New Forest Marathon 2025

• Scenic multi-terrain routes through New Forest National Park with forest tracks and iconic ponies.
• Start and finish at New Park Showground, Brockenhurst; medals and finisher T-shirts for all.
• Virtual event option available; transfer before late August.
• Family-friendly atmosphere with entertainment and on-site amenities.
• Training guides and prizes offered for all race categories.

The New Forest Marathon is a scenic race situated within the captivating landscapes of New Forest National Park, offering runners an extraordinary blend of natural beauty and endurance challenges. The event is renowned for its relatively flat course, featuring an elevation gain of just 46 meters, allowing participants to focus on the surrounding beauty rather than daunting inclines. It is celebrated as one of the UK's most stunning running events, providing a unique opportunity to experience the serene yet wild ambiance of the forest. The marathon is not just a race; it's a full weekend celebration featuring a variety of events including half marathons, 10K, 5K races, and junior runs, making it a holistic family-friendly occasion. Beyond the race, the event boasts a strong charitable component, having raised over £1.33 million for local causes over the past 38 years through the New Forest Marathon Community Fund. Participants can enjoy the vibrant event atmosphere enriched by live music and camping options, creating a festive ambiance for both runners and spectators. Additionally, the weekend includes the UK Trail Running Festival with various distances and unique 'run with your dog' opportunities, all set in the picturesque setting of St Giles House near Ringwood. The New Forest Marathon not only offers a running challenge but also invites runners to contribute to local charitable endeavors while soaking in one of Britain's most picturesque national parks.

Expect temperatures ranging from 50-67°F (10-19°C) during the New Forest Marathon in mid-September. The morning typically starts with light cloud cover and moderate winds, with a chance of occasional rain showers later in the day. Overall, this period is relatively dry, offering a comfortable climate for runners.

The New Forest Marathon offers a captivating journey through the heart of the New Forest National Park, presenting runners with a multi-terrain adventure. The course weaves through compact gravel paths, woodland trails, farm tracks, grassy stretches, and tarmac, providing a dynamic and engaging run.

Starting and finishing at the historic St Giles House in Wimborne, Dorset, the race takes you through a 6,000-acre estate. Along the way, you'll encounter forest enclosures, open roads, and breathtaking vistas, with the iconic New Forest ponies making occasional appearances.

The route is predominantly flat, following the half marathon's course in a two-lap format, yet its undulating nature and varied surfaces pose a unique challenge, testing your adaptability and endurance. The blend of ancient woodland and heathland creates a truly authentic New Forest experience, appealing to runners of all ages and abilities.

The New Forest Marathon is a scenic and rewarding challenge, promising a memorable race through one of England's most beautiful landscapes.

Nestled in the heart of the New Forest, Brockenhurst, Hampshire, offers a delightful escape for marathon travelers seeking both athletic challenges and serene natural beauty. Beyond the race, this charming village invites exploration with its quaint high street, where shops, tearooms, and traditional pubs await. Keep an eye out for the iconic free-roaming ponies, donkeys, and cows that add a unique touch to the landscape.

For history enthusiasts, St. Nicholas’ Church provides a serene glimpse into the past with its 11th-century architecture and stunning stained-glass windows. A short drive brings you to the Beaulieu National Motor Museum, home to an impressive collection of over 250 vehicles, perfect for a leisurely afternoon of discovery.

If you're keen on outdoor adventures, consider cycling the picturesque Brockenhurst to Rhinefield route or strolling along the South Taste Trail, which offers a delightful mix of local pubs and tea rooms. For a truly unique perspective, explore the New Forest on horseback with local stables. And don’t miss the chance to savor local flavors at pubs like The Snakecatcher or The Pig, known for its fresh, garden-to-table cuisine. With so much to see and do, Brockenhurst promises a rich and rewarding experience beyond the marathon.