The Cross-Bay Half-Marathon

Timetable

• 08:50 | Run briefing
• 09:00 | Run start

Overview

The only half-marathon in the world that crosses a tidal ba!

This unique 13.1-mile route snakes from the start at Arnside Promenade, across Morecambe Bay, towards the finish line at Cark Airfield. Runners will be guided throughout by expert local King’s Guide to the Sands, Michael Wilson.

This bucket-list challenge is an experience like no other. The route leads runners across the legendary sands of Morecambe Bay, where every step helps support local people affected by cancer and bereavement.

Safety

A runner's information pack will be issued to all participants via email. Runner safety is the top priority - The Guide to the Sands will assess the Bay in the weeks before the event and on race day. If river conditions are unsafe, an alternative route will be implemented on the day, allowing the half marathon to go ahead without crossing the river channel.

Cut off

4 hours.

All runners will need to be able to complete a half-marathon within a four-hour window.

Event HQ

The Promenade
Arnside
Carnforth
Lake District National Park
LA5 0AD
UK

A half marathon adventure

Morecambe Bay is one of the most extraordinary natural landscapes in the UK, and one of the few places in the world where you can run directly across a tidal bay. Stretching between Lancashire and Cumbria, it is the largest expanse of intertidal sands and mudflats in the UK, revealing vast open plains of sand when the tide retreats. 

Twice a day, the sea withdraws to expose miles of shimmering sands, creating a surreal landscape that feels more like a desert than a coastline. From the middle of the bay, you’re surrounded by sweeping views towards the Lake District fells, distant coastlines and huge open skies. It's a dramatic, ever-changing environment that few runners ever experience.

Crossing the bay is steeped in centuries of history. For hundreds of years travellers, traders and pilgrims used this route as the quickest way between Lancashire and Cumbria, guided safely across the shifting sands by local experts. Today that tradition continues with the King’s Guide to the Sands, who leads organised crossings across the bay’s constantly changing channels and sandbanks. 

Running here is therefore far more than just a race. It’s an adventure across a living landscape shaped by tides, rivers and weather; a place where every crossing is unique, and where the sense of scale, history and exposure makes every mile unforgettable.

Included

• Event entry
• Comprehensive guide
• Transport information
• 2 x official Kings Guide to the Sands: Michael Wilson at the front and Raymond Porter at the rear (both on tractors)
• Finisher’s medal
• Event T-shirt
• Free parking
• Access to the exclusive Runner’s Village at Cark Airfield

An iconic route that should be on every runner’s bucket-list!

This was undoubtedly a challenge but an achievable one all the same. The terrain makes this race one of the most unique and memorable I’ve ever attempted.

Such a fun challenge that was very well run. I felt safe and supported throughout. One of the best I've ever attended.

An awesome summer challenge for runners of all levels.

Don’t be afraid to get stuck in; embrace the sand and water for an incredible cause.

After experiencing a cancer diagnosis and receiving help from CancerCare, I wanted to support the charity by entering a challenging event. I had the best day running the half-marathon. There was a great community spirit - crossing the finish line brought up many emotions.

CancerCare

Providing help, therapies and support to people affected by cancer and bereavement.

CancerCare is a local, independent charity dedicated to helping adults and children affected by cancer or bereavement in North Lancashire and South Cumbria. Over 90% of their income comes from donations, fundraising and gifts in wills.

Entry fees