Lace up your running shoes and prepare to take on the Dartmoor Marathon, which is set to return after more than 30 years.
Supported by Tavistock-based Flapjackery, the challenging run will take place on April 12, 2026, and will cross the moors, taking in some of the UK’s most iconic scenery within the Dartmoor National Park.
The race director is Dave Chanter, from Peter Tavy, who brings extensive experience to the marathon, having founded the Tavistock Run Project and coached athletes to English Schools Championships level. He’s also a seasoned runner with over 50 years of experience. Mr Chanter said: “We are excited to be able to bring the marathon back with the support of many volunteers, communities in and around Tavistock, the Dartmoor National Park, and of course Flapjackery, whose support has made the event possible. We hope it will become an established event in the marathon calendar and that people will make the trip to the southwest to run in absolutely stunning scenery.”
Carol Myott, Managing Director of Flapjackery, said: “We are delighted to be able to support the marathon. Tavistock is where Flapjackery was born 10 years ago, and where we continue to bake our handmade flapjacks. Dartmoor is a truly stunning part of the world, and to support what we hope will become a high point in the calendar is an absolute privilege.
“Flapjackery will be there on the day, fuelling runners with flapjacks – the perfect snack for a long, endurance-packed race. It’s a way for Flapjackery to give back, support the local community, and celebrate the adventurous spirit of Dartmoor.”
The marathon will cover the global standard distance of 26 miles, 385 yards, a distance first established at the 1908 London Olympic Games. The extra 385 yards were added at the request of royalty so the race could finish in front of Queen Alexandra’s box. The race became legendary for its dramatic conclusion, when Dorando Pietri, exhausted and disoriented, crossed the finish line with assistance but was disqualified, losing to Johnny Hayes. Despite this, Pietri was hailed as a hero and awarded a special cup by the Queen, cementing the event’s place in history.
While the Dartmoor Marathon is unlikely to feature such drama, it will take runners through some of the most breathtaking scenery. The route begins on Plymouth Road, turning left into Pixon Lane, then right onto Whitchurch Road, passing the Whitchurch Post Office. The course continues through the villages, offering multiple opportunities for locals to cheer on the runners, including key points at Pennycomequick, Moorshop, Merrivale, Princetown, and Dousland.
The course then leads to Burrator Reservoir, following a clockwise route around the reservoir, before continuing through Walkhampton and Horrabridge and Whitchurch. The race will finish at the Town Hall in Tavistock, where runners will be celebrated for completing this scenic and challenging marathon.
Entries are already open for the 2026 Dartmoor Marathon, supported by Flapjackery, and can be made via the website www.dartmoormarathon.co.uk. There is an early bird offer, valid until April 1, which enables a £10 discount off the £45 entry fee (£47 for unaffiliated runners).
For more information about Flapjackery, please visit www.flapjackery.co.uk.
(Photo credits: Tom Dauben).
