General Questions
Q. What is the Illuminator Night Trail Race?
A: The Illuminator Run is a thrilling night-time trail race held on the stunning Glen Tanar Estate and starts in Aboyne, Scotland. Participants run through forest trails and rugged terrain, guided by head torches and glow markers. People love our legendary Light Zone and the great camaraderie between participants.
Q. When and where does the race take place?
A: The Illuminator Run takes place on 25th October 2025. The event registration and start are at the Deeside Community Centre and Swimming Pool in Aboyne.
Q: What distances can I run or walk?
A: There are 3 distances to test your mettle:
- 8km – you can run or walk this distance.
- 15km – you can run or walk this distance
- 15 miles – open to runners only.
Q: Who can participate?
A: The age limits are as follows:
- 8km – open to anyone 14 or upwards
- 15km – open to anyone 16 or upwards
- 15 miles – open to anyone 18 and above.
Q: How do I register?
A: Registration is here. Entries close on the Tuesday before the race or when capacity is reached.
Q: Are spectators allowed?
A: Spectators are welcome at the start/finish area. However, access to the trail itself is restricted for safety reasons.
Pre-Event Information
Q: Do I need a head torch?
A: Yes! You will need a head torch that produces at least 160 lumens. Please see our full kit list here.
Q: Is there a cut-off time for completing the race?
A: Yes, cut-off times are in place to ensure participant safety. All runners need to be at checkpoint 8 near the Light Zone by 22:00. This is approximately 2.5 miles/4.5km from the finish.
Q: Can I change my run distance?
A: Changes to run distances can be made up to the Tuesday before the Illuminator. There will be an admin fee for such changes in the sum of £10. Please email us on info@illuminator.co.uk.
Q: My query is not listed. How can I get in touch with you?
A: Contact us on info@illuminator.co.uk
Race Day Logistics
Q: What time do I need to arrive?
A: Registration opens around 4pm on race day.
Q: What facilities are there at registration?
A: There will be toilets at the Community Centre along with a bag drop.
Q: Is there parking at the venues?
A: Yes, parking is available at the Community Centre, but this tends to fill up quickly. Please be considerate and do not park on the nearby streets. Please use the car parks in Aboyne and walk the short distance to the start.
Q: Will there be medical support?
A: The safety and welfare of our participants is paramount. There will be Paramedics and First Aiders at the event, all highly experienced at supplying the highest calibre of comprehensive medical cover in remote environments.
On the Run Course
Q: Are there any aid stations?
A: Yes, there is an aid station at the Light Zone where all three routes converge which has water, food and hot drinks. There is an additional aid station at the 8-mile point on the 15-mile route.
Q: What is the terrain like?
A: The route includes forest paths, uneven trails, and Craigendinnie Hill so there is plenty of elevation! Proper trail-running shoes are highly recommended.
Post-Race Information
Q: Will there be refreshments after the run?
A: We will provide a hot drink and some food after the race at the Community Centre. There will also be catering options available for purchase on-site.
Q: Do I get a medal or memento?
A: Every participant receives an Illuminator gift to commemorate their achievement.
Q: Are photos available after the event?
A: Yes, professional event photos will be available on our Facebook page in the week after the race. We cannot guarantee to get a photo of you at the race, but they will be free to download from our page.