Course Map
About this Race
The Bath Two Tunnels Marathon is a distinctive course in Somerset, England, run largely on a former railway path that passes through atmospheric old tunnels, including Britain's longest cycling tunnel, beneath the hills around the elegant city of Bath. The flat, traffic-free railway grade makes it reasonably fast, with the eerie, lamp-lit underground sections setting it apart. Held in cool conditions, it offers pleasant Somerset scenery above ground. The novel tunnels are the highlight. It suits runners who want an unusual, scenic, flat-leaning course and the curiosity of running through historic tunnels.
Course Insight
Bath's Two Tunnels course is a genuine novelty, running through long former-railway tunnels that plunge you into cool darkness on the gentle gradients of an old rail line. Pace for the disorienting dark stretches and the steady, flat-to-gentle grade rather than dramatic terrain. The tunnels are atmospheric and unique. Footing is smooth on the converted line. Settle into a rhythm and the quirky course rewards a measured effort.
Difficulty Breakdown
Mostly due to significant climbing (430m).
Course Details
- Course type
- Out-And-Back
- Elevation gain
- 430m
- Elevation loss
- 428m
- Highest point
- 161m
- Lowest point
- 18m
- Net elevation
- +2m
- Cutoff time
- 6h 0m
Race History
The Bath Two Tunnels Marathon is a distinctive Somerset course run largely on a former railway path that passes through atmospheric old tunnels, including Britain's longest cycling tunnel, near the elegant city of Bath. Its flat, traffic-free grade and eerie underground sections set it apart. It built a niche following for its novelty. It remains an unusual, scenic flat-leaning race.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- Bristol (BRS), Heathrow (LHR)
- Best area to stay
- The city centre for atmospheric Georgian stays near the course, the Bear Flat area for proximity to the tunnels, and the outskirts for value options.
- Getting to the start
- The start is near the centre/Linear Park; walk from central hotels, as it's a compact course on the old railway line.