Photo K. Mitch Hodge / Unsplash
- Marathon
- Half
Endurancelife Dorset
Endurancelife Dorset
Given World Heritage status in 2001, The Jurassic Coast Path through Dorset is quite simply unique.
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2026 edition
Next up
Countdown
33
days to 5 Dec 2026
- Distance
- Marathon
- Course
- —
- Climb
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- Entry
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About
The race
Given World Heritage status in 2001, The Jurassic Coast Path through Dorset is quite simply unique. This is the only location on the planet where in a few short hours of trail running you will travel through a few million years of earth time – all with the ocean as a glorious backdrop. Oh yes, and those years are represented in hills.. The Dorset Marathon follows a rugged, but scenic and diverse path along the Dorset coast. Known as the Jurassic coast the area officially boasts more geological variety than any other place on Earth. The epic hills and cliffs are characteristic of this stage of the Coastal Trail Series and incorporate the highest point of the British south coast. The Dorset Coastal Marathon is on of 10 marathons organised by Endurancelife. To preserve the coastal paths application to the race is restricted to only 600 runners. Applicants should apply early to avoid disappointment. Come and join this tough trail runner’s paradise.
Before you go
Pro tips
Racing it
- 01
Cold Coastal Layers
Typical race-day temperature is 7.8°C, so plan layers for a cold December trail run. The Jurassic Coast path is exposed to the ocean.
From the temperature, description
- 02
Pace the Hills
The course is rugged with hills and cliffs and includes the highest point of the British south coast. Start conservatively and save energy for the climbs.
From the description
- 03
Watch Your Footing
This is a tough trail runner's paradise on the Jurassic Coast Path, with diverse terrain. Run by effort and keep your eyes on the uneven ground.
From the description
- 04
Apply Early
Entry is restricted to only 600 runners, so apply early to secure a place.
From the entry, description
- 05
Distance Choice
Both a marathon and half marathon are offered on this rugged coast. Pick the distance that matches your trail experience.
From the distances
In Swanage
Getting Around
Swanage is small and walkable, so on race day walking between the seafront and town is usually easier than driving. Expect congestion near race areas.
Spectator Spots
Spectators can watch along Swanage Beach and the seafront, with coastal viewpoints near Durlston Country Park looking over the path.
Recovery and Character
Afterward, a gentle stroll along Swanage Bay or to Durlston Country Park fits the town's relaxed seaside character.
Written by AI from the course data and the race's description; city tips are general knowledge. Check race-day details with the organizer.
Every year
Editions
Ballot, charity and tour places
Getting in
Ballot
Registration for the individual entry ballot opens on 2025-09-15 and closes on 2025-09-25.
Charity place
Charity Entry Scheme: sign up and pay in the normal way, raise a minimum of £400 for a registered charity of your choice, then the entry fee is refunded after the event.
Tour operator package
Travel packages with guaranteed entry through the official tour operators are available. The package price starts from 450 EUR.
Tour operators