Grand Canal Canter

Grand Canal Canter

The Grand Canal Canter is held twice each year, with autumn and spring editions on 25 October 2026 and 14 March 2027. All routes run entirely on the Grand Western Canal Path and start at Tiverton Canal Basin. The surface is hard packed gravel along the canal towpath and the organiser describes the courses as flat with modest total ascent.

Distances offered:

• Marathon
• 20 Miler (March only)
• Half Marathon
• 10k

Route details vary by date. For March 2027 the 10k turns at Tiverton Bridge Car Park, the half marathon turns at Sampford Peverel, and the 20 miler and marathon turn near Burlescombe; each course returns to Tiverton, and the marathon combines a 20 mile out-and-back with a 6.2 mile out-and-back to reach full marathon distance. For October 2026 the 10k turns at Tiverton Bridge Car Park, the half marathon and marathon turn at Sampford Peverel, and the marathon completes a second out-and-back section.

Approximate ascent figures are given as 90 ft for the half marathon, 150 ft for the 20 miler, and 180 ft for the marathon. All finishers receive a bespoke Grand Canal Canter medal. From March 2027 an optional event T-shirt is available for purchase at checkout for £15. The event is cupless: runners must carry a bottle, cup, or backpack; water containers to refill are placed at about three mile intervals. Age limits apply: over 18 for most distances, over 16 for the 10k. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.