Course Map
About this Race
The Brighton Marathon is one of England's biggest spring races, a lively seaside event on the south coast that finishes along the iconic Brighton seafront near the pier and the Royal Pavilion. The course is fairly flat with a few undulations and an exposed coastal stretch toward the end that can sap tired legs into a headwind. Held in April, it draws large, enthusiastic crowds and a festive atmosphere second only to London among English spring marathons. The seafront finish is a highlight, though the late exposed miles demand a measured effort. It suits runners who want a big, well-supported coastal race with a fast-leaning but honest profile.
Course Insight
Brighton is a seaside spring marathon, mostly flat but defined by an exposed late stretch out along the coast toward the industrial fringe, a bleak, often windy section that arrives just as the legs tire. Save something for that lonely seafront grind rather than spending it on the lively early miles through town. April weather can swing from mild to blustery off the Channel. The crowd energy in the centre can pull you out too fast. Pace for the back-half exposure and the finish along the front becomes a relief rather than a reckoning.
Difficulty Breakdown
A balanced marathon with no single defining challenge.
Course Details
- Course type
- Out-And-Back
- Elevation gain
- 158m
- Elevation loss
- 178m
- Highest point
- 52m
- Lowest point
- 5m
- Net elevation
- +20m
- Start
- Preston Park, Brighton
- Cutoff time
- 6h 40m
Course Records
- Men's
- 2:09:25 — William Chebor (Kenya), 2014
- Women's
- 2:28:50 — Eunice Kales (Kenya), 2013
Race History
The Brighton Marathon was first held in 2010 and quickly grew into one of England's biggest spring marathons, finishing along the iconic seafront of the south-coast city. Its lively, well-supported course made it a popular alternative to London among English spring races. From its inaugural running it built a large, festive following. Held each April, it draws tens of thousands of runners to the famous Brighton seafront, with an exposed coastal finish that tests tired legs.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- Gatwick (LGW), Heathrow (LHR)
- Best area to stay
- The seafront for hotels near the start/finish with sea views, the Lanes for boutique stays in the buzzing centre, and Hove for quieter, value guesthouses a short walk away.
- Getting to the start
- The start is at Preston Park; take a train to Preston Park or walk/bus from the centre, with the finish on the seafront.