Why not get away from it all and enjoy a weekend at Thorpe Park Holiday Park, running a marathon (or a double) in the company of like-minded others? If you're in, then pack your trainers for The Maravan on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 November. 

Pitch up and tick off seven laps (and miles) at The Cleethorpes Maravan Festival of Running. A popular and unusual event from Darren Rowe and Vigilantes Running, it’s aimed at all abilities - perfect for the first time marathoner with its flexible start times and cut offs and enough to offer the experienced campaigner.  

Saturday is Maravan Day 1 and also includes the 4-Berth Relay. Sunday is Maravan Day 2 and the Half Maravan - a half marathon requiring the completion of four shorter laps. Both are good options for anyone not yet ready for a marathon.    

Whilst it’s held in a location containing static caravans there’s nothing static about the event itself as runners from across the country complete multiple laps to achieve their chosen distance. Running 3.7 mile loops on a largely traffic-free, flat and paved course flanked by cheerful marshals. You cannot get lost on this route!

Runners will pass a generously stocked feed station each time, this contains a wide variety of nibbles (many of them vegan) including the legendary brownie baked by Darren’s wife, all of which will keep everyone fuelled and happy during their laps. This adds a whole new meaning to the expression a ‘running buffet’. 

The food theme continues with the goody bag, presented to finishers along with their bespoke medal and beer.  

Finally, the Maravan is an official event recognised by the 100 Marathon Club.  

It sounds too good to miss. For more information and how to enter, visit The Maravan website.

Image: Cleethorpes Maravan