The Great Knaresborough Bed Race

03/06/2026
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The Great Knaresborough Bed Race

Is Your Team Taking Part? Meet the 90 Teams Entering the Great Knaresborough Bed Race 2026

There’s nothing quite like Bed Race day in Knaresborough.

On Saturday, June 13, thousands of people will line the streets for one of Yorkshire’s most famous events as the Great Knaresborough Bed Race 2026 returns with its colourful parade, outrageous costumes and unforgettable race through the town.

This year, teams will be embracing the theme “The Swinging Sixties”, meaning spectators can expect everything from flower power and Beatles-inspired creations to psychedelic designs and plenty of surprises.

Whether you’re supporting friends, family, work colleagues or your local school, here’s your chance to see who’s taking part before the big day.

Why Everyone Loves Bed Race

Since 1966, Bed Race has been a highlight of the Knaresborough calendar.

The event combines a spectacular parade of decorated beds with a gruelling 2.4-mile race featuring steep climbs, fast descents and the famous plunge through the River Nidd.

It’s a challenge that tests teamwork, fitness and creativity—and it’s all organised by the volunteer-run Knaresborough Lions Club to raise money for local good causes.

Spot Your Team in the 2026 Line-Up

Schools & Education

King James’s Staff
KJS Sixth Form 2026
St John Fisher Harrogate
Aspin Park Academy Staff
Aspin Park Academy Parents
St Mary’s Primary School
All Saints Primary School, Kirkby Overblow
Manor Preschool
HGS Science
Knaresborough St John’s Teachers
Knaresborough St John’s Parents
Techbuyer & St Peter’s Primary School

Sports Clubs & Running Teams

Knaresborough Striders Ladies Team
Knaresborough Striders Mixed Bed 2
Ripon Runners Ladies
Ripon Runners Social Team
Wetherby Runners
Sherburn Runners
Stray Runners
Parkrunners
New Park Pacers
Knaresborough Town AFC
Knaresborough Town Over 30s
Knaresborough RUFC
Harrogate District Swimming Club
Starbeck Tennis Club Ladies
Armed Forces Fitness
Black Wolf Fitness
DM Fitness

Charities & Community Groups

Saint Michael’s Hospice
Open Arms Malawi
Mums’ Minds Matter
Harrogate Neighbours Heroes
Friends of Alfie Martin
Harrogate Round Table
Knaresborough Air Cadets
1st Knaresborough (Castle) Scouts
1st Scriven Scout Group
MOGS (Mums of Goldsborough School)

Businesses & Workplaces

GH Brooks Mens
G H Brooks Counter Crew
Raworths Solicitors
Switalskis Solicitors
Barker and Stonehouse
HG Consulting Engineers
Guardian Alarms
VP Credit Control Team
Team YNYCA
Menwith Hill
Kingfisher Kiosk
Manor House On The Move

Music, Heritage & Special Interest Groups

Harrogate Symphony Orchestra
Knaresborough Silver Band
Fountains Abbey and Brimham Rocks
Harrogate Town AFC Community Foundation
Nidd Valley Bees
Nidd Valley Mixed
Nidd Valley Juniors
HACS 01
HACS 02
Aspin Avengers
Scorchers Strikers
The Track & Sleeper

The Question Everyone Will Be Asking…

Who will have the best bed?

Who will survive the river crossing?

And who will be crowned Bed Race champions in 2026?

With 90 teams competing and thousands expected to pack the route, this year’s event is shaping up to be one of the biggest and most colourful yet.

Planning to Watch?

Arrive early to enjoy the famous parade through the town centre, secure a good viewing spot and keep an eye out for family members, friends, colleagues and local organisations taking part.

The parade is often just as entertaining as the race itself, with months of planning and bed-building finally revealed on the streets of Knaresborough.

Are You Taking Part?

Let us know which team you’ll be supporting this year and share your photos from Bed Race day.

For race details, route information, timings and donations, visit www.bedrace.co.uk.