Beacon Beast Marathon
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Event overview
The Beacon Beast event on Sunday 19 April 2026 comprises a multi-terrain marathon and a half-marathon held in and around Bodmin, Cornwall. Distances offered:
- Marathon: 27 miles with about 3000 ft of elevation
- Beastie McBeastRace (Half): 14 miles with about 2800 ft of elevation
The event starts and finishes at Shire House, Priory Park, Bodmin (PL31 2DQ). Entry is open through the event entry system; minimum age for both races is 18. Entry fees are listed for affiliated and unaffiliated participants.
Route and support
The course follows the Bodmin Way in a figure-of-eight layout and passes Lanhydrock National Trust Estate, Redmoor Nature Reserve, Helman Tor, the Beacon Nature Reserve, Cardinham Woods, Lanivet, Nanstallon, Cardinham Village and Bodmin. The route uses public footpaths and local roads and includes bridges and underpasses on the A30, streams, stiles, possible boggy sections and some stepping stones instead of boardwalk.
Aid stations are located at the local churches, with Lanhydrock aid at the main car park. The organisers provide a written route description and a GPX file, and signposting using biodegradable tape, arrows and marshals. The final mile of both distances is downhill then up steps to St Petroc's church, where participants receive a bespoke medal, a t-shirt and a complimentary drink. Community groups help at aid stations and funds from the event are shared with local groups. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
