Join over 10,000 runners for the ABP Marathon Southampton 2026, the South Coast’s premier running event. This award-winning festival brings the city to a standstill as participants of all abilities take to the streets to conquer one of five distinct distances. Whether you are chasing a personal best on the flat city stretches or simply soaking up the incredible community support, the atmosphere is electric from the starting gun to the final sprint across the finish line.
Iconic Landmarks and New 2026 Routes
The 2026 event introduces an exciting new start line at Dock Gate 8, providing a dramatic maritime backdrop for the beginning of your journey. The course is meticulously designed to showcase the very best of the city, offering runners a unique perspective on Southampton’s most famous landmarks:
- St Mary’s Stadium: Experience the thrill of running through the home of the Saints, a high-energy highlight for football fans and runners alike.
- The Itchen Bridge: Conquer the ascent for breathtaking views across Southampton Water, the Solent, and out toward the New Forest.
- Southampton Common: Find your rhythm in the tranquil greenery of the city’s largest park, a favourite spot for local runners.
- Historic Walls: Trace the path of history as you run past the medieval Bargate and the ancient city fortifications.
A Distance for Every Ability
The ABP Southampton Marathon Festival is designed to be inclusive, ensuring that everyone from elite athletes to young children can be part of the race day magic:
- Full Marathon (26.2 miles): A challenging two-lap course for those ready to test their ultimate endurance.
- Half Marathon (13.1 miles): A popular single-lap route that offers the full atmosphere with half the distance.
- 10K & 5K Races: Perfect for those looking for a fast-paced challenge or a first-time race experience.
- Mile Fun Run: A fantastic event for families and young children, starting and finishing in the heart of the city.
Event Schedule: Sunday 3 May 2026
The 2026 festival features a coordinated start for all main distances to maximise the race day buzz:
| Time | Event / Distance | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | Race Village Opens | Watts Park (next to Guildhall Square) |
| 09:00 | Mass Start (All Distances) | Dock Gate 8 (City Cruise Terminal) |
| 12:30 | Awards Ceremony | Guildhall Square Finish Gantry |
| 15:30 | Mile Fun Run Start | Above Bar Street (Finish Line) |
| 17:00 | Marathon After Party | City Centre Venues |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Where exactly is the new start line located?
- For 2026, the start line has moved to Dock Gate 8 at the City Cruise Terminal. Access is via Herbert Walker Avenue. Please note this is different from the finish line in Guildhall Square.
- Is there a bag drop service available?
- Yes, secure baggage lorries will be stationed at the Dock Gate 8 start area. Your bags will be transported to the finish area at Guildhall Square for you to collect after your race.
- Can I use headphones while I am running?
- Bone-conduction headphones are permitted, but in-ear or over-ear headphones are discouraged for safety reasons, as the course remains open to some marshalled traffic and emergency vehicles.
- What happens if I cannot complete the course within the time limit?
- The marathon has a strictly enforced cut-off time of 6 hours. If you fall behind the sweeper vehicle pace, you may be asked to move onto the pavement to allow roads to reopen.
- Are there water stations along the route?
- Yes, water stations are located approximately every 3 miles. Some stations will also provide energy gels or electrolytes, particularly for the Half Marathon and Full Marathon distances.