Mental Elf Fun Run
Mental Elf – 30th November 2025!
Mental Elf 2024
FAQs
What is Mental Elf?
Mental Elf is a 5K Festive Fun Run designed to boost community spirit and mental wellbeing, whilst also raising money for our new children and young people mental health service. Mental Elf is a family friendly event and we welcome runners (and walkers) of all abilities, as well as children and corporate teams.
Thank you to Lancashire Mind who created the original concept of Mental Elf.
Where and when?
The run takes place at Conyngham Hall, Knaresborough, HG5 9AY. The 2025 date will be 30th November.
9.30 am – registration opens
10.00 am – entertainment from Harrogate rock choir
10.30 am – fancy dress competition, including best dressed dog!
11.00 am – run starts
What time do I need to arrive?
Registration opens from 9.30am, please arrive no later than 10.30 to allow time to get registered and down to the start line. There will be lots of entertainment while we get everyone registered, so please come early to join in the fun!
Timings:
9.30 am – registration opens
10.00 am – entertainment from Harrogate rock choir
10.30 am – fancy dress competition, including best dressed dog!
11.00 am – run starts
What is the route?
This is 5k route which is the same as the Conyngham Hall parkrun. Please see more details here: Conyngham Hall parkrun
Thank you to the fabulous parkrun team for their support with setting out the route.
Where can I park?
Pay and display parking is available at the venue (Conyngham Hall).
Can I get there via public transport?
Yes! We encourage the use of public transport where possible. Conyngham Hall is just a short walk from Knaresborough train station and the local bus stop at High Bridge, Knaresborough. Please note that the event is on a Sunday so services may be more limited than on a weekday.
What shall I wear?
Festival fancy dress is encouraged! Think elf ears, reindeer antlers, Santa hats, tinsel garlands!
Can I bring my dog?
Yes – but for insurance reasons, dogs must be kept on a short lead. Don’t forget fancy dress for your pooch!
Are children welcome?
Yes! This is a family friendly event. Children can enter but must be accompanied by an adult.
Is this a timed event?
No, this is a fun run so there will be no running times recorded. However, many keen runners will track their time themselves using Strava or other running apps.
Do I have to run?
No! You can walk, jog or run. There is no time limit!
How much does it cost?
Adult tickets are £15, and children are priced at £12. Group discounts and early bird tickets are available.
Are there any group discounts?
Yes! We offer a team of 8 runners and a family of 4 runners, both at discounted rates.
Is there an early bird discount?
Yes! There is an ‘Eager Elf’ discount of 20% that is automatically applied to tickets purchased before 5th October.
Can I get sponsored for my run?
Absolutely! Please create your special Mental Elf Just Giving page here.
Where does my entry fee go?
Proceeds from this event will go to Mind in Harrogate District (registered charity no. 1151271) to help us fund a new service for children and young people’s mental health.
What’s included in my entry fee?
Your entry fee includes a place in the run, your runner number, a medal (which doubles as a Christmas decoration) and a goody bag!
I can't attend, can I make a donation?
Absolutely. Thank you. Please click here to make a donation to our Mental Elf Campaign on Just Giving.
With thanks to our Sponsors and Supporters
