Halstead & Essex Marathon

Halstead & Essex Marathon - May 2026

Halstead & Essex Marathon returns in May 2026 for its 30th year. The event is organised by Halstead Road Runners, a small club of about 140 members, and is noted for a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on local charities. The race was established in 1995 and has become a regular annual event attracting runners from across the UK and beyond. It won the 2025 England Athletics East Region Community volunteer project of the year award and raised over £500 for charities in the previous year.

The marathon is run on scenic, low-traffic roads in North Essex through rolling hills, woods and farmland. It is part of the Essex Road Running Championships and is open 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 for record breakers. Event capacity is 500 entries and entries close on 3th May. Event licence No. 30235 and course measurement certificate No. 25/009 are in place.

Entry terms state that no refunds or deferrals are allowed; race refund insurance is offered as an option and transfers are permitted until one week before the event. The organisers note they cannot accept entries from people who will take over seven hours to complete the course. Race HQ is at Halstead Leisure Centre, Colne Road, Halstead, Essex CO9 2HR. A dedicated parking area is provided nearby with a short walk from Race HQ; organisers do not accept responsibility for loss or damage to vehicles. The event has an aggregate rating of 4.7 from 48 reviews. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.