Steaming to the Coast 2025

** SAVE THE DATE – SATURDAY 12th APRIL 2025 **

Channel Events are super excited to be bringing you this brand new trail running event that started in 2024 that utilises the longest standard gauge steam railway line in the UK!

Steaming to the Coast will see entrants ride the steam train along this beautiful heritage line from the coastal town of Minehead to the lovely village of Bishops Lydeard which is located at the foot of the stunning Quantock Hills AONB.

There are three distances to choose from; 11 km, 11 miles or a full marathon. Entrants will take the train from Minehead to Bishops Lydeard taking in the beautiful West Somerset countryside. Marathoners will disembark at Bishops Lydeard to start their 26.2 mile trail run back to Minehead, cheered on by the 11 mile and 11 km entrants. 11 mile and 11km entrants will then ride the train back to their start points of either Williton or Washford before running back to Minehead (the gateway to Exmoor National Park) and finishing outside Minehead Station.

There is now also an “under your own steam” entry for you to make you own way to the start lines.  As there will be no steam train ride to the start lines, we’ve discounted these entries for you!

You will still need to register at the Event HQ which will be at the station in Minehead along with everyone else, but you’ll then need to make your way to the start lines under your own steam.  ‘Under Your Own Steam’ entrants must make their own way to each starting point arriving 15 minutes prior to the allotted start time.  Unfortunately you won’t be able to register at your starting location as having 4 separate registration locations would not work logistically!

The full marathon route takes in the  wonderful views from the main Ridgeline of the Quantock Hills before dropping down to Williton where the route follows section of the Steam Coast Trail and the England Coast Path.

After finishing this epic challenge you’ll definitely have earned a fish and chip supper washed down with a pint of Somerset cider.

Train Departs Minehead: 08:30

Marathon Starts: 10:00

11 Mile Start: 11:15

11 KM Start: 12:00