Race Day 21K

The Half Marathon begins at Dock Gate 8, at Southampton’s City Cruise Port, starting alongside the day’s other races and heading out of the docks onto Southampton’s waterfront.

Runners pass Mayflower Park, the Red Funnel ferry terminals, Queens Park and views of Southampton Harbour before approaching one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, the Itchen Bridge.

The Half Marathon is one of three distances to cross the Itchen Bridge, tackling the crossing twice. On the first ascent, runners face east with clear views across the River Itchen toward Woolston and Weston Shore. The route then follows the marathon course through Woolston — the historic manufacturing home of the first Supermarine Spitfire — before continuing along the shoreline. New for 2026, runners join an extended section along Weston Parade, adding further distance beside the water, before looping back through Woolston and returning to the bridge for a second crossing. From the bridge’s peak, the course opens onto views of the docks, the city skyline and, on a clear day, the New Forest.

Onto the iconic sports section of the route, Half Marathon runners are navigated pitch-side of St Mary’s Stadium, home of Southampton FC Saints—a fantastic moment for local sport enthusiasts. From there, runners cross Northam Bridge toward Bitterne Triangle, a popular race-day highlight featuring a 4-hour performance by Ukulele Jam. The route then rejoins the scenic waterfront through Riverside Park, following the River Itchen further inland. Runners gain elevation on Burgess Road toward the University of Southampton and University Road, before easing into a downhill stretch through the wide open green space of Southampton Common, leading into the final stretch down London Road.

Runners cross the finish on Above Bar Street and are met in the Guildhall Square by volunteers to receive their well-deserved Half Marathon Medal and post-race refreshments.

On-route entertainment, Water Stations, Toilet facilities and fuel stations will feature across all races, providing support and atmosphere around the course.

A varied route combining waterfront views, city landmarks and green spaces, the Southampton Half Marathon offers a complete tour of the city over 13.1 miles.