FAQs

Here you can find quick answers to some common questions we get asked.

What makes Nuclear so awesome

Nuclear Races challenge all levels of fitness ability & ages, testing courage, determination, teamwork & physical strength. Based on permanent farmland with mud, woods, rivers, lakes & fields Nuclear pushes participant’s limits over a fun combination of big & small obstacles packed on award winning courses which are mixed up at every event.

General
About Nuclear

How competitive is Nuclear?

Nuclear events are 99% non-competitive. There are generally two types of participants who take part at Nuclear – running for fun or fast, furious fitties who’re out to prove they’re the best. The only competitive race is the NUCLEAR CHALLENGE CUP wave at Nuclear Rush where winning the cup, prizes & leader board recognition is what it’s all about. Whatever your mindset is on race-day particpants are always encouraged to help each other – it’s the Nuclear way.

General
About Nuclear

What is Nuclear’s mission?

There’s a whole behind the scenes crew who make up Nuclear, to meet the HQ team. You can meet them

General
About Nuclear

Where are my race results?

Results will be posted on our website as soon as the chip timing team have verified them (24 hrs after your race). Please bear with us while this is being done. Any timing queries email results@racetimingsolutions.co.uk

Fit, Mud Tribe, Races
Results and Photos

Where are my race photos?

Your free finishers photo and the optional actionPhotos to purchase will be available to download/share/email from our website nuclear-races.co.uk and facebook.com/TheNuclearRaces/ about 48 hours after the event.

General, Races
Results and Photos

How long are the sessions?

Session lengths vary by activity — from 30 minutes to up to 2 hours.

Adventures
General

How old do you need to be for the High Ropes Activity?

The minimum age for the high ropes course is 6 yrs and participants must be 1.20m tall. Adults will need to participate to supervise 6-7yr olds. Ratio of 1 adult to every 2 children so you can help them with the safety system and avoid them becoming over tired and frustrated. Of course, we encourage parents to join in with their children too, turning it into a family fun activity!

Adventures
High Ropes

How old do you need to be for the Zip Trek Course

The minimum age for the Zip Trek course is 8 yrs and participants must be 1.20 m tall. Adults will need to participate to supervise any under 18 year olds. 1 adult can supervise up to 6 under 18 year old partici80pants

Adventures
Zip Trek

How old do you need to be for the Axe Throwing experience?

We offer 2 types of Axe and Knife throwing sessions, our Full Axe and Knife session is suitable for participants aged 13 and older. for those under 13 we offer an Angel Knife taster session that is suitable for participants 10 years and older. All axe and Knife Participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied on the range by and adult (18+) to supervise behaviour.

Adventures, Wild Forest
Axe & Knife Throwing

How old do you need to be for the Air Rifle Taster session

Our Air Rifle taster session are suitable for participants aged 14 years old and above. all under 18 year old participants must be supervised at the range by and adult (18+).

Adventures
Air Rifles

What should I wear for Axe Throwing?

Wear comfortable layers and sturdy closed-toe shoes. Avoid clothing with hoods for safety.

Adventures
Axe & Knife Throwing, Top 10

Do I need to participate with my children on the High Ropes?

It depends on your child’s age and ability — some children must be accompanied by a paying adult, but participation isn’t always required.

Adventures
High Ropes, Top 10

Do I need to participate with my children?

All children must be accompanied by a paying, participating adult when taking part in our Zip Trek experience; this is so that you can supervise their behaviour and ensure everyone is following the safety rules for the activity. 1 adult can supervise up to 6 under 18 year olds.

Adventures
Top 10, Zip Trek

Do I need to participate with my children?

Any under 18 year olds must have an adult at the Throwing range to supervise behaviour and ensure everyone is following all the safety rules, we encourage parents to join in with their children, turning it into a family activity.

Adventures
Axe & Knife Throwing, Top 10

Do I have to remain on site?

A responsible adult (over 18) has to remain onsite at Nuclear Adventures at all times while children under 18 take part in our sessions. Responsible adults must be in visual contact with children under 18 at all times to support them from the ground and supervise behaviour. An adult must sign waivers for any youths aged 18.

Adventures
General, High Ropes, Top 10, Zip Trek

Are there any weight restrictions?

The maximum weight for taking part in our High Ropes and Zip Trek course is 120kg

Adventures
High Ropes, Zip Trek

Do I have to be fit?

A degree of personal fitness is required to complete our courses and we would ask you to be honest with yourself about your level of fitness. You can take a breather after each section and of course you can choose to do just some of our 6 sections each time you visit.

Adventures
High Ropes

I’m afraid of heights, can I still participate?

Yes! We’ll prepare you first and support you throughout. Many people surprise themselves and overcome their fears.

Adventures
High Ropes

What happens if I fall?

Your safety equipment will prevent you from falling far, so if you do slip off an element, you will be quite safe while you climb back on and continue on your journey. If you can’t manage to climb up without help then one of our crew will be happy to talk you through and help you out.

Adventures
High Ropes

Can I get drinks on site?

There is a large cabin with toilets, outdoor seating with a view of the ropes course. We have a vending machine with cold drinks and snacks and free tea and coffee available for spectators.

Adventures
General

Can I Spectate?

You are welcome to come and watch other family members participate free of charge. Spectator viewing is from our picnic area as well as footpaths around all the courses. Please bear in mind we are based in a woodland setting – there are shallow steps from the car park to our site and all our paths are wood chip. Larger, big wheeled pushchairs seem to manage without too many problems. Once you have reached our site there is a decking area and an indoor chalet with double doors for access. Facilities include toilets, seating, free WIFI, hot & cold drinks and a vending machine.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my activity?

Nuclear Adventures is an all-weather outdoor experience. We stay open in most conditions, but extreme weather may affect your booking.

Adventures
Air Rifles, Axe & Knife Throwing, General, High Ropes, Top 10, Zip Trek

Are dogs allowed?

Well behaved dogs are welcome in our picnic area and activity areas; however, they must remain on a lead while visiting.

Adventures
Air Rifles, Axe & Knife Throwing, General, High Ropes, Zip Trek

I am disabled, can I join in?

We aim to be fully inclusive and will do everything we can to help disabled clients participate.

Adventures
Air Rifles, Axe & Knife Throwing, General, High Ropes, Zip Trek

Can I wear glasses?

You can wear glasses when climbing but a retainer must be worn. Bring one or hire one at the cabin on the day (£5 refundable deposit).

Adventures
High Ropes, Zip Trek

How long before our session do we need to arrive?

Your session will start at the time you have booked, we ask that all participants are on site a minimum of 10 minutes before your session time to sign in and use the facilities.

Adventures
Air Rifles, Axe & Knife Throwing, High Ropes, Top 10, Zip Trek

Can I add additional people to my booking?

Yes you can book additional participants to your session online providing there’s availability (you can check online) or to avoid disappointment get in touch with us before you arrive adventures@nuclearessex.com.

Adventures
Air Rifles, Axe & Knife Throwing, High Ropes, Zip Trek

One of our booked participants can no longer make the session, can we replace that booking/waiver with someone else?

You are welcome to bring another person along with you. You must amend the participants name using your booking portal and have them complete a new Risk Acknowledgement and Disclaimer.

Adventures
Air Rifles, Axe & Knife Throwing, High Ropes, Zip Trek

Can I book a party if I have less than 10 guests?

We can host parties of any size. For smaller groups, please book onto one of our standard sessions. Your guests may receive their safety brief along side other guests before enjoying the same experience as they would as a larger group.

Adventures
Parties, Top 10

Can I bring my own food?

You are welcome to bring your own food and drink to either enjoy in our picnic area or in our Den (subject to hire).

Adventures
Parties

Is there an area we can have cake/food?

Groups are welcome to free use of our outdoor picnic area. Alternatively book our Den for your own dedicated indoor space.

Adventures
Parties

Do you supply food?

There are no catering facilities onsite. We recommend either bringing your own food or ordering Pizza to be delivered via Brentwood Dominoes. If you quote NUCLEAR they will give you up to 50% discount. The party organiser needs to make the order by phoning 01277 219999 the day before party.

Adventures, Wild Forest
Parties, Top 10

Do we have a dedicated staff member?

Depending on the size of your group, one of our team will take your guests through our safety brief. Once on the course our team are on hand to supervise the safety of your group as they enjoy our course. We recommend supervising adults make themselves familiar with the safety system so they can support and encourage their guests from the ground.

Adventures
Parties

Do all parents need to sign the disclaimer?

Participants aged under 18 years old will need an adult (18+) to sign our Risk Acknowledgement and Disclaimer. These digital disclaimers can be sent to children's parent/legal guardian by the lead booker using the disclaimer portal.

Adventures
Parties, Top 10

Can children stay on the lower levels?

Our course is split into 3 height levels. All participants will start on our lower practice level. We believe in challenge by choice and will never force guests to do more than they are comfortable with. Due to the gradual change in height we often find that participants surprise themselves by going higher than they thought they would. If however children reach their limit on the lower levels they are free to stay on the lower level and try our challenges to continue to stretch themselves.

Adventures
High Ropes, Parties

What time should I hire the party den for?

The Party Den is available to hire by the hour and can either be hired solely for celebrating after your activity or as a base for the duration of your event. If hiring for after your activity we recommend starting your hire for 15mins before your activity is due to finish.

Adventures
Parties, Top 10

Can we decorate the Party Den?

We want your celebration to be special, so you are welcome to decorate the Party Den while you are with us. We ask that all decorations are removed when your booking is over.

Adventures
Parties, Top 10

Can I pay a deposit?

In order to secure your session, payment must be made in full at time of booking.

Adventures
Parties

Can I make amendments to my booking?

Additional participants can be added to your booking (subject to availability) up to the day of your event. You are free to reduce the number of participants on your booking up to 48hrs before your event. Reductions made within 7 days will be issued via gift voucher

Adventures
Parties

Do you provide party invites?

We have downloadable invites available below

Adventures, Wild Forest
Parties

How early should we arrive?

Please aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before your party start time and check in at reception to ensure you can begin your adventure on time. Your session will start at the booked time and anyone arriving late may miss out on taking part in the experience.

Adventures
Parties

Can we arrive without a booking?

Our activities begin at set times and have a maximum capacity. While you are welcome to ask at reception and check availability you may find you have to wait for our next availability. We always recommend booking in advance so you can guarantee space on your preferred session.

Adventures
Air Rifles, Axe & Knife Throwing, High Ropes, Zip Trek

Do I need to complete a waiver in advance?

Yes, all participants will need to complete our Risk Acknowledgment and Disclaimer before you arrive. The lead booker will receive a link to these with their confirmation email and will be asked to forward them to everyone participating

Adventures
Air Rifles, Axe & Knife Throwing, High Ropes, Top 10, Zip Trek

Can I reschedule my session?

Sessions can be rescheduled without charge, we must have a minimum of 48hrs notice and multiple changes are prohibited. To reschedule your booking please use the Manage my booking link in your confirmation email.

Adventures
Air Rifles, Axe & Knife Throwing, High Ropes, Zip Trek

Is there parking on-site?

We have a large FREE carpark available for participants and spectators.

Adventures
General

Can I do more than one activity in a day?

We have a range of activities available and offer 15% Off any bookings that include 2 or more Nuclear Adventure activities

Adventures
Air Rifles, Axe & Knife Throwing, General, High Ropes, Top 10, Zip Trek

Is there somewhere to store belongings while I’m taking part?

We have lockers on site that are free to use during your time with us.

Adventures
Air Rifles, Axe & Knife Throwing, General, High Ropes, Parties, Zip Trek

Can adults and children go on the course together?

All participants follow the same journey and all members of your group will stay together throughout.

Adventures
High Ropes, Top 10, Zip Trek

Is there an instructor or are we on our own?

Your journey will start with and safety brief with one of our trained instructing team. Once on the course your safety will be monitored by the team from the ground. In the event that you need support on the course we can access the course if necessary.

Adventures
High Ropes, Top 10, Zip Trek

What is the Big Drop, and how do I add it to my booking?

The Big drop is our 50ft fan descender and can be added to your booking at checkout or once on site.

Adventures
High Ropes, Zip Trek

How many zip wires are included in a Zip Trek session?

Our Zip Trek session consists of 13 Zip wires of varying length and heights

Adventures
Zip Trek

Do I need to climb anything or is it all zips?

Our Zip Trek course starts with a spiral stairway that takes you around the trunk of our 1st tree. A second stairway is also present further around the course.

Adventures
Zip Trek

Can I take photos or videos while on the zip wires?

Cameras and phones are permitted on the course provided they are attached/secure at all times. We sell lanyards that can be used for that purpose.

Adventures
Zip Trek

Do you provide all the equipment?

everything you need to enjoy our Air Rifle taster session is provided for you including safety goggles, rifles and pellets.

Adventures
Air Rifles

What do I need to bring?

Bring photo ID and your check-in email. We will send the check-in pass 3 weeks before the event and again the week of the race. Bring a change of clothes, shoes & towel. A black bin bag for your post race wet kit is a good idea too.

Mud Tribe, Races
What to wear and bring

What should I wear?

Wear fast-drying, breathable clothing and trail trainers with good grip. Avoid cotton and footwear without traction.

Mud Tribe, Races, Wild Forest
What to wear and bring

How long does it take to get round the Nuclear Races course?

RUSH 6K approx. 1.5-2.5 hrs 12K approx. 2-3 hrs FALLOUT 6K approx. 1-2.5 hrs 12K approx. 2-3.5 hrs ROOKIES Allow approx. 45mins

Races
Obstacles and course

How long does it take to get round the Mud Tribe course?

It will depend on your fitness ability. We would expect it to take you around 60-90 minutes to run 5K and 30-45 minutes for the 1.5k course

Mud Tribe
Obstacles and course

Do I need to be super fit to take part at Nuclear Races?

Not at all! Nuclear Races is designed to challenge all abilities, ages and fitness levels. Whether you want to walk, jog or run, you can go at your own pace.

Mud Tribe, Races
Training and preparation

How can I prepare for Nuclear Races?

Training for Nuclear Races gives you a full-body workout. Mix running, strength training, and mobility exercises to build endurance and confidence.

Mud Tribe, Races
Training and preparation

I’m booked to race the 12K – can I decide to do the 6K instead?

If you’re signed up for the 12K, you can choose to switch to the 6K on race day. The 6K/12K split is clearly marked on the course, so you can make the decision when you reach it. However, you cannot switch from the 6K to the 12k. Only drop downs from 12K to 6K are allowed.

Races
Obstacles and course

Do I need to be able to swim to take part in Nuclear Races?

Some swimming ability can help, but it is not essential. Buoyancy vests and trained water safety teams are available at all water-based obstacles.

Mud Tribe, Races
Obstacles and course

Can I skip obstacles during the race?

You can attempt as many or as few obstacles as you like, it’s your race and your challenge. There are no penalties for missing or failing an obstacle.

Mud Tribe, Races
Obstacles and course

Do 6K and 12K runners start together? How will I know where to go?

6K and 12K runners start in the same wave and run together. The course split is well sign posted on course. You won’t miss it!

Races
Obstacles and course, On the day

Is there a bag drop at Nuclear Races?

There’s a free, staffed bag drop available. You’ll leave it before your race and collect it when you finish. Please note, while the bag drop is staffed, items are left at your own risk.

Fit, Mud Tribe, Races
On the day

Can I camp onsite?

Free onsite camping is available. You can book at the time of registration or add it later via your booking dashboard.

Fit, Mud Tribe, Races
On the day

Is there a wash-down area and changing rooms after the race?

We have an outdoor hot water wash-down at the finish zone. Please follow the wash-down procedure to help us get you warm and dry quickly. Showers are limited in time to avoid queues, so please don’t bring shampoo or soap—save that for home! Listen to our marshals’ instructions to move efficiently toward your bag, hot drinks, warm clothes, and the heated changing tent. Please be considerate of the cold person waiting behind you!

Races
Post-race essentials

I’m having problems booking – what should I do?

If you’re having trouble making a booking, try switching to a different device or browser this often fixes common technical issues or email races@nuclearessex.com

Fit, Mud Tribe, Races
Help and Support

What’s included with my Nuclear Races ticket?

Your ticket includes a finisher’s medal, car parking, photos, changing facilities, refreshments, camping, and more.

Races
Before you race

What is the Mighty Mudallion Medal?

The Mighty Mudallion is our ultimate reward for those who take on and conquer three totally different Nuclear events in a single year. Complete: 1. May - Rush Saturday, Sunday or Oblivion Extreme 2. September - Mud Tribe 3. November - Fallout or Oblivion Samhain 4. Any Nuclear Fit race The mighty Mudallion can be collected in event village at Mud Tribe, Fallout or Nuclear Fit in September at the Mudallion pick up point.

Mud Tribe, Races
Registration

Can I show my check-in pass at registration on my mobile?

Absolutely, you can bring your check-in pass on your phone or as a printed paper copy. Just make sure you’re ready to show it, along with your ID and check-in pass email, when you reach the registration desk. This helps keep things moving smoothly.

Fit, Mud Tribe, Races
On the day

I haven’t received my email confirmation or check-in pass, what should I do?

Check all email accounts you may have used to book your ticket (work, home etc.) and don’t forget to look in junk/spam folders. Try searching your inbox using "NUCLEAR RACES LTD" as a keyword. If you still can’t find it, please contact races@nuclearessex.com

Fit, Mud Tribe, Races
Help and Support

If I miss my wave start, can I join the next one?

If you miss your start wave, speak to registration to move you to the next available wave. Correct wristbands are required to race.

Fit, Mud Tribe, Races
Before you race, On the day

Where’s my race number?

We don’t use race numbers. Instead, you’ll receive a QR code in your check-in email, which you’ll use on race day.

Fit, Mud Tribe, Races
Before you race

Can my obstacle racing ticket be refunded?

We do not offer refunds, but you can transfer your ticket to another event or person up to 48 hours before race day.

Fit, Mud Tribe, Races
Transfers and refunds

How do I create a team?

Select the team option during booking and sign up as the Team Captain. You’ll create a team name and reserve spaces for your team. Once booked, you’ll receive a confirmation email with the team name share this with your team so they can join. The spaces for the team are reserved for 30 days only. Each team member must register using their own email address to receive their race pack, race results and photo links.

Mud Tribe, Races
Teams and group bookings

Why should I create a team?

Creating a team is one of the best ways to experience Nuclear Races. Here’s why: Discounted entry – Teams of 10 or more (adult racers, Rush & Fallout only) qualify for discounted tickets. Guaranteed wave times – Team Captains can reserve a wave time for their group. Team spirit – Running side-by-side in matching kit, team shirts or fancy dress brings extra camaraderie and makes for brilliant photos.

Mud Tribe, Races
Teams and group bookings

What’s the minimum team size?

The minimum is 5 and there is no maximum. We offer a discount on Rush and Fallout Adults tickets only for groups of 10 or more.

Mud Tribe, Races
Teams and group bookings

Do all team members need to sign up at once?

The Team Captain can reserve spaces for up to 30 days. Team members can join any time within that window using the team link provided by the Captain.

Mud Tribe, Races
Teams and group bookings

How can people join my team?

The Team Captains has been sent a team creation email which has the link for new team members to join. If it is not in your inbox, please check your junk/spam.

Mud Tribe, Races
Teams and group bookings

How can I check who’s in my team?

The Team Captain should open their team creation email. This email will show everyone currently registered in the team and include a link for new team members to join.

Mud Tribe, Races
Teams and group bookings

Can I change the wave time for my team?

If you want to make any changes to a team entry you need to email races@nuclearessex.com

Fit, Mud Tribe, Races
Teams and group bookings

How do I increase my team size after booking?

Email races@nuclearessex.com with your team name, race date, and number of extra spaces needed. If space is available in your wave, we’ll extend your team size.

Mud Tribe, Races
Teams and group bookings

Do you charge a spectator fee?

Rush Weekend: £5 entry per non-runner (cash or card). Children 12 years and under enter free. Mud Tribe and Fallout: Spectator entry is free

Mud Tribe, Races
Spectators

What is included in a child’s race ticket?

Your ticket includes a Rookie Survivors Medal, Personalised certificate, photos, changing facilities, refreshments, and more.

Mud Tribe, Races
Rookies

How long are the children’s courses?

Rush Weekend Ages 4–8: 1 lap (1.5k) – 15+ obstacles Ages 9–14: 2 laps (3k) – 30+ obstacles Mud Tribe Age 4-6 : 1.5K - Ages 7+ : 5K - 17 + obstacles

Mud Tribe, Races
Rookies

How long does it take a child to complete the course?

Nuclear Races Rush Weekend Around 45 minutes depending on the child’s age, speed and ability. Mud Tribe 1.5km around 45 minutes depending on the child’s age, speed and ability. 5km around 90 minutes depending on the child’s age, speed and ability.

Mud Tribe, Races
Rookies

Are the children’s races competitive?

It is all about having a muddy good time and there are no prizes for fastest times. Every Rookie (child) receives a survivors medal & a downloadable certificate. At Nuclear Rush weekend we do offer a competitive race in the first wave on Saturday for Rookies (children) aged 9+ years

Races
Rookies

How old to children need to be to race?

Rush Weekend Rookies (children) aged 4–14 years can race: Ages 4–8: must be accompanied by a parent/guardian on the course Ages 9+: adult accompaniment is optional Mud Tribe aged 4+ years can race and must be accompanied by an adult

Mud Tribe, Races
Rookies

Can children skip obstacles?

There’s no pressure to complete every obstacle but we encourage the Rookies (children) to give it a go.

Mud Tribe, Races
Rookies

Do children need to be able to swim?

Swimming is not required, buoyancy aids are available on race day. At Wild Forest, everyone is fitted with a buoyancy aid when they enter the lake zone

Mud Tribe, Races, Wild Forest
Rookies

Can children in different age categories run together?

All age groups start the race together. The older children will complete an extra lap and wear a wristband.

Mud Tribe, Races
Rookies

Do I need to pay for a spectator ticket if my child is racing?

One free spectator ticket is included with every child (Rookie) race entry (to be claimed at registration). Rush Weekend: £5 spectator fee (cash or card) for everyone 12+ Mud Tribe: spectator entry is free

Mud Tribe, Races
Rookies, Spectators

Are spectators welcome?

Spectators are welcome at our events. Entry fees and access vary by event. Please follow signs and stay in designated areas.

Fit, Mud Tribe, Races, Wild Forest
On the day, Spectators, Top 10

Can I help my child over obstacles?

Ages 4–8: must be accompanied by an adult (free of charge) Ages 9+: adult is optional Adults run alongside and help when needed but do not complete the obstacles themselves. Expect to get muddy and wet. If you would like to get more involved please sign up for the family waves.

Mud Tribe, Races
Rookies

Are there changing and wash-down facilities?

Hot outdoor wash downs (limited time per person) Child-only changing areas available Bring clean clothes, shoes, towels and a plastic bag for your dirty clothes Please don’t bring shampoo or soap – wash downs are for rinsing only Follow marshal instructions for smooth changeover

Mud Tribe, Races
On the day, Post-race essentials

How can I buy the Nuclear Merch?

You can buy this online or on the day. The Nuclear Essex shop will be on site at each event for you to purchase kit by cash or card.

Mud Tribe, Races, Wild Forest
General, Top 10

Are there photos taken on course?

Yes — professional photographers from My Bib Number capture action shots throughout the course, including a free finisher’s wall photo.

Fit, Mud Tribe, Races
Results and Photos, Top 10

Are children chip timed and are results available?

All children (Rookies) wear a timing chip. Results will be published on the website, there is a free downloadable certificate with their result times on available.

Races
Rookies