On Easter Monday, 500 runners will take part in the Halifax Urban Trail, a 10km race that winds through the town's historic buildings, including the minster, town hall, and Piece Hall. Organisers believe it is the first event of its kind in the UK.
The race was conceived by Andrew Bibby after he participated in a similar urban trail in Fougères, France, where runners dashed through a chateau, theatre, and church. Inspired by Halifax's architecture, Bibby approached building owners, who all agreed to open their doors for the event.
Among the participants is 80-year-old Kay Pierce, who has been running since her 30s. She called the idea "a crazy, great idea" and plans to enjoy the morning with friends. The route also includes the market, Dean Clough art gallery, and other iconic venues.
Nicky Chance-Tompson, chief executive of the Piece Hall, said the venue was eager to participate, highlighting the event's focus on heritage and community. The Rev Canon Hilary Barber, vicar of Halifax, noted that the minster welcomes everyone, and the race reinforces that message.
Entrants come from across the UK, including Leeds, Cardiff, and Somerset. Bibby hopes the race will showcase Halifax's architecture and boost the local economy, challenging perceptions of the town as merely industrial.
