Beat the Ferry – Race Ready Guide
Everything you need to prepare for Beat the Ferry, from terrain and conditions to where to stay, eat, and gear up. Whether you’re local to Dorset or travelling in, this guide will help you arrive calm, prepared, and ready to run.
Terrain and Route Overvie
Beat the Ferry is a 50km out-and-back trail run set on the dramatic south coast of England, taking in some of Dorset’s most iconic running terrain. The route begins beside the chain ferry at Studland and immediately mixes firm sand, coastal trail, and rolling ridge paths as it climbs onto the Purbeck Ridge. Runners follow sections of the South West Coast Path and the Purbeck Way, with wide views, open grassland, chalky tracks, and occasional narrow trail. Expect a constantly changing surface underfoot. Some sections are fast and runnable, others are more exposed and undulating. There is very little flat running, and the elevation gain accumulates gradually rather than in one big climb. This is a route that rewards steady pacing, good trail awareness, and enjoying the landscape rather than fighting it.
Typical July weather in Dorset
July on the Dorset coast is usually warm but changeable.
Daytime temperatures often sit between 18–24°C, though exposed ridge sections can feel hotter in direct sun and cooler when the wind picks up. Coastal breezes are common, and runners should be prepared for sun, wind, and light showers all in the same day.
The ground is typically dry in summer, but chalk and grass trails can still become slippery after rain. Sun protection, hydration, and sensible layering matter more here than chasing marginal weight savings. Plan for conditions, not forecasts.
The Ferry Challenge
One runner is selected to be the Ferry.
They start at the very back of the field, clearly marked and impossible to miss, and move steadily through the race. This is an optional challenge, not a requirement.
If you finish ahead of the Ferry, you’ve beaten it.
If you don’t, you still complete the full 50km course, earn your finisher medal, and take part in one of Dorset’s most memorable coastal runs. Beating the Ferry is a side challenge for those who want it, not the purpose of the race.
Run your race. Let the Ferry come to you
Where to Stay – Race HQ at Knoll House
Knoll House Hotel serves as Race HQ and is an ideal base for runners travelling from further afield.
Located just opposite Knoll Beach, the hotel is within walking distance of the registration point and close to the start area. It offers comfortable accommodation, good food, and a calm environment to rest before and after the race.
Staying nearby removes stress on race morning and lets you focus on the run, not logistics.
Food, Coffee and Pre-Race Fuel
The Studland area has limited but reliable food options, including Knoll Beach Café, which is popular with runners and early-morning walkers.
Race HQ at Knoll House provides access to proper meals, space to relax, and a warm environment pre- and post-run. Many runners choose to eat and hydrate well the evening before and keep race-morning intake simple.
Life bases on course are fully stocked to support the full distance.
Gear and preparation
This is a trail race that rewards comfort and control over aggressive racing.
Trail shoes with good grip for mixed terrain are essential. A lightweight pack or belt suitable for mandatory kit is recommended, even in dry conditions. Poles are optional but may help on longer climbs and later stages of the race.
If you’re unsure about footwear or setup, Running Free offers gait analysis and trail shoe advice in Dorset and is a great local resource for preparing properly.
Test everything in training. Nothing new on race day.
For local runners, Running Free offers gait analysis and trail shoe advice in Dorset.
Getting There
Start Area:
Knoll Beach, Studland, Dorset
Studland is accessible by road via Corfe Castle and Swanage, or by chain ferry from Sandbanks. Parking is available at National Trust car parks near Knoll Beach. Runners staying locally are encouraged to walk to the start where possible.
Allow extra time in summer for coastal traffic and ferry queues.
Preparing for the Day
Beat the Ferry is about planning, pacing, and experience.
Study the route, respect the environment, and arrive ready to enjoy the run. This is not a closed course and will be shared with other trail users, so awareness and courtesy matter throughout.
If you prepare well, the route gives back far more than it take.
Ready to Run?
Beat the Ferry is about preparation, pacing and enjoying one of Dorset’s most iconic trail routes.
