The Somerset and Exmoor Coastal Festival recently returned for its second year, offering a diverse range of activities designed to showcase the county’s stunning coastline. With the aim of boosting tourism and supporting local businesses, the festival features over 60 events, including two new marathons, set to take place over an eight-day period.
Organized by the King Charles III England Coast Path team in collaboration with local outdoor events organizers, the festival will include a marathon and an ultra-marathon, both part of a series of events aimed at enticing both residents and visitors to explore Somerset’s hidden coastal treasures.
Funded by EDF Energy as part of the Hinkley Tourism Action Partnership, the festival seeks to draw attention to the area and provide support for communities impacted by the ongoing construction of the Hinkley Point C nuclear power station.
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The marathon will start at the Northgate Docks in Bridgwater town center, passing through notable landmarks along the King Charles III England Coast Path and culminating with a lap of Brean Down. Meanwhile, the ultra-marathon, spanning just over 62 miles, will commence at the hands monument on Minehead seafront and include various scenic stops before finishing in Bridgwater alongside the standard marathon.
The festival will also feature the 80 Miles in Eight Days challenge, broken down into eight lengthy walks along the entire Somerset coast, and a variety of other cultural, dining, and leisure events to attract a wide audience.
Isobel Pring, part of the Somerset Trail Partnership for the King Charles III England Coast Path, expressed enthusiasm about the festival’s ability to introduce newcomers to the region’s rich geology, wildlife, history, and spectacular scenery. Over 60 events have been lined up, coinciding with the Somerset Art Weeks and Brean Country and Western Festival, providing visitors with an array of activities to enjoy.
For more information and registration for the marathon or ultra-marathon, visit www.somersetcoastfestival.co.uk.