Southampton Running Festival

Bishop's Waltham, United Kingdom • 16 Aug 2026

Southampton Running Festival August 2026

The Southampton Running Festival takes place on Sunday 16 August 2026 in Southampton Common, beginning and ending on The Avenue. The course runs through the common’s woodland, grassland, ponds, wetlands, lakes and parkland. Southampton Common is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Race distances available:

  • Half Marathon
  • 10K
  • 5K
  • RunThrough Foundation Place (no fundraising required)
  • Junior Race

The routes use multiple laps: the half marathon comprises six laps plus an out-and-back section, the 10K uses three laps and the 5K consists of two smaller laps. Each kilometre on the course is marked with distance flags and marshals are positioned around the route to guide participants.

An event village is provided at the finish with food and drink options and partner giveaways. An event t-shirt is available as an add-on at checkout through the organiser’s kit partner, offered at a discounted price. The organiser reports that sustainability has become a priority in event planning and notes ongoing work in this area.

Practical details such as exact start protocols, logistics and transport information are provided separately by the organiser. The Avenue, Southampton SO15 7NN is listed as the event location. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

Half Marathon
Half Marathon
10 km
10k
5 km
Junior Race
Runthrough Foundation Place (no Fundraising Required)
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Take on scenic South Downs trails at Queen Elizabeth Country Park with routes for every level. Choose 21.6 km, 15.2 km or 7.9 km trail runs or join canicross and hikes, organised by UK Running Events.

Starburster is a twilight 5 or 10 mile run through Hurn Forest on 31 January, with out and back laps on firm forest trails beneath sunset skies. Head torches are required and 20% of entry fees support Forestry England for trail care.

Guided 10 km trail run around the Devil's Punchbowl in Hindhead, with summer sunset runs and headtorch group night runs in darker months. Social pace, great views and the chance to try trail gear.

The Pilgrim Challenge will take place in Farnham from Saturday 7 February 2026 to Sunday 8 February 2026. You can run 66 miles.