Community urged to get involved with the return of the Dartmoor Marathon

The Dartmoor Marathon, set to make its highly anticipated return on April 12, 2026, after a hiatus of more than 30 years, is seeking enthusiastic volunteers to join its team. From people looking after drink stations to stewards along the route, this is a fabulous community event offering the perfect opportunity for everyone to get involved. The marathon has already received lots of entries, and with ten months to go, it is expected that up to 1,000 runners will take part in the race.

Supported by Tavistock-based Flapjackery, this challenging run will traverse the iconic Dartmoor National Park, showcasing some of the UK's most breathtaking scenery.

The race director, Dave Chanter from Peter Tavy, brings extensive experience to the marathon, having founded the Tavistock Run Project and coached athletes to English Schools Championships level. He says: “The marathon is coming together and we are well ahead with our planning, from officially measuring the route, to getting t-shirts printed to publicise the event. We’re delighted that entries are coming in, and hopefully it will be a fabulous showcase for Tavistock, Dartmoor and the marathon running community. We’d love for the local community to feel like they are welcome to get involved and support the runners along the route.”

Carol Myott, Managing Director of Flapjackery which has made possible the return of the marathon, said: “Tavistock is where Flapjackery was born and we are so fond of the town. We’re delighted to be involved with the return of the marathon and hope it will be a wonderful event for Tavistock. We hope that everyone turns out to cheer on the runners, enjoy the camaraderie and make a day of it.”  

The marathon promises to 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 culminate with a grand finish at the Town Hall in Tavistock, where runners will be celebrated for completing this scenic and challenging marathon.

To sign up as a volunteer click the link https://www.dartmoormarathon.co.uk/e/the-dartmoor-marathon-12659

Entries are open and can be made via the official website: www.dartmoormarathon.co.uk.