Overview
The Southampton Marathon draws approximately 1,350 finishers each April on an urban road in Southampton, United Kingdom. The event combines big-city logistics with a smaller-field atmosphere than London's spring marathon scene. The route passes the old walls area, parks, and port-city roads connected to the south coast waterfront. Old walls, parks, and port-city roads climb toward the south coast waterfront on a course that blends big-city logistics with a smaller-field feel.
Southampton Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
Southampton Marathon 2027 race day
The next Southampton Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 4 April 2027 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.
Southampton Marathon course route
Starts and finishes in Southampton's city center. The route passes the old walls area, parks, and port-city roads connected to the south coast waterfront. Port-city rollers and parkland rises shape the middle miles, with old-town spectators cheering along the walls finish approach.
Southampton Marathon elevation profile
The Southampton 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 Southampton Marathon uses open online registration at southamptonmarathon.co.uk with no ballot or qualifying time for the general field. Sign-up for the April 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 Southampton Marathon elevation profile?
- The Southampton 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 Southampton Marathon?
- The Southampton Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts and finishes in Southampton's city center.
- What time does the Southampton Marathon start?
- The 2027 Southampton Marathon starts at 9:00 am local time on Sunday, 4 April 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.southamptonmarathon.co.uk/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- When is the Southampton Marathon and how do I register?
- Southampton Marathon is typically held in April. Registration opens through https://www.southamptonmarathon.co.uk/ and may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.
- Is the Southampton Marathon course flat?
- The course includes rolling with moderate climbs. Study the official course profile at https://www.southamptonmarathon.co.uk/ before setting pace targets.
- What landmarks does the Southampton Marathon pass?
- The route passes the old walls area, parks, and port-city roads connected to the south coast waterfront.
- What weather should runners expect at Southampton Marathon?
- Usually cool and breezy with maritime spring weather.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
