St Peters Way Ultra

The St Peter’s Way, an ancient pilgrimage trail stretching 42 miles through Essex's historic countryside, offers runners a unique blend of historical intrigue and scenic beauty. Starting from Chipping Ongar and ending at the quaint chapel of St Peter-on-the-Wall in Bradwell on Sea, this route follows paths that have been trodden since the 7th century, adorned with ancient churches and picturesque landscapes.
Scheduled for February 22nd, 2026, the race begins promptly at 8:30 AM from The Pleasance public car park near Ongar. Participants must arrive early to register between 7 AM and 8:10 AM when a briefing is held.
The route itself is a challenging mix of muddy trails, fields, rural tracks, and roads, culminating in an elevated sea wall path at the coast. It's essential for runners to be prepared for variable weather conditions; parts can become extremely muddy if it rains, with some exposed sections that might get chilly or windy towards the finish.
Four checkpoints are strategically placed along the route to provide sustenance and support:
- CP1 (7.9 miles) by 11:00 AM
- CP2 (15.8 miles) by 13:15 PM
- CP3 (25.4 miles) by 4:00 PM
- CP4 (34 miles) by 7:00 PM
Each checkpoint offers a variety of food, drinks like water and coke, as well as snacks suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Runners with specific dietary needs should inform the organizers beforehand.
The race concludes at St Peter-on-the-Wall Chapel around 9 PM, but runners who finish after this time will be transported back to the start by race staff. Buses are available at set times: 3:30 PM, 6:00 PM and 8:30 PM for a fee of £20.
Parking is limited in both locations; participants can leave their cars in the public car park near Ongar but should be prepared to pay parking fees. No indoor facilities are available along the route except at checkpoints where toilets may or may not be accessible depending on local pub policies and availability.
A downloadable .gpx file will help runners navigate this largely unmarked course, which can present challenges in terms of wayfinding—especially during night-time conditions when visibility is reduced. It's recommended that participants familiarize themselves with the route beforehand to ensure they are prepared for any unexpected diversions or obstacles.
The St Peter’s Way offers an immersive experience through Essex’s rich history and stunning natural beauty, making it a must-do event for trail runners looking for something truly unique.