Our aim is to provide a platform for people of all ages and abilities to develop and improve their fitness and running ability in a friendly and sociable environment. We are based in Woodstock, Oxfordshire (map shows location of our usual run starting point at the Town Gate) and welcome members from the town and surrounding villages.
Woodstock Harriers train throughout the year. Please feel free to view our training programme. Come along and join in. All abilities are catered for and all are welcome. The club also runs WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram groups.
Training is fun and training with a group usually makes things easier. We look forward to seeing you soon. Any questions, please do Contact Us.
Oxford Clarion Magazine Article
Feeling sporty? A little outdoorsy? How about you add spikes, mud and long standing inter-club rivalry? Woodstock Harrier Ed King writes for the Clarion on the dubious pleasures of cross country running. Glorious writing, for runners and non-runners alike. Enjoy!
https://oxfordclarion.uk/to-hell-and-back-again-a-day-of-oxfordshire-xc
Ed King (number 1683) seen in action at the November 1st, Oxfordshire Cross Country League event at Hinton-in-the-Hedges. Ian Lee in the background (1697).
Woodstock 12 and (New) Woodstock 4
The two races were a great success with 143 finishers in the inaugural 4 Mile and 158 in the 12 Mile, first run 1980. Jonas Tipping (Radley AC) set the new course record for the 4 Mile in 22:37, whilst Alex Bampton (Swindon Harriers) was only 17 seconds behind James Bolton’s 12 Mile course record from 2012.
The Woodstock 12 was the final and deciding race of the Oxfordshire Athletics Association Road Race Grand Prix. Lizzie Kelly (Woodstock Harrier) was third in the overall female GP classification. The Harriers’ women’s team was second overall in the GP standings, whilst the men’s team was first in the “small” team classification.
Middle Barton 5k
Run, Walk, Bike, Scoot, Skate or Skip (or any other method you can think of!). 5k on roads/paths around Middle Barton on Sunday 22nd November at 10.30 am. Start and finish at Middle Barton Sports & Social Club (three words ///marathons.spud.aquatic). An informal 5k event for everyone of all abilities.
Parking available, but if you’re local please leave the car at home. Refreshments will be served before & after the event by @Tukels2025, with hot food available after the event in the Jubilee Room and the bar opens at 12noon.
Toilets & bag drop in the Jubilee Room – All belongings left at your own risk. Please use the outdoor toilets if you’re in muddy/wet shoes. In aid of South Central Ambulance Charity and organised by Vicky Walker, Woodstock Harrier. Booking link
Club Road and XC Handicap Competitions
Held for over 20 years, the club handicap competition allows members of differing abilities to compete against each other, adjusted using a system of time weights that aim to equalise performance at the start of the season and reward the best improved runners over a series of races. This year’s road races are all the Oxfordshire Grand Prix events plus the Mota-vation races, giving a total of 18 races. To gain maximum points, at least half the races (nine) have to be completed with the best nine results totalled for each participant. The list of races for 2026 and handicap allocated per racer are now available. If you believe that your handicap is unfair (or even too fair!) contact Mike Shipway to plead your case.
Starting November 2026, we are changing the performance calculations to an age-grading system. Mike Shipway says: age-grading is a way of measuring your athletics performance taking into account your age and sex. It enables you to produce a percentage score for each run or other athletics event based on how old you were when you did the competition and the comparative performance of world record holders taking into their age and event itself. As we get older it is reasonable to expect that we won’t be able to run at the speeds we achieved when we were young. This can be demotivating for runners who are ‘past their peak’ even if they are running well for their age. This year in the club handicap XC competition, there will be separate Men’s & Women’s competitions.
Find Your Place at Woodstock Harriers
No matter your goal – your first 5K, a competitive marathon, or an extreme ultra – we have members who share your passion. Join us for training, friendship, and the thrill of running in a supportive community.
New to Running?
Running can be daunting, but we’re here to help. Our Couch to 5K program is designed for beginners who want to build confidence, fitness, and friendships. With supportive coaches and a welcoming group, you’ll progress at your own pace. Remember – no one gets left behind! Details
Moving to Woodstock?
If you’re relocating and looking for a new running club, Woodstock Harriers could be your new home. We cater to all levels, from casual runners to serious competitors, offering structured training, social runs, and plenty of club spirit. Details
Seeking Something Different?
Maybe you’ve been running for a while and want a new challenge. Whether it’s a shift from roads to trails, solo runs to group camaraderie, or simply a fresh approach to training, we provide variety and motivation to keep running exciting. Details
Performance Runners
For those focused on speed, endurance, and competition, our structured sessions help you improve and hit your goals. We celebrate PBs, race wins, and major breakthroughs, but we also value the journey and the effort it takes to get there. Details
Adventure Running
If you love pushing boundaries and tackling epic events, you’ll find like-minded runners here. If you dream of conquering an ultra, navigating tough trails, or just finding adventurous spirits to share your journey, Woodstock Harriers is your perfect running tribe. Details
Officiating, Coaching and Organising
Gain the knowledge of how running operates in the big picture, as well as giving back to the sport. Opportunities exist to complete a wide range of training courses and progress upwards as an official, coach or organiser. Develop yourself and become a better person. Details