Entries Open for Eden Marathon and Half-Marathon 2026

Eden Marathon 2026 Opens Early And It’s Already Turning Heads

Runners across Cornwall and beyond are being invited to take on one of the UK’s most scenic and demanding races, as entries open for the Eden Marathon and Half-Marathon 2026.

The event will return to the Eden Project on Sunday 18th October 2026, marking a special year as the educational charity celebrates its 25th anniversary.

A standout race in Cornwall’s calendar

Organised in partnership with St Austell Running Club, the Eden Marathon and Half-Marathon have built a reputation as one of the most distinctive events in the UK running calendar.

Set within Cornwall’s clay country, the race offers a multi-terrain route through a working china clay landscape. Participants will run across reclaimed land, woodland trails and open countryside, with more than 1,500 runners expected to take part.

The marathon is known for its tough climbs and rewarding descents, while the half-marathon provides a shorter but still scenic challenge. Both routes start and finish at the Eden Project, where supporters can attend for free and cheer runners on.

Supporting nature with every step

Each entry contributes £5 towards bulb planting and wildflower seeding, supporting Eden’s wider environmental work.

Tracey Smith, Commercial Manager at the Eden Project, said:
“It’s amazing to think we’re now in our 16th year of running this event, and celebrating 25 years of the Eden Project. It wouldn’t be possible without the support of St Austell Running Club. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or taking on your first long-distance run, every step contributes to a lasting, positive impact on nature. We pledge £5 from each entry towards bulb planting and wildflower seeding, helping to create new habitats and enhance the landscape for wildlife and people alike.”

The event helps Eden invest around £7,500 each year into improvements across its site. This includes tree planting at the North Gate entrance and naturalistic bulb planting using species such as daffodils, tulips and fritillaries to support pollinators.

Fundraising and runner rewards

As part of the 25th anniversary celebrations, participants are being encouraged to raise £250, representing £10 for each year of Eden’s work.

Tracey added:
“As a charity, it’s especially meaningful that participants can raise funds to support Eden’s environmental and community work. In our 25th anniversary year, we’re encouraging runners to fundraise £250, symbolising £10 for each year of Eden’s impact.”

Those who commit to fundraising £250 will receive complimentary entry, a technical t-shirt made from 100 per cent recycled polyester, and dedicated fundraising support.

All finishers will receive a themed medal, along with a Cornish pasty and beer at the finish line. There are also cash prizes for winners and category prizes, with water stations every three miles, isotonic drinks every seven, chip timing and post-race analysis provided via RunPix.

Entries now open

Early bird entries opened on 7th April, with marathon places starting from £43 and half-marathon places from £37. Full price entries will remain available until 30th September, subject to availability.

Further details and entry information can be found on the
<a href=”https://www.edenproject.com/visit/whats-on/eden-marathon-and-half-marathon”>Eden Project website</a>.

With high demand expected, early booking is recommended.