ABP Southampton Marathon Festival
Run Southampton’s Streets in 2026
The ABP Southampton Marathon Festival returns in 2026, bringing runners together from across the UK for a full weekend of movement, music and community, marking 10 years since it first began in 2016. Whether you’re chasing a personal best, taking on your first race, or supporting from the sidelines, this is one of the South Coast’s standout sporting events.
With multiple race distances, a refreshed start and finish area, and a packed programme across the weekend, the festival offers plenty of ways to get involved.
Weekend agenda
Music Moves Stage: Saturday 2 May 2026
Before the big day, head to Guildhall Square for a pre-marathon shakeout festival. From 10.30am - 3pm there will be a range of low-pressure activities to enjoy led by local businesses and professional instructors including fitness workshops and yoga sessions.
- 10.45am - 3pm – Race talks and circuit challenges with Run Company (FREE)
- 11.30am - 12.15pm – movement workshop led by ZoieLogic Dance Theatre
- 12.45am - 1.15pm – Beginner Hula Hoop Fitness Workshop by Caz Rock-a-hula
- 1.30pm - 2pm – Intermediate Hula Hoop Fitness Workshop by Caz Rock-a-hula
- 2.30pm - 3pm – Hot yoga workshop led by Hotpod Yoga (for ages 16+)
To book your place for any of the above activities click here.
Race Day: Sunday 3 May 2026
Choose your distance and take in Southampton’s parks, waterfront and city centre landmarks along the way:
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Marathon – A full city challenge for experienced runners
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Half Marathon – A popular route with a mix of coast and green space
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10K – A shorter but rewarding city run
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5K – Ideal for beginners and those looking for a relaxed pace
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Fun Run – Get the whole family moving with this short 1-mile route
To enter, head to the marathon's event page here.
Please note: Entry deadlines and pricing tiers are set by the event organisers. Early booking is recommended to secure your place.
Marathon After Party: Sunday 3 May 2026
Finish the weekend off at the official post-race party at O2 Guildhall Southampton. Open to runners, supporters and anyone looking to enjoy the atmosphere, the evening will feature a line-up of live bands and solo acts. This is a ticketed event - make sure to snap up your tickets ahead of time here to avoid missing out!
- 6.30pm – 7.30pm – Feel-good acoustic sets, from 60s classics to modern hits, performed by Calum Lintott
- 7.30pm – 9.00pm – DJ Flash (Craig David UK tour DJ), bringing an urban set with an RnB edge
- 9.00pm – 10.00pm – Good Times, a live band playing funk, soul and disco classics
What's new for 2026?
Updated Start & Finish Area
The 2026 festival introduces a refreshed start and finish layout, designed to improve the runner and spectator experience. Expect clearer access, more space, and a better flow on race day. Runners will begin at Dock Gate 8 which can be accessed via Herbert Walker Avenue. There will be plenty of signage and marshals around to help guide you to where you need to go, along with baggae drop off area through secure lorries with numbered tags stationed inside the docks.
Spitfire Flypast
A highlight of the day, the iconic Spitfire display will return with an eight-minute flypast at approximately 8.30am, passing over visitors at the new Dock Gate 8 start line. The moment also celebrates 90 years since the aircraft’s first flight in 1936, designed by Reginald Joseph Mitchell right here in the city.
Road closures and travel information
Temporary road closures will be in place across Southampton on race day to ensure the safety of participants and spectators. For full details, maps and resident information, visit the official event website here.
If you’re planning to travel into the city, allow extra time and check routes in advance. If you are travelling from outside the city, please visit our Getting Here page.
Medal holder offers
Finished your race? Celebrate with exclusive offers across the city. A range of restaurants, cafés and attractions will be offering discounts for medal holders on race day. Check back here soon for more details!
Plan your visit
Make a weekend of it and explore everything Southampton has to offer while you’re here. From places to eat and drink to cultural attractions and green spaces, there’s plenty to discover before and after the race
Stay updated
More details, including final race information, event schedules and offers, will be added as they are confirmed.
Check back regularly or follow Visit Southampton for the latest updates or head to the official marathon website here.
