We're turning back the clock for the ABP Southampton Marathon Festival 2027, and you're invited along for the ride!
Dig out those tube socks, dust off your sweatbands and get ready for a little 70s nostalgia, because this year's event is taking inspiration from a very special milestone in Southampton's history. On Sunday 11th April 2027, thousands of runners will take to the streets of Southampton as we celebrate 50 years of the iconic Itchen Bridge, and we've designed our 2027 medal and tee to mark the occasion!
50 Years of an Iconic Southampton Landmark
First opened on 1st June 1977, the Itchen Bridge has been connecting communities across Southampton for five decades. Stretching across the River Itchen, it's become one of the city's most recognisable landmarks and, for many of our runners, one of the most memorable parts of race day. Whether you've conquered the climb before or you're preparing to tackle it for the first time, there's something pretty special about taking on the Itchen Bridge. And in 2027, it's getting the celebration it deserves.
Introducing Your 2027 Medal & Tee
A little piece of Southampton history, with a retro twist. This year's medal and tee pay homage to the Itchen Bridge and its 50th anniversary, bringing together one of the city's most iconic landmarks with inspiration from the decade it first opened.
Think 1977. Think retro running. Think a finish line reward worth showing off.
We've taken a step back in time to celebrate how far Southampton has come, while creating something special for the runners making their own history in 2027.
Whether you're taking on your first 5K, chasing a 10K PB or preparing for 13.1 or 26.2 miles, we can't wait to see you cross that finish line and celebrate your achievement.
Piece Two of Five: The Penta Medal Series Continues
Five years. Five medals. One Hampshire Rose.
Our 2027 medal isn't just a celebration of the Itchen Bridge's 50th anniversary. It's also the second piece of our exclusive Penta Medal Series! Launched in 2026, the Penta Medal Series is a five-year challenge that sees runners collect a uniquely designed medal each year until 2030. Each medal connects with the next, eventually coming together to form the iconic Hampshire Rose.
And for 2027, the Itchen Bridge takes centre stage as piece number two!
[INSERT IMAGE OF 2026 & 2027 MEDALS CONNECTED]
Missed Out on Your First Piece in 2026? It's Not Too Late!
If you missed the 2026 event, don't worry. You can still get your hands on the first piece of the collection through our 2026 Virtual Event! Choose your distance, complete your run wherever and whenever suits you within the virtual event rules, and earn your 2026 medal. That means you can still catch up, start building your Hampshire Rose and join us in Southampton on Sunday 11th April 2027 to collect piece number two.
Already got your first piece? You're one step closer to completing the collection! Secure your 2027 place today.
Five medals. One incredible collection. A running journey worth remembering.
We're Bringing the 70s Back to Southampton!
The medal and tee are just the beginning. For 2027, we're embracing the spirit of the 1970s and bringing a little retro fun to race day.
Tube socks? Absolutely. Sweatbands? Encouraged. Short shorts? We'll leave that one up to you!
We'd love to see runners embrace the theme, whether that's a full 70s-inspired running outfit or simply adding a retro accessory to your usual race-day kit. It's all about bringing some extra personality, colour and fun to the streets of Southampton. So, if you've been looking for an excuse to bring back the sweatbands, consider this your sign.
One City. One Day. Your Way.
On Sunday 11th April 2027, the ABP Southampton Marathon Festival returns with something for everyone.
Choose your challenge:
- 5K – The perfect introduction to race day or a chance to chase a faster time.
- 10K – A brilliant challenge for runners ready to push themselves.
- Half Marathon – 13.1 miles of Southampton streets, atmosphere and achievement.
- Marathon – The ultimate 26.2-mile city challenge.
Whether you're running for a PB, a charity, a personal milestone or simply for the love of it, we'd love you to be part of this special year.
50 years of the Itchen Bridge. One unforgettable race day.
Ready to make your own history?
SECURE YOUR 2027 PLACE
One City. One Day. Your Way.
.png)
.avif)
