Blackwater Marathon

OCT
25
2025
Join the 25th Blackwater Marathon on 25 October 2025 in Heybridge, Essex, with scenic coastal marsh and seawall trails offering 26.5 mile and 18 mile circular routes. Part of the Essex and Herts Triple Challenge, expect muddy, windswept fun and friendly checkpoints.
Sat 25 Oct 2025
27 miles 18 miles

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Event details

The Blackwater Marathon 2025 takes place on Saturday 25 October 2025 at Drapers Farm Sports Club, Drapers Chase, Heybridge, Essex CM9 4QT. The event is organised by LDWA - Essex and Herts Group and is the 25th running of the Blackwater Marathon. It forms part of the Essex & Herts Triple Challenge.

Entries open 1 July 2025 and close 19 October 2025, or earlier if the entry limit of 175 is reached. There were 159 participants entered at the time shown. Entry fees are £16 for LDWA members and £24 for non-members. Entries are not transferable. Cancellations before 10 October incur a £5 administration fee; no refunds are made for cancellations after 10 October unless the event is cancelled.

Course and logistics

The event offers two circular routes on the north side of the River Blackwater estuary, using cross country footpaths and sections of seawall. Route files and descriptions (.gpx) will be available on the Essex & Herts LDWA website prior to the event; no printed route descriptions will be provided at the event.

Distances:

  • 26.5 Miles - 3 checkpoints
  • 18 Miles - 2 checkpoints

Car parking is at Maldon Rugby Club carpark, Scraley Road, Heybridge CM9 8JA. Entry includes refreshments at the start, snacks at checkpoints, a light meal at the finish, and a finisher certificate. Entrants should bring the route description, a mug for drinks at checkpoints, a compass and a torch, and suitable clothing for muddy and windy marsh conditions. No dogs are allowed on the route or at checkpoints, except assistance dogs. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

27 mi
26.5 Miles
18 mi
18 Miles