Everything You Need to Know Ahead of Bath Half Marathon
About 15, 000 runners are due to take part in the Bath Half Marathon on Sunday, with the first competitors expected to cross the start line at 5: 30 am ET. Organisers warn that parking and traffic will be disrupted and advise competitors to arrive in Bath two hours before their start time to drop off bags, warm up and avoid crowds.
Course, Start Times and Road Closures for Bath Half Marathon
The event follows a two‑lap route through the city’s Regency landmarks and town centre. The course runs along Marlborough Lane, Upper Bristol Road, Newbridge Road and Lower Bristol Road, and also takes in Corn Street and Riverside Parade, with the finish on Royal Avenue near the Royal Crescent.
There will be extensive road closures across the city, including Royal Victoria Park, Royal Avenue, most of the city centre and both Upper and Lower Bristol Road. Restrictions on loading and waiting are also in place on many of the same roads in the days leading up to the event. Drivers are encouraged to check local council notices for the latest closure information.
The event village and the baggage tent are located in Royal Victoria Park close to the start line. Group warm‑ups will be held before each wave of runners. Competitors have four hours to complete the 13. 1‑mile course.
Veteran Runner Says Consistency Keeps Him Going
A 77‑year‑old runner who has been running for more than four decades will be among the field this Sunday. He has completed all but two editions of the Bath Half Marathon since the 1980s and describes the event’s atmosphere as comparable to that of the London Marathon. He has run the London race 14 times and has taken part in a local half marathon around 40 times.
He credits his long‑term fitness to consistency and a light supplement routine. He runs about 20–30 miles a week, began running after the birth of his second son and first joined a running club where he lived for many years. He says he has been almost injury free, does sit ups, press ups and squats every morning, and takes cod liver oil and glucosamine but no medication.
Now in his late 70s he says he no longer chases personal bests but still looks forward to the Bath Half Marathon because of its organisation, atmosphere and crowd support. The race, first held in 1982, draws thousands of dedicated runners each year to tackle the 13. 1‑mile distance. Results from the event will be published on Sunday.
Competitors and spectators should plan for delays, arrive early, and use Royal Victoria Park as the main event hub for baggage and pre‑race activities.
