Exe to Axe Race - 22 Miles

Trail Running Along the South West Coast Path

The Exe to Axe is a trail running event celebrating its 22nd year in 2026. The course follows the South West Coast Path in Devon, featuring significant elevation changes with approximately 4,000 feet of ascent. Participants navigate a scenic route that connects several coastal towns, finishing on the beach in Seaton.

The event offers three distinct participation options:

• 22 miles: The full distance from Exmouth to Seaton.
• 22 miles Relay: A team category for 2, 3, or 4 runners with handover points at designated checkpoints.
• Sid to Axe: A shorter course covering the second half of the route from Sidmouth to Seaton.

The full race begins in Exmouth near Queen's Drive Space, while the shorter course starts from the Esplanade in Sidmouth. The finish line for all participants is located in Seaton, opposite the Mariner’s Hotel. Registration takes place at Sideshore in Exmouth, where indoor facilities are available.

Checkpoints providing water and snacks are positioned near Budleigh Salterton, Sidmouth, and Branscombe. To assist with logistics, participants can book optional pre-race bus transport from Seaton to the start locations in Exmouth or Sidmouth. Baggage transfer from the start to the finish is also provided.

The event is chip-timed and subject to specific time limits: 7 hours for the full distance and 6 hours for the Sidmouth start. Cut-off times are enforced at various checkpoints along the route to ensure participant safety.

The minimum age for the full individual race is 18 years. For the relay, runners aged 15 and older may participate, though specific distance restrictions apply to younger athletes. Dogs are not permitted on the course. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.