Summer Series " The Halloween Special"

Welcome to the Langdon Discovery Nature Park - Phoenix Summer Series 'Halloween Special,' an enchanting evening race set for October 27, 2026. This spooky-themed run offers participants of all ages the chance to explore the winding trails and paths that meander through the heart of Langdon Hills in Essex Wildlife Trust’s Langdon Discovery Nature Park.
The event kicks off with a family-friendly 'Little Monsters' Trail at 6:45 PM, where children under 12 can enjoy a short loop trail filled with Halloween surprises and treats. This free-entry event requires registration on-site for both the young participants and their accompanying adults. Participants will receive glow sticks to enhance visibility during this night-time adventure.
At 7:30 PM, adult runners aged 12 years or older are invited to tackle a thrilling 5k trail run around Langdon Hills. The course winds through varied terrain that includes overhanging branches, tree roots, and slippery mud paths typical of an evening nature park run. Participants must carry their own light source for safety; glow sticks will be provided at registration.
The race route comprises two laps of a scenic 2.5k circuit, starting and finishing back at the Discovery Centre. Marshals are stationed along the way to guide runners with torches while also providing assistance as needed. Safety is paramount: all participants must wear or carry light sources for visibility, and glow sticks will be distributed upon arrival to help ensure clear sightlines throughout the run.
For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, walking through this eerie evening landscape can still offer an enjoyable experience. The event caters not only to competitive runners but also to families looking for a unique Halloween outing that supports local wildlife conservation and special needs charities.
Registration on race day is available for all participants aged 18 or older, with U18 entrants needing adult supervision confirmed at the time of entry due to safety regulations. Entry fees are £2 (affiliated/club affiliated) and £4 (unaffiliated) for adults; children's entries remain free but require an accompanying registered adult.
The race will be conducted under Trail Runners Association Permit guidelines, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all participants. No dogs or pushchairs are allowed on the course to maintain safety standards, though pets may wait at designated areas near the start/finish line with their owners.
Post-race festivities include refreshments from hot drinks to snacks available in the Discovery Centre itself, which also offers Essex Wildlife Trust merchandise as a perfect memento of your spooky evening run. Remember to arrive early for registration and familiarization before heading out into the dark trails!
Join us at Langdon Discovery Nature Park this Halloween night for an unforgettable adventure that supports vital causes while providing fun-filled memories for all involved.
Participants are encouraged to wear costumes or halloween-themed attire, adding a festive touch to their run. The event aims to raise funds and awareness for Essex Wildlife Trust (EWT) as well as the Better Opportunities for Special People charity, both of which contribute positively to local communities.