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 Norwich Yacht Station, our intrepid team will tackle approximately 20 miles of waterways as they journey through the River Wensum, onto the River Bure and through the heart of the Norfolk Broads, before finally reaching 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.
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.
