LDWA South Downs Marathon
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LDWA South Downs Marathon 2026
The event offers two marked routes across the South Downs National Park, starting and finishing at East Dean Village Hall in Eastbourne (BN20 0DR). The routes cross notable landscapes including the Seven Sisters, Cuckmere Haven, Firle Beacon, and the downland villages of Littlington, Firle and Alfriston.
Distances
- 28 miles with 4000+ ft of ascent
- 18 miles with 2800+ ft of ascent
Entrants have an 11 hour time limit to complete their chosen route and must pass through all checkpoints in the correct order to qualify for an emailed certificate. Route descriptions, map sections and GPX files will be available for download from 13th April 2026 in .pdf and .doc formats. Checkpoints provide food and refreshments with vegetarian options; the number of checkpoints varies by route.
Practical arrangements include car parking in the field next to the hall and luggage storage inside the hall. Public transport access includes the Eastbourne - Brighton bus routes 12, 12A and 12X. Results will be published on the LDWA website shortly after the event.
Entry details: entries open and close on published dates, fees differ for LDWA members and non-members, under 18s may enter free under specified conditions, and there is no entry on the day. A waiting list will operate if the event is oversubscribed.
Rules require carrying a route description and suitable maps, a drinking vessel, and adherence to checkpoint opening and closing times. Dogs are not permitted except assistance dogs. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
