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Brighton Half Marathon 2026
Take on 13.1 miles. Help save lives.
Join Team Grassroots at the Brighton Half Marathon and run with purpose.
Every step you take helps raise vital funds for those who need it most, supporting our lifesaving suicide prevention work in communities across the UK.
Event Date: Sunday 1st March 2026
Location: Brighton Seafront
Fundraising Target: £300
Registration Fee: £0
[Sign up to run]
About the Brighton Half Marathon
The 2026 Brighton Half Marathon takes place on Sunday 1st March 2026.
This scenic route showcases the very best of Brighton, from the iconic Brighton Pier and Royal Pavilion to Hove’s vibrant beach huts and the Brighton i360.
With sea views along 95% of the course, it’s one of the most picturesque races in the UK. As one of the first major events in the running calendar, it’s also one of the most popular half marathons nationwide.
Why run for Grassroots Suicide Prevention?
Most suicides are preventable, with timely intervention. In the UK, 1 in 4 adults have had suicidal thoughts, and in 2023, over 7,000 lives were lost to suicide.
By joining Team Grassroots, you’re helping save more lives from suicide. Every mile you run and every pound you raise helps fight stigma, support those at risk, and connect people to lifesaving services. Our vision is a future where more lives are saved from suicide. Together, we can recognise those at risk, open up conversations, and reach the people who need help the most. Team Grassroots makes this possible through every runner and every donation.
Run with us. Help save lives.
For those who raise £500 or more, we’re offering a free accredited Real Talk training session, designed to help you spot the signs, use the right language, and have potentially lifesaving conversations.
Run for us
When you join Team Grassroots, you will benefit from:
- No joining fee to register
- Free branded vest, so you can proudly represent people affected by suicide whilst training
- Our Fundraising Hub, which includes a range of tips, inspirational ideas, and advice
- Press release templates
- Social media templates
- Regular check-ins, and progress updates
- Access to a strong online social community of Team Grassroots members
- Access to a free mental health and suicide prevention training session
Volunteer for us
Help us out on the day. When you volunteer for us, you will benefit from:
Being part of a dedicated team supporting a lifesaving cause
Opportunities to meet new people and build connections
Making a positive impact on your community
Developing valuable skills like empathy, resilience, communication, and teamwork
Gaining experience that employers value
Playing a vital role in event planning, promotion, setup, stewarding, and greeting
“I had a great day, it was so lovely to be part of a team. I’m so used to running alone, it really made a difference (and certainly made me dig deep when it got tough). Really lovely to come back to the tent afterwards and be treated to snacks to celebrate my personal best. Thrilled to have been part of it all.”
Holly Berry, Brighton Half 2025
See our photos from 2025!
Our runners gave their all, taking on one of the most iconic fundraising challenges out there.
We’re looking for talented local photographers to help capture these incredible moments in 2026. Interested in volunteering your skills?
Author Matt Haig joined the Team Grassroots at the Brighton Half Marathon, supporting a cause close to his heart. In his words:
“I ran the Brighton half marathon with my dad who was (and still is) over seventy. I struggled to keep up with him, but we finished it together and the thing that motivates you when it gets tough is doing it for a good cause and doing it for Grassroots Suicide Prevention is obviously for me quite personal and incentivising as someone who overcame suicidal depression. They do great practical work on suicide prevention and are Brighton based so raising money for them for the Brighton half was a logical fit and a good reason to do it. Especially as running and exercise is very linked to me with my recovery and mental health. So, I think running for a cause that means something is key to give you focus and motivation.”
FAQ's
What time does the race start?
The race begins promptly at 9:30am. We recommend all runners arrive at the race site by 8:30am to allow enough time for preparation.
Where does the race start?
Both the start and finish lines are located at Hove Lawns.
What happens if I drop out or can’t take part?
If you withdraw before the official withdrawal deadline, we may be able to offer you a place in the following year’s Brighton Half Marathon or another event we hold places for.
If you drop out after the deadline, you’ll be required to cover the cost of your place in line with our terms and conditions.
What happens if I don’t reach the fundraising target?
The target is very achievable, and we’re here to support you every step of the way with tips and resources. If you’re finding it difficult, please reach out to our team. You can also choose to top up your fundraising by paying the remaining amount yourself, this is entirely optional.
Can my friends and family come to watch?
Absolutely! Team Grassroots will have a marquee in a prime location, plus several cheer points along the route where friends and family can join to show their support.
Are there refreshments available?
Yes, our marquee will be stocked with bottled water and a variety of energy snacks before and after the race. On the course, there are four official drinks stations:
Miles 3 and 6: Water
Miles 8 and 11: HIGH5 and water
Is there parking?
As the Brighton Half Marathon is a large event with many road closures, parking can be challenging. To help, a Park & Ride service is available and can be booked during registration or via our online shop. You’ll receive a QR code with your booking that must be shown to a marshal for scanning—either printed or on your phone is fine. The Park & Ride site opens at 7:00am, with buses running regularly to the race venue.
Are there toilets?
Yes. There are public toilets along Hove Promenade, plus additional portable toilets and urinals in and around the race village and at all four drinks stations.
Accessible toilets are available at Race Village and at Drinks Stations 2 and 3.
Where can I leave my bag?
The baggage drop opens at 7:30am on race day. Your race number includes a baggage label which should be securely attached to your bag handle before handing it in. Please use a waterproof bag and avoid packing valuables.
Where can I stay?
Brighton gets busy during race weekend, so it’s best to book early. You’ll find a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs to suit all budgets. For accommodation options, visit www.visitbrighton.com.
Contact our team
For more information, questions, or assistance, reach out to our friendly team.
Support us in other ways
Donate
Whether you can spare a little or a lot, your donations help us to keep more people safe from suicide. Donate today and save lives.
Fundraise
From marathons and challenges to work events and parties, we will help you succeed with your charity fundraising.
Volunteer
International names, UK brands and local businesses have all worked with us to show that they care about saving lives from suicide. Start your journey today.