The Brighton Marathon: A Guide to the Famous Seaside Race

The Brighton Marathon is one of the UK's most iconic running events. Taking place each April in the charming seaside city of Brighton, the marathon attracts both elite athletes and charity runners from across the globe. With its fast, flat course along the Sussex coastline and lively crowds, it's a race like no other. This in-depth guide will provide you with everything you need to know about running or spectating at the iconic Brighton marathon.

The Brighton Marathon has become a landmark event in the UK running calendar. However, its origins are much more humble. The first Brighton marathon occurred on 18th April 2010, organised by renowned athlete Tim Hutchings. Just 669 competitors took part in that inaugural event. It was seen as a chance to bring a big city marathon to the South Coast region. Locals and tourists alike lined the streets to support those early competitors. 

The Brighton marathon has gone from strength to strength in the years since. By the 2012 event, competitor numbers had swelled to over 5,000. The marathon gained an official European Athletics Bronze Label in 2013. Major sponsors like Virgin Money have since backed the event. It is now Britain’s second biggest spring marathon behind only the legendary London event. Recent years have seen competitor numbers exceed 12,000. It has become a must-do race for any serious marathon runner.

The course records highlight the growing quality of elite competitors attracted to Brighton. The men’s record of 2:09:21 was set by Duncan Kibet in 2012. The women’s record of 2:24:33 was set by Birhane Dibaba in 2018. With growing prestige and rapid times, the Brighton Marathon is now a firm fixture in the diaries of both club and international runners.

The Brighton marathon route is a key part of this famous race’s appeal and challenge. Runners follow a looped course that heads east from Brighton to the picturesque town of Lewes, before returning west along the coast.

The route begins in Preston Park, just north of Brighton city centre. This wide open green space allows for an easy start and spectator access. Upon leaving the park, runners head downhill via Stanford Avenue towards the seafront. The opening miles tick by as competitors pass major Brighton landmarks like the Palace Pier, reaching Marley Lane at Mile 3. The route continues past Roedean School, perched dramatically on the clifftops above Brighton Marina. Competitors get early sea views before hitting Mile 6 at Rottingdean. Some rolling inland hills bring the first significant inclines around Beacon Hill. The halfway point is reached soon after in Lewes, with its medieval centre and cheering crowds. After looping through Lewes, runners are faced with the toughest inclines as the course returns to Brighton. A series of hills build from Mile 14 to Mile 18, cresting at 162 metres above sea level. Once these final climbs are conquered, however, competitors are rewarded with a long downhill stretch back into Brighton. The finishing stretch follows the sweeping Kings Road along the seafront. Competitors pass the illustrious Grand Hotel before turning onto Old Steine for a triumphant finish. With its seaside vistas and lively crowds, it's a fantastic setting for any runner to complete 26.2 gruelling miles.

For those considering entering the 2026 Brighton Marathon, here are some key details to help with planning. The 2026 event is scheduled for Sunday, 5th April, maintaining its traditional calendar slot and making it easy to structure a long-term training plan. Entries are expected to open in September 2025, so set a reminder to sign up promptly.

Brighton remains highly accessible thanks to strong transport links. Competitors can travel easily via road or rail on race day, with the marathon village and start line located a short walk from the central train station. Accommodation options are plentiful, but it's advisable to book early for the best rates. Achieving a Good for Age time for the London Marathon is a popular goal: typically requiring men to go sub 3 hours and women sub 3:30 hours. The fast, flat Brighton course presents an ideal chance for those looking to qualify for London. On race day, arrive at Preston Park nice and early; start waves will begin from 8:45 AM. Stay relaxed and conserve your energy for that spectacular finishing stretch along the Brighton seafront!

Preparing to run a marathon is a major undertaking. But committing to a thorough training plan can get you to the start line ready to achieve your goals. Here are some tips for structuring your Brighton marathon training:

• Give yourself enough time – Start thinking about marathon training 4-6 months out from race day. This gives time to build endurance and avoid injury.
• Mix-up training – Blend long runs, interval training, hill work and cross-training into your plan. This builds whole-body fitness.
• Increase mileage safely – Add around 10% more distance each week to safely expand your endurance. Have recovery weeks.
• Tune-up your race – Do shorter tune-up races like 10ks in the lead-up to test your progress. 
• Stay fuelled – Marathon training requires lots of calories and good nutrition. Proper hydration is also vital so your body can go the distance.
• Listen to your body – Don't ignore niggles and pains. Rest and recover when needed to avoid detrimental injuries.
• Prepare mentally – Use visualisation, pre-race nerve management and self-belief exercises. This boosts your mental stamina.
• Trust your training – You've put in the hard work. Have faith in your preparation to get you around on race day. Enjoy it!

The lively crowds are one of the Brighton Marathon's great assets. If you're planning to spectate, here are some top tips to catch all the action.

• Study the route map – Familiarise yourself with the different checkpoints like Hove Lawns or Rottingdean Windmill.
• Use public transport – Parking will be severely limited on race day. Get the train or bus to your chosen spectating spot instead.
• Get there early – Be in position at least 30 minutes before runners arrive to secure a good viewing place. 
• Bring supplies – Pack refreshments, snacks, umbrellas and anything else you might need for a long spectating stint. 
• Charge your phone – You’ll want a full battery to capture photos of your loved ones in action.
• Be safety conscious – Keep clear of the course and be aware of runners at all times.
• Make a flag or sign – Personalised banners help motivate your runners when they need it most. 
• Visit the finish – Head to Madeira Drive to congratulate runners and enjoy the party atmosphere.

Brighton in April provides the perfect backdrop for both runners and spectators at this coastal marathon. With its fast PB potential course profile, lively crowds and seaside charm, it's an unmissable fixture on the marathon calendar.

When is the Brighton marathon?

The Brighton Marathon typically takes place in early April. For 2026, it is scheduled for Sunday, April 5, 2026.

What time does the Brighton marathon start?

The Brighton Marathon starts at 9:45 AM on April 5, 2026.

Is the Brighton marathon hilly?

The Brighton Marathon route is relatively flat, with slight undulations near the start. It takes runners through the city and along the coastal roads, offering scenic views

When is Brighton marathon 2026?

The Brighton Marathon 2026 will take place on Sunday, April 5, 2026.

How many people run Brighton marathon?

The Brighton Marathon has approximately 11,000 places available for runners.