Atlantic Coast Challenge Padstow, United Kingdom
Race facts
- Distances
- 42.2 km, 44.3 km
- Entry fee
- from £75
- Terrain
- Wild and rugged. Steep climbs and descents.
- Organizer
- Epic Endurance Events
- Registration
- Open
From the official race website, checked 2026-09-28. Official page
External Event
Distance
26.2 mi
Pace
All paces (with start group separation)
Terrain
Wild and rugged. Steep climbs and descents.
Difficulty
Challenging
About this run
The Atlantic Coast Challenge returns to Cornwall for its 2026 edition, offering a demanding test of endurance along the stunning Cornish coastline. Now in its 21st year, this event is the more rugged sibling of the Jurassic Coast Challenge. Participants can choose to complete up to 78.6 miles over three days, or opt for single-day entries. The route follows the South West Coast Path, emphasizing self-navigation with the sea generally to your right and land to your left. Every participant receives an event t-shirt, and finishers are awarded a classic challenge medal and a Cornish Pasty on the final day. The event HQ is located at St Ives Bay Holiday Park, providing a central point for registration, support, and transport. The organizers handle logistics, including transport to and from daily start points, ensuring participants can focus on the challenge. Checkpoints are strategically placed approximately every 10KM, offering hydration, nutrition, and a point for staff to log participant progress. Medical support is available throughout the event, with medics on hand each morning for any pre-race needs.
Who it's for
This event is suitable for experienced runners and hikers looking for a significant multi-day challenge or a tough single-day marathon. The wild and rugged terrain with steep climbs and descents requires good physical and mental strength.
What to expect
- Arrive at the Event HQ at St Ives Bay Holiday Park for daily transport to the start line.
- The course follows the South West Coast Path, which is a well-worn and marked route. Self-navigation is key, with the general instruction to keep the sea on your right.
- Be prepared for steep climbs and descents; the terrain is wild and rugged, testing both concentration and strength.
- Carry all compulsory kit, including a means of navigation, waterproofs, warm clothing, a whistle, a torch, and a fully charged mobile phone. 'No kit, no run' policy will be enforced.
- Food and drink will be available at checkpoints and the finish line each day, including hot soup and a Cornish pasty on the final day.
Good to know
- Accommodation can be booked directly with St Ives Bay Holiday Park using discount code EPIC26 for up to 10% off.
- GPS trackers are supplied by Geo Tracks for all participants.
- There are two start groups for Day 1: Group 1 for walkers and joggers, and Group 2 for runners and faster runners.
Typical conditions
For events around October 2026 in Cornwall, United Kingdom: Typical autumn conditions in this region — conditions can change quickly; confirm race-day guidance on the official page.
How to prepare
Marathon training typically spans 12–16 weeks with a progressive long run and recovery weeks. Do not invent a course strategy here — check the official site for start waves, cutoffs, and gear rules.
Best marathons to run in 2026Getting there
This event is listed in Cornwall, United Kingdom. Confirm the exact start venue, parking, and transit options on the official registration page.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Atlantic Coast Challenge?+
The Atlantic Coast Challenge is a multi-day running event along the Cornish coastline, offering participants the chance to complete up to 78.6 miles over three days, or opt for single-day entries.
When is the Atlantic Coast Challenge 2026?+
The event takes place from Friday 2nd to Sunday 4th October 2026.
Where does the Atlantic Coast Challenge take place?+
The event starts near Padstow and finishes at Land's End, following the South West Coast Path. The Event HQ is at St Ives Bay Holiday Park.
What distances are offered?+
Participants can choose to complete 1, 2, or 3 days. Day One is 42.2 KM, Day Two is 42.2 KM, and Day Three is 44.3 KM.
How do I register for the event?+
Registration can be completed via the official website: https://www.epicenduranceevents.co.uk/acc
What is included in the entry fee?+
Entry includes a GPS tracker, event t-shirt, food and drink on the course, transport to/from the HQ to the start/finish, a bespoke finishers medal, free parking at HQ, medical cover, on-course support, and a Cornish pasty on the final day.
What is the terrain like?+
The terrain is wild and rugged, featuring steep climbs and descents along the South West Coast Path.
How can I register?+
Runners can register through the official event page: https://www.epicenduranceevents.co.uk/acc
Registration is handled by the official event organizer
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