Essar Chester Half Marathon

5.0 · 1 review
Active Leisure Events Ltd logo

From Active Leisure Events Ltd

  • Date Sun 17th May 2026
  • Time 09:00
  • Location Chester, Cheshire
  • Price £40.80
  • Races 2 races
  • Distances Half Marathon

Top rated

This is a five star event

Event summary

Get ready to lace up your running shoes for the Essar Chester Half Marathon, taking place on Sunday, May 17th, 2026, in the enchanting city of Chester, Cheshire! Organised by Active Leisure Events Ltd, this iconic race is one of the UK’s longest established and most celebrated half marathons, marking its impressive 44th edition. The race welcomes participants of all ages and abilities, making it the perfect opportunity for both seasoned runners and newcomers to the half marathon scene.

As part of the Chester Triple Medal Series, runners can earn a special, larger gold medal by completing the 10K and Marathon or Metric Marathon within the same year. Experience the vibrant atmosphere as you start and finish in the heart of Chester, surrounded by its rich Roman and Medieval history. The scenic route showcases the city’s breathtaking landmarks and the beautiful surrounding countryside, all cheered on by enthusiastic local supporters. Whether you're aiming for personal bests or simply want to enjoy a fantastic day out, the Essar Chester Half Marathon promises an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this incredible event!

Essar Chester Half Marathon

Sun 17th May 2026

Runners, surrounded by cheering spectators, participate in a lively street race. A man in a blue shirt and black shorts jumps energetically with his arms raised. The scene is vibrant with a mix of runners and enthusiastic onlookers along the course. Two runners smile and hold hands triumphantly as they cross the finish line of a race. They wear matching "Vegan Runners" shirts, with bibs labeled "2204" and "2203". Spectators cheer from behind barriers adorned with "Essar" branding and motivational messages. Runners crossing the finish line at the Chester Half Marathon, celebrating with raised hands and smiling. Spectators line the street, cheering and taking photos. Bright banners and flags with event branding are visible in the background. A group of runners participating in a road race, wearing orange shirts with race bibs. They are surrounded by a cheering crowd behind barriers. The athlete in the center is running with determination, while others follow closely behind. Bright and sunny day. A group of runners in a marathon race, with spectators lining the streets and cheering. Two men in the foreground are running side by side, each wearing a race bib with numbers. The crowd appears enthusiastic, and the atmosphere is lively. Runners high-five spectators during a city marathon. The street is lined with cheering supporters, banners, and shops. An arched bridge is in the background. The runners are wearing various colorful athletic outfits and numbered bibs. Three men proudly display their finisher medals and event bags after completing a half marathon. They are wearing orange race shirts and appear sweaty and tired but happy. Behind them, other participants and event staff can be seen, along with a white tent and a storefront. A man wearing an orange shirt and a marathon medal stands smiling with both thumbs up. He is among a group of people outdoors, some wearing similar shirts and a volunteer in a neon vest. Tudor-style buildings and a canopy are visible in the background. Three people in matching orange running shirts and medals stand together holding goody bags. They are smiling, with an old brick wall in the background. The shirts and medals indicate participation in the ESSAR Chester Marathon.

Organiser's Description

The Essar Chester Half Marathon is one of the UK’s longest established and most highly regarded half marathons, starting and finishing in the historic Roman/Medieval international destination city of Chester. Enter early to enjoy our discounted prices.

All abilities, ages and speeds are welcome in the award winning, Essar Chester Half Marathon. 2026 marks the 44th edition of this historic race. It’s the second event of the Chester Triple Medal Series (enter and finish our 10K & Marathon or Metric Marathon in the same year for extra special, extra large and extra gold medal). Join us for what will be an amazing day

The Essar Chester Half Marathon is a great introductory race for new half marathon runners and an ideal stepping stone for runners aiming for a marathon in the future. The race will also host the England Athletics Age Group Masters Half Marathon Championship adding to an already unforgettable atmosphere.

The event boasts a lively city centre start and finish, with a route that takes in all the city centre iconic sights and landmarks, surrounding picturesque countryside and all the enthusiasm you could ask for from the Cestrian supporters who line the course to cheer you on.

WHATEVER YOUR REASON FOR RUNNING, WE'RE HERE TO HELP YOU ACHIEVE GREATNESS

The event organiser will send you a confirmation email separate to the Find A Race confirmation email, that will contain important information regarding the event and to acknowledge they have received your entry.

Races

  • Essar Chester Half Marathon - EARLY BIRD

    £40.80

    UK Athletics (UKA) save £2.00

    Booking for more than 1?
  • Essar Chester Half Marathon - Green Runner - EARLY BIRD

    If You Enter as a Green Runner, You Will NOT Receive a Finisher's Medal, T-Shirt & Goody Bag. Instead the Cost of These Items Will Be Donated to Our Official Race Charity. This Will Help Us Reduce Waste and Support Our Local Race Charity. Your Race Number Will Clearly Show You Are a Green Runner So You Can Collect Your Water at the Finish.

    £40.80

    UK Athletics (UKA) save £2.00

    Booking for more than 1?

Event Video

Reviews

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5.0

1 review

CK
Cameron

·2 years ago

Really well ran event, would highly recommend.

Location

Racecourse, New Crane Street, Chester, CH1 2LY, United Kingdom

Who's In

See who else is doing this event

Doing

Simon Harper

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17 May 2026

£40.80