Portsmouth Coastal Waterside Marathon 2025

• Scenic coastal route with stunning sea views
• Flat course ideal for personal bests
• Strong community support along the route
• Convenient start and finish at the same location
• Water stations and medical support available

The Portsmouth Coastal Waterside Marathon is a festive and challenging race that takes place along the scenic Southsea seafront and around Langstone Harbour. The marathon route is multi-terrain, offering stunning views of the sea at every turn. The race starts and finishes along Southsea seafront and takes runners around the entirety of Langstone Harbour, providing a mix of urban and natural coastal landscapes. Known for its festive atmosphere and scenic coastal paths, the marathon rewards participants with fantastic goodies and a chunky medal upon completion. Organized by Believe and Achieve Events Limited, this event ensures a well-organized and enjoyable experience for marathoners. Besides the full marathon, there are options like the Festive Half Marathon and Ultra distances, accommodating runners of various levels. Due to coastal sea defense works, the final route is confirmed by 30 November each year, so checking for updates is recommended. With its scenic coastal route and festive atmosphere, the Portsmouth Coastal Waterside Marathon promises a memorable running experience.

Expect temperatures between 35-46°F (2-8°C) with moderate winds and potential rain showers during the Portsmouth Coastal Waterside Marathon in late December. While snowfall is rare, runners should be prepared for limited daylight and possible foggy mornings.

The Portsmouth Coastal Waterside Marathon offers runners a festive and scenic journey along the picturesque Southsea Seafront and around Langstone Harbour. This flat, multi-terrain course combines road and coastal paths, providing a dynamic running experience with minimal elevation changes—just 108 meters over the entire marathon distance. As you run, you'll be treated to stunning sea views and pass key landmarks like the Tudor Sailing Club and Applegreen garage.

The course is renowned for its lively atmosphere, featuring aid stations stocked with treats like jelly beans, Jaffa cakes, and savory snacks. Runners can also enjoy on-site massage and taping services to enhance their race day experience. However, be ready for potential last-minute route adjustments due to ongoing coastal defense works, with the final course confirmed each year by November 30.

Starting near Clarence Esplanade, the marathon kicks off at 8:15 AM, followed by the half marathon at 9:00 AM. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a novice, this race promises a memorable and accessible challenge amidst the vibrant coastal setting.

Visiting Portsmouth for the Coastal Waterside Marathon presents a fantastic opportunity to explore this historic maritime city. Beyond the race, Portsmouth offers a rich tapestry of cultural and historical attractions. Start with the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, where you can immerse yourself in naval history by visiting iconic ships like HMS Victory and HMS Warrior 1860, and exploring the Mary Rose Museum. For a more leisurely day, enjoy a picnic at Southsea Common or take a refreshing seafront cycle ride from the Historic Dockyard to Eastney.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene trails at Hilsea Lines or the wildlife-rich Farlington Marshes. History buffs will find the Millennium Trail intriguing, offering insights into the city’s harbor defenses. For a touch of culture, the Portsmouth City Museum and the D-Day Museum provide fascinating glimpses into local history and the broader narratives of WWII.

Portsmouth's compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot. With a diverse range of accommodations and dining options, from local pubs to international cuisines, the city caters to all tastes and budgets. Whether you're here for the marathon or the many attractions, Portsmouth promises a rewarding visit with its blend of history, culture, and scenic coastal views.