The 1956 International Cross Country Championships was held in Belfast, Northern Ireland, at the Royal Ulster Showground on 17 March 1956.

In addition, an unofficial women's championship was held the same day at Upminster, England on 17 March 1956.

Complete results for men,[3] and for women (unofficial),[4] medallists, [5] and the results of British athletes[6] were published.

An unofficial count yields the participation of 70 male athletes from 8 countries.

An unofficial count yields the participation of 12 female athletes from 2 countries.