All the marathons in the West Country in 2026
Looking to run a full marathon in the South West next year?
While the region is better known for half marathons and trail ultras, there are still some excellent 42.2km events lined up – although note that they’re mostly trail runs that aren’t advisable for your first marathon!
From coast-hugging trails to rural loops through gorges and estuaries, these are the main marathons taking place in the South West in 2026.
Jurassic Coast Marathon – Dorset
🗓 Date: Saturday 16 May 2026
📍 Location: Weymouth, Dorset
🌍 Website: https://www.ultrachallenge.com/jurassic-coast-challenge/challenge-options/
The Jurassic Coast Marathon is part of the popular Ultra Challenge series and covers a dramatic stretch of the UNESCO-listed Dorset coastline.
Starting and finishing in Weymouth, the route follows the undulating South West Coast Path, passing through clifftop farmland and down towards Chesil Beach and beyond.
Expect serious climbs and technical trail sections—this is no flat city run.
There’s around 1,100 metres of elevation gain, and the terrain varies from gravel tracks to steep grass slopes.
It’s part of the Jurassic Coast Challenge, which is a 100 km ultra, but there’s the chance to do the Marathon Distance from Weymouth to Bridport – take a look at the website for more information.
Cheddar Gorge Marathon – Somerset
🗓 Date: Sunday 14 June 2026
📍 Location: Cheddar, Somerset
🌍 Website: https://www.relishrunningraces.com/cheddar-gorge-marathon.php
One of the most scenic inland marathons in the region, the Cheddar Gorge Marathon follows a tough double-loop course through the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The route includes ancient woodland, sweeping views from Black Down, and a punishing climb up the so-called “Hell Steps”—a series of steep stone steps hidden in the gorge.
This is a fully off-road course with rugged terrain underfoot and a total climb of more than 900 metres. It’s suitable for experienced trail runners or road marathoners looking to try something more adventurous. Numbers are capped and the event has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
There’s parking at the top of the gorge, and runners can collect race packs on the day. Relish Running Races is a small, independent organiser that runs a variety of events in Somerset and Bath, and this is their flagship marathon.
RUN Barnstaple Marathon – Devon
🗓 Date: Not yet announced (2025 edition to be held on 28th September 2025)
📍 Location: Barnstaple, North Devon
🌍 Website: https://devonconnect.org/activity/run-barnstaple-marathon-2025 (2025
If you’re looking for a flatter and more traditional road marathon, RUN Barnstaple is your best bet in the South West.
The course is traffic-free and loops along the Tarka Trail and around the River Taw estuary, taking in views of the North Devon countryside.
It’s a well organised, local event popular with club runners, with a separate half marathon taking place on the same day. The route is known for being fast and relatively flat, making it a solid option for PB-chasers.
Support along the course is low-key but enthusiastic, and there’s a finishers’ medal and T-shirt for all participants.
Check the official website for entry dates—places tend to fill up in advance, and numbers are limited.
Exmoor Marathon Stage – Devon
🗓 Date: Sunday 19 April 2026
📍 Location: Exmoor National Park
🌍 Website: https://www.climbsouthwest.com/events/devon-coast-coast
While not a standalone marathon, the Exmoor stage of the Devon Coast-to-Coast Ultra is open to runners wanting to complete just the final section of this multiday event.
The stage runs for a full marathon distance, from West Anstey across the moor to the coastal village of Lynmouth.
Expect open moorland, river crossings, ancient woodland and remote farm tracks. It’s a point-to-point trail route, with around 1,000 metres of climbing and views across Exmoor and out to sea.
Because it’s part of an ultra, you’ll be sharing the course with runners who’ve already completed up to 100 miles—but the marathon stage has its own entry and timing.
Bath & Bristol Railway Marathon – Somerset to Bristol
🗓 Sunday 12 October 2025 (2026 date TBC, likely similar)
📍 Start/Finish: Green Park Station, Bath (marathon is an out-and-back)
🌍 Website: Relish Running Races
This road marathon follows a former railway line converted into the first section of the National Cycle Network.
The fully tarmacked route leaves Bath’s Green Park Station and travels through peaceful countryside, passing historic stations at Bitton, Warmley and Mangotsfield, before reaching Eastville near Bristol, then looping back.
It’s one of the flattest marathon courses in the South West, with generous cut-offs and excellent support. You’ll pass Avon Valley Railway heritage trains, run through the 450m-long Staple Hill Tunnel, and enjoy regular feed stations.
Other distances on the day include a 10km, half marathon, 25km point-to-point, and 50km ultra.
The event has a relaxed, inclusive feel—ideal if you’re transitioning from half to full marathon distance or just want a scenic, low-stress race.
Most marathons in the South West lean towards trail and coast path running, often with challenging elevation. If you’re after a fast, flat race for a PB, head to Barnstaple or Bath & Bristol Railway. For a dramatic day out with huge views and steep climbs, Cheddar Gorge or the Jurassic Coast should be on your list.
