Overview
The New Forest Marathon draws approximately 1,200 finishers each September on a forest road in Brockenhurst, United Kingdom. Natural scenery and the presence of free-roaming animals make it distinct from urban UK marathons. The route passes heathland, forest roads, roaming ponies, and open stretches through the national park. Heathland, forest roads, and open stretches roll past roaming ponies through the national park on a course defined by natural scenery rather than city landmarks.
New Forest Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
New Forest Marathon 2026 race day
The next New Forest Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 6 September 2026 with a 9:00 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 150 m of climbing on a rolling with moderate climbs layout.
New Forest Marathon course route
Starts and finishes in Brockenhurst in the New Forest. The route passes heathland, forest roads, roaming ponies, and open stretches through the national park. Forest-track rollers and heathland rises reward patient pacing, with pony-watching spectators at Brockenhurst and forest aid stations.
New Forest Marathon elevation profile
The New Forest Marathon course is rolling with moderate climbs over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 150 metres of climbing and 140 metres of descent, with a net climb of 10 metres from start to finish.
Entry requirements
The New Forest Marathon uses open online registration at newforestmarathon.co.uk with no ballot or qualifying time for the general field. Sign-up for the September race typically opens the previous year and places are allocated first-come, first-served. Charity bibs are available through partner organisations when general entry closes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the New Forest Marathon elevation profile?
- The New Forest Marathon has 150 metres of total climbing and 140 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling with moderate climbs, with 10 metres of net climb from start to finish.
- How long is the New Forest Marathon?
- The New Forest Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Forest road starting and finishing in Brockenhurst in the New Forest.
- What time does the New Forest Marathon start?
- The 2026 New Forest Marathon starts at 9:00 am local time on Sunday, 6 September 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.newforestmarathon.co.uk/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- Where does the New Forest Marathon start and finish?
- Starts and finishes in Brockenhurst in the New Forest. Updated course maps are published at https://www.newforestmarathon.co.uk/ each year.
- When is the New Forest Marathon and how do I register?
- New Forest Marathon is typically held in September. Registration opens through https://www.newforestmarathon.co.uk/ and may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.
- Is the New Forest Marathon course flat?
- The course includes rolling with moderate climbs. Study the official course profile at https://www.newforestmarathon.co.uk/ before setting pace targets.
- What landmarks does the New Forest Marathon pass?
- The route passes heathland, forest roads, roaming ponies, and open stretches through the national park.
- What weather should runners expect at New Forest Marathon?
- Usually mild and damp with soft forest air and possible showers.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
