Leigh-on-Sea Running Festival 2026: Scenic Coastal 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon

Prepare your trainers for an invigorating autumn challenge along the Essex coastline at the Leigh-on-Sea Running Festival 2026. Taking place on Sunday, 25 October 2026, this community-focused celebration of running welcomes participants of all abilities to take in stunning sea views, crisp coastal air, and an electric sporting atmosphere.

Choose Your Distance: 5K, 10K, or Half Marathon

Whether you are seeking your very first race-day finish or aiming to shave minutes off your personal best, the festival provides three distinct route options designed to suit every level of fitness:

• The 5K Fun Run: An accessible, flat, and supportive distance perfect for beginners, brisk joggers, and younger runners aiming for a brisk coastal sprint.
• The 10K Challenge: A classic distance that rewards steady pacing, taking competitors along panoramic shoreline stretches with plenty of crowd encouragement.
• The Half Marathon: A rewarding 13.1-mile endurance journey designed for intermediate and seasoned runners looking to conquer a coastal distance before the winter training season begins.

The Route: Coastal Running at Its Best

Operating from Leigh Marina along High Street in Old Leigh, the race routes capitalise on the picturesque estuary views that define this corner of Southend-on-Sea. Runners will enjoy largely flat, paved courses hugging the waterline, offering expansive vistas across the Thames Estuary and the historic cockle sheds of Old Leigh. The flat profile makes it an exceptional choice for runners targeting personal records, while the brisk sea breeze keeps spirits high across every kilometre.

Event Timings and Race Day Essentials

The action kicks off bright and early at Leigh Marina, with waves beginning from 08:00. To ensure a smooth experience, runners should plan their morning carefully:

• Start Time: Waves commence promptly from 08:00 on Sunday, 25 October 2026.
• Location: Leigh Marina, High Street, Leigh-on-Sea, SS9 2ER.
• Facilities: Bag drop, hydration stations along the course, and on-site medical support are provided.
• Finisher Rewards: Every runner crossing the finish line receives a bespoke commemorative medal to mark their achievement.

After crossing the line, participants and spectators alike can unwind among the historic charm of Leigh-on-Sea, sampling fresh local seafood or enjoying a warm beverage in one of the traditional waterside cafés and pubs situated moments from the event village.