Great Punt Run 2026
Bigger. Bolder. More challenging than ever before.
In 2026, the incredible supporters, staff and volunteers of the Nancy Oldfield Trust, together with pupils from Norwich School, are raising the bar for the much-loved Great Punt Run.
For the last five years, this unique challenge has seen participants travel from Norwich to Neatishead using the iconic Norfolk Punt. But this year, the adventure is evolving.
Setting off from above Norwich Yacht Station, our intrepid team will tackle approximately 50 miles of waterways as they journey through the River Wensum, River Yare, onto the River Bure and through the heart of the Norfolk Broads, before finally reaching the River Ant and the Nancy Oldfield Trust at Neatishead.
The challenge begins with a remarkable variety of craft. Participants will paddle through Norwich on stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), test their teamwork aboard a rafted canoe, and power themselves along in pedal-powered craft. Once they reach the outer Norwich, they will switch to the legendary Norfolk Punt, completing the final stages of the journey in the traditional way that has defined the event in previous years. The Punt will also be joined by a Trust owned Yeoman and sailed by a willing volunteer, jointly marking the finish of this epic adventure.
This year's challenge showcases not only endurance and determination, but also the spirit of innovation, teamwork and adventure that both the Nancy Oldfield Trust and Norwich School embody.
Raising Funds for a Truly Unique Charity
The Great Punt Run is raising vital funds for the Nancy Oldfield Trust, a charity that provides accessible boating experiences and accommodation on the Norfolk Broads for disabled and disadvantaged people.
For decades, the Trust has enabled thousands of individuals to enjoy the freedom, confidence and wellbeing that comes from spending time on the water. Through specially adapted boats, accessible facilities and dedicated support from staff and volunteers, the charity creates opportunities that many people would otherwise never have the chance to experience.
The funds raised from the 2026 Great Punt Run will help the Trust progress its plans to replace its jetty walkways, ensuring these essential access routes remain safe, secure and fully accessible for many years to come. These walkways are a vital part of the Trust's facilities, allowing guests of all abilities to access boats and enjoy everything the Broads has to offer.
Celebrating 100 Years of the Norfolk Punt Club
The 2026 event is made even more special as it coincides with the centenary year of the Norfolk Punt Club, which celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2026. The Club has a rich and fascinating history and remains the home of the iconic Norfolk Punt, a unique sailing craft that has become synonymous with the Broads. The Norfolk Punt Club is celebrating its centenary throughout 2026, marking 100 years since its founding.
Over many years, the Nancy Oldfield Trust and the Norfolk Punt Club have enjoyed a wonderful relationship, united by a shared passion for the Norfolk Broads, boating and enabling people to enjoy life on the water. It is therefore fitting that this year's Great Punt Run honours both the charity's ongoing work and the history of the craft that has made the challenge famous.
How You Can Help
The Great Punt Run 2026 will push participants physically and mentally as they paddle, pedal, sail and punt their way across the Norfolk Broads in support of an exceptional cause.
Every donation, large or small, will help the Nancy Oldfield Trust continue providing life-changing experiences and ensure its facilities remain accessible for future generations.
Please support our team, share our story, and help us make this year's Great Punt Run the most successful yet.
Together, we can help keep the Norfolk Broads accessible to everyone. ❤️