If you’re searching for a Cornwall half marathon in 2026, you probably want one of two things: a clear list of races you can actually enter, and a sense of what each one is like. Cornwall has a brilliant mix of road and multi-terrain half marathons, with everything from scenic coastal routes to tougher, hillier challenges.
Below are several well-known half marathon Cornwall events that already have 2026 listings live, along with a few simple tips to help you pick the right race for your goals.
Cornwall Half Marathon 2026 events to consider
Run Falmouth – Half Marathon (Falmouth)
A popular spring half marathon with a strong race-day atmosphere and coastal scenery. Listed for Sunday 15 March 2026. https://www.sientries.co.uk/event.php?elid=Y&event_id=14945
Cardinham Half & Full Marathon (near Bodmin / Cardinham Woods)
A trail/multi-terrain style event through Cardinham Woods, listed for Saturday 7 February 2026. Expect a tougher course underfoot than a standard road half. https://www.resultsbase.net/event/7445
Beacon Beast – “Beastly Half” (Bodmin)
A multi-terrain half marathon option (“Beastie McBeastRace / The Beastly Half”), listed for Sunday 19 April 2026. This one is known for scenery and a proper challenge. https://beaconbeast.org.uk/
Truro Half Marathon (Truro)
A classic Cornish road half-marathon, listed for Sunday 13 September 2026, and part of the Cornish Grand Prix series. https://cornwallrunning.co.uk/
Eden Marathon & Half-Marathon (near St Austell / Eden Project area)
A big late-season event on a multi-terrain route, listed for Sunday 18 October 2026. Entries are noted as opening in spring. https://www.edenproject.com/visit/whats-on/eden-marathon-and-half-marathon
Tip: Race calendars can change, so always check the organiser page before travelling or booking accommodation.
How to choose the right half marathon in Cornwall
If it’s your first half marathon:
Pick a friendly road event with a supportive atmosphere and straightforward logistics. Spring races are also great because they give you a winter base and a clear training runway.
If you want a PB attempt:
Look for road-based events and avoid the multi-terrain races where footing, hills and surfaces can make times unpredictable.
If you want the “Cornwall experience”:
Choose races that lean into Cornwall’s scenery and character. You might not run your fastest time, but you’ll finish with a bigger grin.
Training for a Cornwall half marathon in 2026 (without overthinking it)
Most runners do well with:
- 3 runs per week (easy + steady/quality + long run)
- a gradual build (no sudden jumps)
- a lighter week every 3–4 weeks
- a bit of strength work (even 15 minutes helps)
And if you’re local, training with a club makes the whole process easier: you get structure, pacing buddies, and the motivation boost that comes from turning up with others when the weather’s doing its worst.
(We’ve also shared a wider Cornwall race guide on the Carn Runners site already — worth a look if you’re building your 2026 calendar.) https://www.carnrunners.co.uk/top-cornwall-races-2026
