Norfolk Coastal Trail Marathon

Event Overview

The Norfolk Coastal Trail Marathon and Half Marathon is organized by Runners-next-the-Sea. A donation of £5 from every entry goes to support The East Anglian Air Ambulance. The event is licensed by the Trail Runners Association and held under UK Athletics rules.

Distances and Route

The event offers two distances:

• A full marathon of approximately 26.2 miles
• A half marathon of approximately 13.1 miles

Both courses follow the marked Norfolk Coast Path, which is signposted with acorn symbols and is mainly off-road. The distances are approximate as the route is not officially measured. The full marathon starts at Holme-next-the-Sea, and the half marathon starts at Burnham Overy Staithe. Both races finish at Morston Quay.

Race Information

There are entry limits: 200 for the full marathon and 300 for the half marathon. The minimum age on race day is 18. All finishers receive a bespoke medal, with prizes for the top three in Female and Male/Open categories. Electronic gun timing is used, with timing mats at certain points. The course is not suitable for wheelchairs or dogs to accompany runners.

Logistics and Facilities

Coach transport is available from the finish to the start before the event for £12, which must be booked during entry. Car parking at the start and finish is pay-and-display. There are cut-off points at Burnham Overy (1:00 PM) for marathon runners and Stiffkey (3:45 PM) for both distances. Marshals are present at main road crossings, but they do not stop traffic.

Checkpoints provide squash, water, sweets, and crisps. Specific checkpoint locations are listed for each distance. The event is cup-less, so participants must bring their own reusable bottles. First aiders are present at the start, finish, and along the course. Race numbers can be posted for an extra £2 or collected on the day. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.