St Peters Way Ultra

The St Peter’s Way, an ancient pilgrimage route dating back over 1300 years, offers runners a unique blend of historical significance and challenging terrain. Spanning approximately 42 miles from Chipping Ongar to the coastal chapel at Bradwell on Sea, this trail winds through Essex's historic countryside, passing by numerous churches listed in the Doomsday Book.
Scheduled for February 22nd, 2026, with registration opening at 7:00 AM and a start time of 8:30 AM, participants will embark on an adventure that combines scenic beauty with navigational challenges. The route is marked but requires careful attention to wayfinding aids like the .gpx file provided for download before race day.
The course itself offers a mix of muddy trails, fields, rural tracks, and roads, culminating in raised sea walls near the finish line. Runners will encounter rolling hills throughout most sections but can expect very runnable stretches amid the varied landscapes. The final miles towards St Peter-on-the-Wall Chapel are known for their cold winds and potential wet conditions.
Four checkpoints along the route provide essential supplies such as water, energy foods (including vegan options), and beverages like Coke and squash. These CPs serve not only to replenish but also offer critical cut-off times that range from 11:00 AM at CP1 through to a final finish time of 9:00 PM.
Participants should be prepared for varying underfoot conditions, especially if the weather turns wet or muddy. Parking is limited near both start and finish locations; however, minibus transportation back to the start location will be available after specified times (3:30pm, 6pm, & 8:30pm) at a cost of £20.
Registration takes place in Budworth Hall opposite the Pleasance public car park on High Street Ongar. Finishers will reach St Peter-on-the-Wall Chapel via East End Road Bradwell On Sea—a destination steeped in history and devoid of modern conveniences like indoor plumbing!
This event is not just a physical challenge but an immersive journey through Essex’s rich historical tapestry, making it ideal for both experienced trail runners looking to push their limits as well as those interested in the cultural significance of this ancient path.