Spectator Guide
Race day is about more than split-times — spectators deserve great coffee, a clear view, and somewhere to warm chilly fingers. Here’s everything you need to know:
Where to Refuel
Mimi’s Bakes — Race Village
Cakes, brownies and other sweet treats. Perfect for a post-cheer sugar boost. Take-away only.
Blue Flag Café — Opposite Race HQ on Saturday
Hot and cold drinks, ice creams, sandwiches and a full light-meal menu. Indoor tables plus an outdoor terrace if the sun cooperates.
Rainbow Café — opposite the Sprint transition area
Famous for its cooked breakfasts and generous lunch specials. Also serves cakes and barista coffee. Outdoor seating available.
Miss Margharita Pizza Van — Race Village
Freshly-baked pizzas served all weekend. Grab a slice while you watch finish-line sprints.
Ice-Cream Van — roaming
Usually parked along the promenade when the weather’s friendly.
Harwich & Dovercourt Cricket Club — Post Race
The Cricket Club, located on Low Road field (Google Maps), what3words ///sprouted.proposes.tentacles, will be opening around 12:30pm on both days with an open bar and will be offering 25% off ALL drinks ordered (multiple times) - just show them your finishers medal.
(Card payments are welcome, but a bit of cash can be a lifesaver if signal drops.)
Best Spots to Watch
Sea Swim (Saturday - conditions permitting)
Stand anywhere along the promenade overlooking the sea from West End Beach to the lighthouses for panoramic views of the start and exit. Arrive early for front-row rail space. ;-)
Pool Swim (Sunday)
Dovercourt Swimming Pool has a small spectator gallery
For the Juniors, enter via the Swimming Pool front entrance and follow the signs up the stairs, through the studio and down (please avoid walking through the changing rooms). Whilst the Juniors are racing, the side entrance and steps will be blocked off.
For the Sprint race, you can enter via the side steps and entrance once the last Junior swimmers have exited the pool buildibg but until then, use the stairs-studio route.
Junior Bike & Run (sunday)
Both loops stay entirely on Low Road Field, so wander the perimeter for 360-degree visibility. Please stay clear of the finish chute and gantry - in previous years, over-keen parents have encroached on this area and got in the way of juniors coming into the finish. Please remain off the course and be mindful of those competing.
Sprint & Olympic Run (Both Days)
The promenade doubles as a track and picnic spot. Stake out a bench near the finish straight for repeat athlete sightings and easy access to wonderful views.
Moving Around the Venue
When walking from the parking on Sunday to Race HQ, please try and use the promenade rather than walking across the field if you can.
Please avoid walking or lingering near or around any finish gantries and chip timing areas/mats, unless you’re behind a spectator fence. In previous years, run routes have been blocked by over-keen spectators. If you need to pass across the run route, there is a designated crossing point marked on the map.
Follow the signed spectator routes around Race HQ and transition.
Do not enter penned areas — they’re restricted to athletes and officials.
Unsure where to stand? Ask a marshal; they’re the folks in hi-vis with all the answers.
Facilities
Public/Athlete Toilets (Saturday/Sunday): next to the Blue Flag Café.
Athlete Toilets (Sunday): inside Dovercourt Swimming Pool.
Public Toilets (Near the sea-swim start and parking): at West End beach car park.
Quick Tips
Coastal weather changes fast — bring layers and sunscreen.
Keep the course clear: avoid stepping over tape or barriers.
Cheer loudly, dispose of litter quietly — bins are plentiful.
Your enthusiasm turns a tough race into a memorable one for every athlete. Enjoy the food, the sea views, and the excitement of the finish line—we look forward to seeing you on race weekend!
Race HQ and transition area on Saturday for the Olympic Triathlon
Race HQ and transition area on Sunday for the Junior and Sprint Triathlon