Beacon Beast Marathon
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Beacon Beast Marathon and The Beastly Half
The Beacon Beast event on 19 April 2026 offers two multi terrain distances that follow the Bodmin Way and local public footpaths around Bodmin. The entry ages are 18 or older. The event uses a unique figure of eight route that incorporates five churches which host aid stations and support along the way.
Distances and elevation
- 27 miles 3000 ft elevation
- 14 miles 2800 ft elevation
The route passes Lanhydrock National Trust Estate, Redmoor Nature Reserve, parts of The Saint's Way, Helman Tor, The Beacon Nature Reserve, Cardinham Woods, Lanivet, Nanstallon, Cardinham Village and Bodmin. Participants will cross A30 bridges and underpasses, encounter streams, stiles, possible bog, stepping stones and boardwalk alternatives, and a section of extra elevation on reentry to Cardinham Woods. The final mile of both distances is downhill before a climb up steps to St Petroc's church.
Aid stations are based at the local churches except Lanhydrock where the station is in the main car park. Volunteers from local community groups staff the stations. Organisers provide route signage using biodegradable tape, arrows and marshals, and supply a written route description plus a GPX file. Finishers receive a bespoke medal, a T shirt and a complimentary drink served at the church. The half marathon is part of the local Multi Terrain Running Series for 2026. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
