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The AJ Bell Great South Run is the world’s premier 10-mile road race, featuring a flat and fast course through Portsmouth’s historic dockyard and along the scenic Southsea seafront.
Course Highlights
The Great South Run is renowned for its fast, flat, and incredibly scenic course that showcases the very best of Portsmouth’s maritime heritage. Runners are granted the unique privilege of racing through the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, passing within touching distance of legendary vessels like HMS Victory and the Mary Rose Museum. The route also features iconic landmarks such as the Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth Cathedral, and Southsea Castle, which was originally constructed by Henry VIII. As you hit the home stretch, the final two miles along the Southsea seafront offer breathtaking panoramic views across the Solent toward the Isle of Wight, often accompanied by the sight of Royal Navy ships and international ferries.
Race Details
The next edition of the AJ Bell Great South Run is scheduled for Sunday, October 18, 2026. As the world’s leading 10-mile running event, it attracts over 20,000 participants annually to the south coast of England. The race starts and finishes on the northern end of Avenue De Caen in Southsea, Portsmouth (Postcode: PO5 3AE). The event village opens at 07:00, with the first wave of runners (Orange Wave) scheduled to start at 10:35, followed by the Green and Pink waves. The course is famously flat, making it a prime destination for runners looking to set a personal best. Participants must be at least 16 years old for the 10-mile distance. The weekend also includes a 5K race and Junior/Mini events on the Saturday, making it a true festival of running.
Why Runners Love It
Runners return to Portsmouth year after year for the unbeatable atmosphere and the “10-mile street party” vibe. The local support is legendary; thousands of spectators line the streets, offering cheers, high fives, and sweets to keep motivation high. The race has a deep-rooted history, celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2025, and has become a massive platform for fundraising, with over £1 million raised by single groups in past editions. Beyond the race, the Après Run zone provides a perfect space to celebrate with live music, food, and drinks. Whether it’s the salty sea air, the historic sights, or the incredible community spirit, the Great South Run offers an emotional and exhilarating experience that few other races can match.
Register for the Great South Run
At a Glance
- Location: Portsmouth, England — United Kingdom
- Next Date: 2026-10-18
- Distances: 10 miles, 5K
- Start Time: 10:35
Register & Learn More
Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: https://www.greatrun.org/events/great-south-run/
Portsmouth, England PO5 3AE United Kingdom
The AJ Bell Great South Run is the world’s premier 10-mile road race, featuring a flat and fast course through Portsmouth’s historic dockyard and along the scenic Southsea seafront.
Course Highlights
The Great South Run is renowned for its fast, flat, and incredibly scenic course that showcases the very best of Portsmouth’s maritime heritage. Runners are granted the unique privilege of racing through the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, passing within touching distance of legendary vessels like HMS Victory and the Mary Rose Museum. The route also features iconic landmarks such as the Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth Cathedral, and Southsea Castle, which was originally constructed by Henry VIII. As you hit the home stretch, the final two miles along the Southsea seafront offer breathtaking panoramic views across the Solent toward the Isle of Wight, often accompanied by the sight of Royal Navy ships and international ferries.
Race Details
The next edition of the AJ Bell Great South Run is scheduled for Sunday, October 18, 2026. As the world’s leading 10-mile running event, it attracts over 20,000 participants annually to the south coast of England. The race starts and finishes on the northern end of Avenue De Caen in Southsea, Portsmouth (Postcode: PO5 3AE). The event village opens at 07:00, with the first wave of runners (Orange Wave) scheduled to start at 10:35, followed by the Green and Pink waves. The course is famously flat, making it a prime destination for runners looking to set a personal best. Participants must be at least 16 years old for the 10-mile distance. The weekend also includes a 5K race and Junior/Mini events on the Saturday, making it a true festival of running.
Why Runners Love It
Runners return to Portsmouth year after year for the unbeatable atmosphere and the “10-mile street party” vibe. The local support is legendary; thousands of spectators line the streets, offering cheers, high fives, and sweets to keep motivation high. The race has a deep-rooted history, celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2025, and has become a massive platform for fundraising, with over £1 million raised by single groups in past editions. Beyond the race, the Après Run zone provides a perfect space to celebrate with live music, food, and drinks. Whether it’s the salty sea air, the historic sights, or the incredible community spirit, the Great South Run offers an emotional and exhilarating experience that few other races can match.
Register for the Great South Run
At a Glance
- Location: Portsmouth, England — United Kingdom
- Next Date: 2026-10-18
- Distances: 10 miles, 5K
- Start Time: 10:35
Register & Learn More
Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: https://www.greatrun.org/events/great-south-run/