Blackpool Festival of Running

This marathon takes place in Blackpool, a classic English seaside town on the northwest coast. The race unfolds against the backdrop of the coastal landscape, with the town's famous promenade and seafront providing a distinctive atmosphere. Blackpool's character as a traditional holiday destination gives the event a relaxed, community-focused feel, drawing runners and spectators alike to celebrate together along the shore. The course is a trail-based route that stays mercifully flat to gently rolling throughout its 42.2 kilometre length. With only 114 metres of elevation gain spread across the entire distance and the course never climbing higher than 26 metres above sea level, runners won't face any significant climbs. This is a course designed to reward steady effort and consistent pacing rather than test your hill fitness. The trail surface provides a welcome change from pavement, though runners should be prepared for whatever terrain conditions the British coast can throw at them in late April.