affected, and give back to the services that care for our friends, families, and neighbours when they need it most.
What are the details of the day?
The Ampthill vs Cancer 5K normally takes place on the last Sunday of June (we will confirm details of 2027 in due course)
- From 08:30 - Registrations
- 9:30 - Warm up
- 10:00 - 5K for those ages 11 upwards
- 12:00 - Golden Hare Mile (kids race for ages 7 to 12)
- 14:00 - Mini Hare (kids race for ages 6 and under)
- Afternoon - The ‘cooldown’ - presentations, picnic in the park, live music, stalls, food, drink and more!
- 17:00 - close
What if the weather is warm on the day?
• Bring a refillable water bottle if possible
• Wear appropriate clothing for the conditions
• Apply sunscreen and reapply throughout the day
• Take advantage of shaded areas where needed
• Look after children, older relatives and anyone who may be more vulnerable to the effects of warm weather
• Listen to your body and slow down or stop if you feel unwell
How much does it cost to enter?
- 5K: £15.00
- Golden Hare Mile: £6.00
- Mini Hare: £0 (please still register your little one)
- All proceeds go directly to the supported charities.
Can I still come along if I'm not running?
Absolutely. Everyone is welcome to come along, cheer on participants and enjoy The Cooldown, our free community celebration featuring live music, food vendors, children's activities, local businesses, charities and fundraising activities. Bring family and friends, pack a picnic blanket and make a day of it.
Can I walk the 5K?
Yes! (you'll be joined by loads of other walkers too). Whether you run, jog, or walk, this event is about participation, not pace. Everyone is welcome to move at their own speed.
Can I bring my dog to run with me on the 5K route?
We love dogs (most of us have them!) but due to the number of participants, dogs can’t take part (except registered guide or hearing dogs) for everyone’s safety. Thank you for your understanding.
Can I run with my child in their buggy?
The course isn’t really suitable for buggies or pushchairs. Some sections are quite narrow, and the ground is uneven in places, which would make it difficult to navigate safely. We’d recommend leaving the buggy at home for this one - but children are very welcome to take part in the Golden Hare Mile and Mini Hare!
What is the Golden Hare Mile and Mini Hare?
These are special children’s races inspired by the legendary treasure hunt book Masquerade, which featured a golden hare hidden in Ampthill Park.
The 'Golden Hare Mile' is a run for kids from ages 7 to 12. The 'Mini Hare' is a shorter run for the younger kids from ages 6 and under around the cricket pitch. Both the kids runs are a fun and meaningful way to get the next generation involved!
What charities are we raising money for?
We’re supporting two incredible charities in 2026 making a real impact in our community:
- Move against Cancer – charity that helps people affected by cancer stay active. Founded by Gemma Hillier Moses after her own diagnosis, it offers an online rehab programme for young people, “5K Your Way” support groups at parkruns, and practical resources on exercise and wellbeing, promoting movement to improve life during and after treatment.
- Keech Hospice – charity providing free specialist palliative and end-of-life care for adults and children with life-limiting illnesses across Bedfordshire. It offers medical, emotional and practical support at home and in its hospice centres, relying largely on local donations to help families receive compassionate care when it matters most.
We are also raising money towards a 'community fund', that will deliver initiatives to help and support people directly in our community.
We will announce our charity partners for 2027 in due course.
Is there anything happening after the run?
Yes! We’d love for you to stick around. After the race, there’ll be live music, food, kids entertainment and a big community picnic in the beautiful setting of Ampthill Park. Whether you’re running, volunteering, or cheering someone on, we encourage everyone to stay, relax, and enjoy the celebrations together. We are calling this the ‘cooldown’, which is open to anyone, as well as participants of the 5K, Golden Hare Mile and Mini Hare.
Can I buy food on the day?
Yes! We’re encouraging everyone to stay after the run, enjoy the atmosphere, and keep the celebrations going. There will be live music and the chance to buy food from local vendors who’ll be serving up tasty options after the event.
Of course, you’re also very welcome to bring a picnic and relax in the beautiful surroundings of Ampthill Park. However you choose to join in, we’re looking forward to seeing everyone come together and make it a day to remember!
Can I buy alcohol?
Unlike last year, we will be selling alcohol on the day. You are also very welcome to bring your own if you’d like to enjoy a drink during the community picnic after the event.
We just kindly ask that everyone takes their rubbish home to help keep Ampthill Park clean and beautiful for all to enjoy.
Where can I park on the day?
There will be free parking available at the Ampthill Park West car park (plus an overflow area). if this fills up, free parking will open up (in this order); Lawrence Park (Queensman FC), Ampthill Rugby Club and Alameda Sports Hall gravel area.
If you’re local, we’d really encourage you to walk to the event if possible as it helps ease congestion and keeps things running smoothly for everyone.
I can’t run but still want to support. Can I donate?
Absolutely. You can donate directly via our website: Make a donation – Ampthill vs Cancer. Every donation helps make a real difference.
I'm not running - can I still help out?
Yes please! We’re looking for volunteers to help on the day with marshalling, registration, and more. Email us through the contact page on the website to get involved or see here: Join the Team – Ampthill vs Cancer
Where can I sign up or learn more?
Visit www.ampthillvscancer.co.uk to sign up, donate, or find out more about the event and the charities we’re supporting.