Halstead & Essex Marathon

Halstead & Essex Marathon : 10 May 2026

Halstead & Essex Marathon returns in May 2026 for its 30th running. The event is organised by Halstead Road Runners, a local club of about 140 members, and is held at Halstead Leisure Centre, Colne Road, Halstead, Essex CO9 2HR.

The marathon runs on scenic, low-traffic roads in North Essex, using rural lanes through rolling hills, woods and farmland. It is part of the Essex Road Running Championships; eligibility for the championships is limited to runners born in Essex or resident in Essex for nine months or longer. Current course records are 2:28:08 for men and 2:53:22 for women, with a £200 prize available for anyone who breaks a record.

Entry is limited to 500 runners. Standard fees listed are UK Athletics affiliated £53 and non-affiliated £55; an early bird tier is listed at lower rates. Entries close on 3 May. No refunds or deferrals are allowed; race refund insurance is available as an optional purchase and transfers are permitted until one week before the event. Walkers who would take longer than seven hours are not accepted.

The event holds an event licence and a course measurement certificate. Organisers note there is no parking at Race HQ; a dedicated parking area is provided via Upper Fen Road, a short walk from Race HQ. The event highlights volunteer involvement and reports charitable fundraising; it won the 2025 England Athletics East Region Community volunteer project of the year award. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.