Get set, go! Entries open for Eden Marathon and Half-Marathon 2026

Runners of all abilities are being invited to take on one of the UK’s most scenic and challenging races, as entries open for the Eden Marathon and Half-Marathon. The races, organised in partnership with St Austell Running Club, return to the Eden Project on Sunday, 18 October 2026, as the educational charity celebrates its 25th anniversary.

The Eden Marathon and Half-Marathon have built a reputation as one of the most distinctive races in the UK running calendar, attracting both seasoned athletes and first-time runners looking for an unforgettable challenge at Cornwall’s biggest running event.

Set against the dramatic backdrop of Cornwall’s clay country, over 1,500 participants will get a unique opportunity to run on a multi-terrain route through a working China clay landscape that winds through reclaimed land, woodland trails and open countryside.

The marathon route is known for its tough climbs and rewarding descents, while the half-marathon provides a slightly shorter but equally scenic experience. Both routes start and finish at the Eden Project, with runners cheered on by supporters, who get free entry on the day, in the iconic setting. Each entry contributes £5 towards bulb planting and wildflower seeding, supporting Eden’s environmental mission.

Eden’s Commercial Manager, Tracey Smith, has organised the event with St Austell Running Club since its inception; she said: “It’s amazing to think we’re now in our 16^th 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.”

Each year’s event enables Eden to invest approximately £7,500 per year into horticultural improvements across its estate, including new tree planting at the North Gate entrance to enhance visitor arrival experience while supporting climate resilience and biodiversity. The team also began introducing naturalistic bulb planting along verges, using species such as daffodils, tulips and fritillaries to create spring displays and provide vital food sources for pollinators. This work will continue in 2026, funded in part by the marathon.

Tracey continued, “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.”

Participants who commit to fundraising £250 for the Eden Project 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, with a Cornish pasty and beer waiting at the finish line. Cash prizes are awarded to race winners alongside category prizes, and runners benefit from water stations every three miles, isotonic drinks every seven, chip timing and free post-race analysis via RunPix. Spectators can enjoy the atmosphere with access to Eden’s gardens and Biomes included on the day. Limited race t-shirts will be available for purchase.

Eden is also host to regular nature-based wellbeing activities, including parkrun, a free weekly 5k community event, where participants enjoy free access to the rest of the site for the day and yoga in the Biomes at various points across the year.

Entries are now open for both the Eden Marathon and Half-Marathon, with early booking recommended due to high demand. Early bird entries open from April 7, with marathon entry starting from £43 and half-marathon entry from £37. Full price entries will be open until 30 September, subject to availability. Find out more at www.edenproject.com.