HE RACE IS BASED IN THE VILLAGE OF NASEBY, FAMOUS FOR THE BATTLE OF NASEBY IN 1645 Shires and Spires is a five distance circular event with a mixture of trails and roads comprising 10K (road), Half Marathon, 3/4 Marathon (new for 2024)Marathon and Ultra Marathon (35 miles!) . All distances start and finish at Naseby Village Hall which is a great central location close to the A14, M1 and M6 motorways. The routes takes in the beautiful Northamptonshire countryside and for the Multi Terrain Marathon/Ultra Marathon the country houses of Holdenby, Althorp (home of the Spencer family and final resting place of Princess Diana), and Cottesbrooke. The Half Marathon, 3/4 Marathon and Marathon give a break from the usual road races at these distances and create a new challenge with the changing terrain. We have created a mini running festival with the chance to enjoy the excitement of race day regardless of the distance you are doing. The event is run in a clockwise direction on even years and anti-clockwise on odd years, both give you a different perspective on this scenic route. Which is harder? That’s for you to decide!