Essex 20
Sun 15 Mar 2026 Saffron Walden, Essex, UK

Essex 20

The Essex 20 is held annually and is an ideal 20-mile race for the build-up to Marathon season, set over a 5-lap, flat, fast, tarmac course. Also hosting the Essex County Road Running Championships.

2 races

  • Sun 15 Mar 2026
  • #1 of 2
Carver Barracks, Saffron Walden

Essex 20

09:30

Age 18 & over

£32-£34

  • 20 miles road running
  • Sun 15 Mar 2026
  • #2 of 2
Carver Barracks, Saffron Walden

Essex 20 | Essex County Road Running Championships

09:30

Age 18 & over

£22

  • 20 miles road running

Event overview

Held every March, the Essex 20 is the perfect race to prepare for marathon season.

Experience the excitement of running on historic Debden Airfield – a disused airfield offering a unique, fast and flat 5-lap tarmac course. With no sharp corners and good shelter from the wind, it’s ideal for chasing a personal best or enjoying a smooth run with friends.

You’ll also be part of a major championship event, attracting some of the best runners in the region.

Highlights

  • 20-mile race ideal for marathon training
  • Fast, flat 5-lap tarmac course on Debden Airfield
  • Historic venue with minimal wind exposure
  • Perfect for PB chasers and social runners alike
  • Hosts the Inter-Counties 20 Mile Championships
  • Includes the Essex County Road Running Championships

Event details

  • Average fitness
  • Beginner-friendly
  • Event village

  • Paid parking

Event HQ

Carver Barracks
Elder Street
Saffron Walden
Essex
CB10 2YB
UK

Paid parking

Ample parking is available at the venue for a £3 parking fee.

A really great event. I used it as prep for an upcoming marathon and it was perfect for this, but also a great race in its own right. Having 5 laps made it great for pacing and it’s nearly completely flat so a fast course. Water (in paper cups) and gels every lap. Really well Marshalled. There were some fast guys and girls due to it being inter county championships, but it’s such a friendly event and suitable for all. Nick C

Great music around the course. Sandra W

First time I've run this course, thought I'd find the laps a bit boring but really enjoyed the mental challenge of running the loops. Really well organised, lots of goodies at the end, great medal, loads of parking and easy to get to and get away from. Would definately recommend as a pre-marathon training race. Was amazing to see the elite runners breezing past as they were competing for the top spots, over all a great Sunday morning run and well worth the entry fee. Well done organisers and thank you to all the volunteers who helped make it happen. Hayley R

A really great event. I used it as prep for an upcoming marathon and it was perfect for this, but also a great race in its own right. Having 5 laps made it great for pacing and it’s nearly completely flat so a fast course. Water (in paper cups) and gels every lap. Really well Marshalled. There were some fasts guys and girls due to it being inter county championships, but it’s such a friendly event and suitable for all. Nick C

What you expected was what you got. Easy to park and register. Flat course, 5 laps, decent surface (few lumps and bumps); good atmosphere, well-marshalled, actually enjoyed running alongside the 5km and 10km race because there was plenty of room for everyone. Inter-Counties competition added to the interest of the overall event. Definitely one we would recommend. Neil O

Reviews thanks to RaceCheck

  • Bring your own cup
  • Recycling
  • Sustainability policy

Here are the ways this event cares for the environment:

Summary

  • Recycling bins
  • Recycling gets separated from general waste
  • Finish line water bottles made from recycled material
  • Refill taps are provided so participants can bring their own bottle and fill up during the event
  • The choice of paper cups at water stations
  • Signage including course marking attached with reusable garden wire instead of plastic cable ties
  • 'Dynamic bib assignment’ removes the need for envelopes, sticker labels and excess waste
  • Bike racking is provided to promote cycling to the events

Races at event

  • Sun 15 Mar 2026
  • #1 of 2
Carver Barracks, Saffron Walden
Essex 20

09:30

Age 18 & over

£32-£34

  • 20 miles road running
  • Sun 15 Mar 2026
  • #2 of 2
Carver Barracks, Saffron Walden
Essex 20 | Essex County Road Running Championships

09:30

Age 18 & over

£22

  • 20 miles road running

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