The Purbeck Marathon
Sunday, 20 September 2026
09:00 to 17:00
Type: Sport and Exercise, Walks
Booking Required: Yes
The Purbeck Marathon to return this September after five-year hiatus
Arguably the most beautiful marathon in England confirmed for Sunday 20 September 2026, with community and charity at its heart
Dorset, UK – Sunday 20 September 2026, 09:00 – After a five-year break, the much-loved Purbeck Marathon will return to the Dorset calendar, inviting runners back to one of the most scenic and challenging race routes in the country.
First staged in 2012, the Purbeck Marathon has built a reputation for combining dramatic coastal views, historic landmarks and a strong community spirit. The 2026 event will feature two routes:
• Full Marathon – 1,032m elevation gain
• 16-Mile Race – 627m elevation gain
Both routes take runners past the iconic ruins of Corfe Castle, along the spectacular Jurassic Coast and the South West Coast Path, with the full marathon going through the abandoned village of Tyneham. The race finishes on the seafront in Swanage, where runners can celebrate with a well-earned sea dip and locally made ice cream.
Community at the Core
Organised entirely by volunteers and supported by the local council, entry costs just £45 for early birds. For every volunteer who supports the event, a donation is made to a local community organisation or charity. All event profits will be donated to Dorset-based causes Dementia Friendly Purbeck, Planet Purbeck and St Edward's Church.
Race Director Ollie Allcock, whose family has lived in Swanage and Corfe Castle since 1911, has taken on organising the event after running it himself three times. “Join us for an unforgettable journey through breathtaking landscapes, where every step brings you closer to the heart of the community and the spirit of adventure. Purbeck’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers spectacular views at every turn — from the dramatic Jurassic Coast to rolling countryside, the haunting remains of Tyneham and the proud ruins of Corfe Castle. With vibrant community support along the route, it’s England at its very best. I encourage everyone to register now.”
Entries are now open: www.thepurbeckmarathon.co.uk
________________________________________
Key Dates
• First Purbeck Marathon – 16 September 2012
• Most Recent Event – 19 September 2021
• Global Running Day – 3 June 2026
• 200 Days to Go – 4 March 2026
• 100 Days to Go – 12 June 2026
• Race Day – 20 September 2026
For the latest updates, follow and share on Instagram: @purbeckmarathon
Contact
Peveril Point
Swanage
RG25 3BL
07886118277
Location Map:
Other Events
09:00 to 17:00
Peveril Point, Swanage
Sport and Exercise, Walks events
The Purbeck Marathon to return this September after five-year hiatus Arguably the most beautiful marathon in England confirmed ...
10:00 to 12:00
All-Terrain Vehicle Nature Tour
Knoll Beach, Ferry Road, Studland
Education events
Enjoy the unique experience of a ranger guided nature tour around our beach and dunes in one of our all terrain vehicles ...
10:00 to 16:30
The Square, Corfe Castle
History and Heritage events
An opportunity to explore the castle ruins, go on a storytelling tour, and discover more about the fascinating history of ...
17:00 to 20:00
Harmans Cross Village Hall, Haycrafts Lane, Harmans Cross
Community events
Church Service at Harmans Cross Village Hall. See the website for more details.Venue: Harmans Cross Village HallWeb: www.harmanscrosshall.co.uk ...
17:00 to 20:00
Harmans Cross Village Hall, Haycrafts Lane, Harmans Cross
Community events
Church Service at Harmans Cross Village Hall. See the website for more details.Venue: Harmans Cross Village HallWeb: www.harmanscrosshall.co.uk ...
Events Disclaimer
All events listed on Virtual Swanage have either been imported, submitted or added by third parties. Virtual Swanage does not validate all the event information submitted to us or verify that the information has not changed or removed after the event has been added to this website.
Please check with the event organiser before traveling to any event to check for updates or changes to the events dates, times or costs involved.
Promote your Event
Are you planning an event in the area? You can advertise your event to thousands of people for FREE.