AJ Bell Great South Run 2026 Entry, Date & Race Info

The Great South Run is one of the UK’s best-known 10-mile road races, held annually in Portsmouth on England’s south coast. Part of the long-running Great Run series, the event attracts a large and varied field ranging from elite athletes and experienced club runners to first-time runners taking on the 10-mile distance.

The course is known for its flat and fast profile, making it popular with runners aiming for personal best performances as well as those progressing from shorter races such as the 10K. The route takes participants through Portsmouth’s historic waterfront areas, passing landmarks including the Historic Dockyard, Spinnaker Tower, and stretches of the Southsea seafront. Large crowds and live entertainment along the route contribute to the event’s reputation for atmosphere and spectator support.

The Great South Run has built a strong reputation within the UK running calendar due to its combination of coastal scenery, accessible course profile, and major-event organisation. The race is often used by runners as an autumn target race and regularly attracts participants travelling from across the UK.

In addition to the main 10-mile race, the wider event weekend often includes junior and family running events, helping create a festival-style atmosphere around Portsmouth across the race weekend.