Blackwater Trail Events Marathon

Blackwater Trail Events 2026

Blackwater Trail Events 2026 is organised by Hare & Tortoise Running and starts at Lockside Marina, Hill Road, Chelmsford, Essex. The route begins at the end of the Chelmer and Blackwater navigation and follows the waterway on trail, grass and tarmac footpaths through Essex countryside to Heybridge Basin, where the half marathon finishes.

The marathon continues from Heybridge Basin along the Saltmarsh coastal footpath past Goldhanger and then turns inland toward Tollesbury, where it finishes. Toilets are available at the start, Heybridge Basin and Tollesbury.

Support and logistics include a bag drop shuttle bus from the race start to Heybridge and Tollesbury to transfer bags to finish points. There are numerous car parks in Chelmsford; parking at Heybridge Basin and near the Tollesbury finish is available but may be limited. Route maps and full course details are provided by the organiser.

Cut-off times and checkpoints are published for both distances: half marathon finish and checkpoint at 3.5 hours for 13.1 miles; marathon finish and checkpoint at 7 hours for 27.5 miles.

Aid stations: there will be two on the half course and five on the marathon course. Stations will offer snacks such as jelly babies, flapjacks, biscuits and fruit and nuts, plus squash and flat cola; staff will refill flasks and reusable cups. The event operates a cupless policy and reusable cups are available to purchase. Entry fees start at GBP 22 for the half marathon and GBP 29 for the marathon. Finishers can select a bespoke medal, and receive a finisher T-shirt and a goody bag. The event is UKA affiliated, holds a TRA race permit and is a 100 Club qualifying event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.