Halstead & Essex Marathon
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Event overview
The Halstead & Essex Marathon is a road marathon held in Halstead, Essex, with the next edition scheduled for 10 May 2026. The event is organised by a local running club of about 140 members and will mark its 30th running. The race is held on scenic, low-traffic roads in North Essex, passing rolling hills, woods and farmland. It is part of the Essex Road Running Championships series; eligibility for the championships requires being born in Essex or having been resident in Essex for at least nine months. Current course records are 2:28:08 (men) and 2:53:22 (women); a £200 prize is offered for breaking a record.
Entries, fees and logistics
The event limits entries to 500 runners. Standard entry fees are listed as £53 (UK Athletics affiliated) and £55 (non-affiliated). An early-bird price is shown at £43 (affiliated) and £45 (non-affiliated). The organiser states no refunds or deferrals will be allowed; race-refund insurance is offered as an optional extra. Transfers are permitted until one week before the event. Entries close on 3 May. The event holds an official licence and a course measurement certificate.
Parking and local notes
Parking is not available at Race HQ (Halstead Leisure Centre). A dedicated runner parking area is provided, accessible from Upper Fen Road and a short walk from Race HQ. Organisers note they cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to vehicles and encourage car sharing. The event reports community fundraising activity and a regional volunteer award. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.