St Peters Way Ultra

The St Peter’s Way, an ancient pilgrimage route dating back over 13 centuries, offers runners a unique blend of history and natural beauty as it winds through Essex's countryside from Chipping Ongar to the coastal chapel at Bradwell-on-Sea. Spanning approximately 42 miles, this challenging trail is steeped in historical significance, with sections documented in the Doomsday Book.
Scheduled for February 22nd, 2026, registration opens promptly at 7:00 AM and concludes two weeks prior to the race date. The event starts from the Pleasance public car park on High Street, Ongar (CM5 9AB), with a briefing just before 8:10 AM. Participants must adhere strictly to checkpoint cut-off times ranging from an initial 2 hours and 30 minutes at CP1 through to a final deadline of 12.5 hours for the finish line.
The route is predominantly off-road, traversing muddy trails, fields, rural tracks, and roads, culminating in raised sea walls near the coast. It features rolling terrain with occasional hills but remains mostly runnable despite its challenging underfoot conditions. The weather can be unpredictable; expect exposure to wind, rain, and cold temperatures towards the end of the race.
Four checkpoints are strategically placed along the route, each equipped with essential supplies such as water, food, and beverages including vegan options. Runners must manage their own dietary requirements by informing organizers upon entry or beforehand via message.
Transport back from the finish line at St Peter-on-the-Wall Chapel is provided on a first-come-first-served basis through race-organized minibuses leaving at 3:30 PM, 6:00 PM, and 8:30 PM. Additional transport will be arranged for runners finishing after these times.
Parking options are limited near the start and finish points; participants may leave their cars in a public car park adjacent to the starting location for a fee of £6-£10 on race day or pre-book online through an app. No indoor facilities exist along the route, save for temporary arrangements at checkpoints where local pubs might offer basic amenities.
A downloadable GPX file is provided ahead of time to aid navigation and planning. This digital map ensures participants can prepare thoroughly before setting out, helping them navigate effectively even in adverse conditions like heavy rain or darkness. Each runner receives a tracker device from Open Tracking for real-time location updates shared with family and friends via the live tracking page.
The St Peter’s Way is more than just a race; it's an immersive journey through Essex's rich historical tapestry and varied landscapes, perfect for those seeking both physical challenge and cultural immersion.