The Dark Run

Experience iconic venues across South East and West Wales while fundraising for Tŷ Hafan this Halloween.

 

Dark Run family

What is the Dark Run?

The Dark Run is a series of epic Halloween fun runs in support of Tŷ Hafan, returning this October!

As the nights draw in, we’re lighting up some of Wales’ most loved destinations for a glowing experience.

If you’re looking for family activities for Halloween, the Dark Run is for you!

 

 

Each family-friendly Dark Run route is around 2.5 kilometres and this year’s locations are:

 

Cyfarthfa Castle, Merthyr Tydfil

This epic 2.5k spooky fun run starts in the castle grounds, giving you gorgeous views of the lake. Then, you’ll go towards the gardens and wooded country park, where there will be spooky surprises waiting for you. But don’t fret – they won’t be too scary for the little ones!

17th October 2025

Learn more.

Bute Park, Cardiff

This fantastic 2.5k spooky fun run takes you through historic Bute Park in the heart of Cardiff city centre. Your run will take you past the Gorsedd Stone Circle, up past Blackfriars Friary, along the path next to the river Taff towards the orchard lawn.

18th October 2025

Learn more.

National Botanic Garden of Wales, Carmarthen

This awesome 2.5k two-lap spooky fun run starts in Millennium Square. Your route will take you through gardens, past water features, and around the Great Glass House – the largest single-span glass house in the world – before returning to Millennium Square for another lap, if you dare!

We have lit up parts of the grounds for this event, and you can expect music and entertainment along the way.

25th October 2025

Learn more.

Download your Dark Run sponsorship forms below:

English

Cymraeg

 

Do the Dark Run your way!

This is a fantastic Halloween event for families of all ages, groups of friends and colleagues or solo runners.

Halloween-themed or brightly coloured fancy dress is optional… but strongly encouraged! The person wearing the best costume will win a prize.

 

On the day of the Dark Run

 

The event village opens 45 minutes before the fun run begins

We’ll give you a glowstick and bottle of water at registration, and then you’ll head over to the stage area for a warmup

When you finish the route, you’ll be greeted with a bespoke glow-in-the-dark medal.

The timings of each event are different, so please check your chosen location below.

The Dark Run

Dark Run ticket options

For this year’s Dark Run, we’ll be offering two different types of ticket options: fundraising tickets and non-fundraising tickets.

Fundraising Tickets

These tickets are at a lower price, with a fundraising commitment of £50 per family/group

  • Adult – £10 + booking fees
  • Child – £5 + booking fees
  • Under 3s – Free
  • Family of 4 – £25 + booking fees

Please note: By purchasing a fundraising ticket, you agree to raise a minimum of £50 per family/group in support of Tŷ Hafan.

Booking fees apply and will be added at checkout.

 

Non-Fundraising Tickets

These tickets are priced higher, with no fundraising commitment required.

  • Adult – £20 + booking fees
  • Child – £15 + booking fees
  • Under 3s – Free
  • Family of 4 – £50 + booking fees

Please note: Non-fundraising tickets come with no fundraising obligation.

Booking fees apply and will be added at checkout.

Fundraising

The best part is that taking part in this Halloween fun run will change lives.

Your entry fees and sponsorship money will help children and families across Wales who need support through the challenges of life-shortening conditions, end-of-life care and bereavement.

 

Supporting you all the way

Whether you’re a seasoned fundraiser or thinking about doing your first challenge event, we just wanted to let you know we’re here for you.

Our hugely experienced Fundraising team can answer all your questions, provide you with a boost when you need it, and simply make doing an event a whole lot easier.

So, please don’t hesitate to contact us at events@tyhafan.org or on 029 20 532255. Our favourite topics include detailed info about specific events and fundraising tips to help get the money rolling in.