If an ultra feels like a bridge too far, ReesLeisure has the ideal choice of distances that include two bridges to cross – the hugely impressive 795m long and 28m high Itchen Bridge that is traversed in both directions and the 148m long Northam Bridge – the first major prestressed concrete road bridge to be built in the UK in 1954 – on the site of the original wooden bridge that was opened in 1799.

ABP Southampton Marathon on Sunday 7 April 2024 is held on a two-lap course that offers a spectacular route, including green parks, shoreline, and riverside vistas, beginning and ending at the centrally located Southampton Guildhall Square. The inspiring route runs past ABP Southampton Docks, over the famous Itchen Bridge with glorious views across Southampton Waters of The Solent and in good visibility to the New Forest.

Following a shoreline section at Weston Shore, the route continues inside the legendary St Mary’s Football Stadium, home to Southampton Football Club. Passing over Northam Bridge with more Itchen River views, you'll run through the beautiful Riverside Park before tackling Southampton Common (home to the UK’s second largest parkrun) before starting lap two.

ABP Southampton Half Marathon finishes after one lap; ABP Southampton 10K has a shorter loop that still includes the double crossing of Itchen Bridge, while the ABP Southampton 5K stays closer to the maritime city centre alongside the Mile Fun Run – that the website states is open to runners aged 2 to 102 years!

There were more than 5,000 entrants and 4,379 finishers across all events last year and the ABP Southampton Marathon title holders are Nick Curtis (Aldershot, Farnham & District AC, 2:41:10) and Hannah Curtis (Denmead Striders, 3:24:25) – both in personal best times.

Entries are now open from £5 each for a pair in the Fun Run to £48/£50 for the full marathon.

For full race information and a link to the entries portal visit ABP Southampton Marathon here.

Previous event results and race reports at the runABC South race listing here.

Image courtesy ReesLeisure/ABP Southampton Marathon