Course Map
About this Race
The Cork City Marathon is a friendly course through Ireland's southern capital, winding through the city and along the banks of the River Lee on largely flat, fast terrain. The level profile keeps it accessible while still rewarding a well-paced effort. Held in June over the bank holiday, it offers mild conditions and warm, welcoming Cork crowds. The city tour and relaxed atmosphere define the day. It suits runners who want an accessible, well-supported Irish city race with a flat-leaning, fast profile.
Course Insight
Cork is a June city marathon over rolling terrain, crossing the bridges of the Lee through the southern capital in conditions that can turn warm. Pace the rises by effort and manage hydration on a mild day. The river-threaded city is atmospheric. The undulation never quite lets you settle. Run the rollers with restraint and the course stays manageable to the line.
Difficulty Breakdown
Mostly due to tough late hills.
Course Details
- Course type
- Loop
- Elevation gain
- 186m
- Elevation loss
- 170m
- Highest point
- 34m
- Lowest point
- 5m
- Net elevation
- +16m
- Start
- Starts and finishes on Grand Parade, near the City Library.
- Cutoff time
- 6h 0m
Race History
The Cork City Marathon was first held in 2007 as a friendly course through Ireland's southern capital, winding along the banks of the River Lee on gently rolling terrain. Its welcoming atmosphere and warm Cork crowds defined its character. From its founding it grew into one of Ireland's established marathons. Held in June, it draws an accessible, well-supported field.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- Cork (ORK), Dublin (DUB) & Shannon (SNN)
- Best area to stay
- The city centre for proximity to the route and full hotels, the Victorian Quarter for characterful stays, and Douglas or Blackrock for quieter options nearby.
- Getting to the start
- The start is in the city centre; walk from central hotels, as it's a compact central course.