***Congratulations to all of our 2025 finishers! We are delight to be able to offer a special VIP early bird offer for the 2026 marathon for a limited time only (17 May 2025)***

Please click here for your 2025 race day photos

Halstead & Essex Marathon returns in May 2026 for the 30th year!

Established in 1995 by Colin Richer and club members, Halstead & Essex Marathon has grown into a well-supported annual event, attracting participants from across the UK and beyond. 

The race takes place on scenic, low-traffic roads in a beautiful region of North Essex - an area of extreme beauty with an abundance of hidden back roads amongst rolling hills, woods and farmlands.

This popular event is hosted by Halstead Road Runners, a small club with about 140 members, and is well known and loved by runners for welcoming atmosphere and commitment to local charities. This year is especially significant as Halstead Road Runners celebrates its 40th anniversary.

The marathon is also part of the Essex Road Running Championships series, open to runners born in Essex or who have been a resident in Essex for 9 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.

Entry 

Please note that no refunds or deferrals will be allowed under any circumstances in the case of withdrawal from the race or non-appearance on race day. Your entry fee will be added to the monies that Halstead Road Runners donates to charity. Race refund insurance is available as an option with your ticket purchase. Transfers will be allowed until a week before the event.

Please note we are unable to accept entries for those wishing to walk the whole event who will take over 7 hours 

UK Athletics Affiliated Race Entry Registration Fee £53.00 
Non-Affiliated Race Entry Registration Fee £55.00 

Maximum Number of Race Entries: 500
Event Licence No. to be confirmed
Course measurement certificate No. 25/009, 2026 to be confirmed
If the event has not sold out then we will offer a limited number of card payment entries on the day.
Entries close on 3th May

Race Day Officials 

Race Director: Hannah Whale
Ajudicator: TBC
Referee: TBC
Essex Champs Official: TBC
Course Manager: Bob Langely
Chief Marshal: Charlotte May