Take on one of the South Coast’s most scenic running events when the Bournemouth Bay Run returns in 2027. Starting near Pier Approach, the annual event is expected to offer a Half Marathon, 10K, 5K and 1K Kids Fun Run along Bournemouth’s famous seafront. The official 2027 date, entry fees and race schedule have not yet been announced. Find the latest event information and what runners can expect from the next Bournemouth Bay Run.
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Sunday 21st March 2027
Events Guide | What’s On Festivals & Events in Dorset UK
One of Bournemouth's most popular running events returns on Sunday 21 March 2027, welcoming runners, joggers and families to the town's beautiful coastline for a day of fitness, fundraising and community spirit.
Set against Bournemouth's famous seven-mile stretch of golden sand, the Vitality Bournemouth Bay Run offers a choice of distances for people with different abilities and running goals.
Whether you're preparing for your first organised 5K, hoping to achieve a personal best over 10K or taking on the challenge of a Half Marathon, there's an event to suit a wide range of participants.
Families can also get involved, with dedicated junior races allowing younger runners to experience the excitement of a major seafront running event.
Starting around Bournemouth Pier Approach, the races combine the atmosphere of an organised sporting event with memorable coastal views across Poole Bay.
The event is organised by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council, with Vitality continuing as the title sponsor and official wellness partner.
Entries for 2027 are now open, with confirmed race times and prices published by the organisers.
The Half Marathon is the longest distance at the Bournemouth Bay Run, offering a 13.1-mile challenge for runners looking to test their endurance.
Starting at Pier Approach at 10am, the chip-timed event takes participants along Bournemouth's scenic coastline.
The race attracts experienced runners aiming for a competitive finish time, alongside participants working towards their first Half Marathon.
Start time: 10am
Wheelchair start: 9:58am
Minimum age: 17 years
Entry fee: £32 early-bird/UKA affiliated or £34 standard, plus booking fees
Timing: Chip-timed
The race is also included in the Dorset Road Race League calendar.
View Half Marathon details and enter
The Bournemouth Bay Run 10K is a popular choice for runners looking for a rewarding coastal challenge, whether they're aiming for a personal best or simply enjoying the atmosphere.
The race starts west of Bournemouth Pier at 9:15am, with a scenic route along the seafront.
At 6.2 miles, the distance offers a manageable step up from a 5K while still providing a substantial challenge.
Start time: 9:15am
Wheelchair start: 9:10am
Minimum age: 15 years
Entry fee: £26 early-bird/UKA affiliated or £28 standard, plus booking fees
Timing: Chip-timed
The 5K is a fantastic introduction to organised running, making it an appealing option for beginners, casual runners and anyone building their fitness.
Starting west of Bournemouth Pier at 12:15pm, the event takes place along Bournemouth's seafront.
The shorter distance means participants can enjoy the atmosphere of race day without committing to a longer event.
It's also a great opportunity to set a new fitness goal or take part alongside friends and family.
Start time: 12:15pm
Minimum age: 11 years
Entry fee: £14, plus booking fees
Timing: Chip-timed
The 2.5K Junior Fun Run is part of the confirmed 2027 programme, giving younger runners a chance to enjoy a slightly longer distance.
Starting from Pier Approach at 2pm, the event is recommended for children aged nine and over.
It's an exciting opportunity for young participants who are developing their confidence with running or looking for a new sporting challenge.
The event is designed to encourage participation and enjoyment in the welcoming atmosphere of Bournemouth Bay Run.
Start time: 2pm
Recommended age: Nine years and over
Entry fee: £12, plus booking fees
Start location: Pier Approach
Find out more about the 2.5K Junior Fun Run
The 1K Kids Fun Run gives the youngest participants an opportunity to experience the excitement of race day, with a short route near Bournemouth Pier.
Starting at 1:30pm, this family-friendly event has no minimum age requirement.
It's an enjoyable way to introduce children to running and encourage them to get active in a supportive environment.
Parents should check the organiser's latest participation guidance before entering younger children.
Start time: 1:30pm
Minimum age: None
Entry fee: £10, plus booking fees
Start location: Pier Approach
The Bournemouth Bay Run race village is located in Bournemouth's Lower Gardens, close to the seafront and main race starting areas.
The area provides a central location for participants to prepare for their event, meet friends and access race-day information.
Facilities include:
Race information and assistance
Bag storage for registered runners
Public toilet facilities nearby
Warm-up activities before each race
Information about race numbers and entry arrangements
The organisers recommend arriving with plenty of time before the scheduled start.
Race numbers will be posted to participants ahead of the event.
Runners who have not received their number, or who register close to race day, can visit the information tent at the race village.
Participants should check their confirmation email and official race instructions for the latest collection arrangements.
The Vitality Bournemouth Bay Run also provides an opportunity to raise money for local charities, combining personal fitness goals with support for worthwhile causes.
The organisers are highlighting charity partners including:
Forest Holme Hospice supports people affected by life-limiting illness and bereavement, providing specialist care and support within the local community.
The HealthBus Trust delivers healthcare services to people experiencing homelessness in Bournemouth and the surrounding area.
Its TEAM44 campaign encourages runners and supporters to help raise awareness of unmet mental health needs among people experiencing homelessness.
Participants can choose to support one of the event's charity partners or use the challenge to raise money for a cause that matters to them.
Visit the official Bay Run website for charity information
The Bournemouth Bay Run takes place around Pier Approach and the Lower Gardens, close to Bournemouth town centre.
Bournemouth railway station is approximately a 25–30-minute walk from Pier Approach.
Local bus services also connect the town centre with surrounding areas.
With large numbers of runners and spectators attending, public transport may be a convenient option.
Several public car parks are available near Bournemouth town centre and seafront, including the BIC and town-centre car parks.
Parking can become busy during major events, so visitors should allow extra time.
Temporary road closures or traffic restrictions may be introduced along race routes.
The organisers will publish relevant travel and route information ahead of the event.
The Half Marathon, 10K and 5K races take place along Bournemouth's coastline, offering views across the bay.
Individual route maps and final race instructions should be checked through the official event website.
The Junior 2.5K route is still awaiting publication.
Participants should prepare for the conditions on the day and bring suitable running equipment.
Useful items include:
Comfortable running shoes
Weather-appropriate running clothing
Race number and safety pins if required
Water for before and after the race
Warm clothing for after finishing
Any essential personal medication
The organisers do not allow standard earphones during the races. Bone-conduction headphones may be permitted provided the ears remain unobstructed.
The organisers allow pushchairs or buggies in the 5K, 2.5K and 1K events, although participants may be asked to start towards the back of the field.
Buggies are not permitted in the licensed 10K or Half Marathon races.
Families should check the event rules before registering.
The Vitality Bournemouth Bay Run is confirmed for Sunday 21 March 2027, with registration now open across five race distances.
Participants can choose from the Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, 2.5K Junior Fun Run and 1K Kids Fun Run.
The organisers have published the race start times, entry fees and age requirements, making it possible to plan ahead and secure a place.
Early-bird entry prices are available on selected distances until 26 October 2026.
Anyone interested in taking part is encouraged to visit the official website for the latest registration information, race guidance and announcements.
Official website: Vitality Bournemouth Bay Run
Registration: Enter the 2027 races
Race FAQs: View official event information
Organiser contact: bay.run@bcpcouncil.gov.uk
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