The Ridley Round is more of a trek across the Essex countryside, than a race. It is a 13 mile route taking in 5 originally owned Ridley pubs, starting and finishing at the Compasses, Littley Green. Ridley’s is a famous Essex brewery at Hartford End, founded in 1842, it was taken over in 2005 by Green King and contrary to promises the brewery was closed down. The orginal buildings were derelict for a number of years, before recently being renovated and is now a small, sort-after residential estate. The 5 pubs have all survived and are mainly under private ownership.

The route is not marked and each runner gets an instruction sheet on how to get to each pub. Virtually the entire route is on footpaths and bridleways. Some runners go for a fast time, but for many it is gentle jog or walk with friends, family or fellow club runners, having a pint in each pub. There is also a time-incentive to buy a drink at each pub, which is a good income source for the rural pubs. There is no medal or t-shirt at the end, but each runner gets a £2 voucher to spend at the Compasses.

The event is organised by Essex Trail Runners, who organise a number of trail event, these can be found at Essex Trail Events