Where: Bath
When: March (this review is from the 2025 race)
Distance: Half marathon
Terrain: Tarmac. Largely flat (big hill at the finish)
Organiser: London Marathon Events
Cost: £56.50 (correct at time of publication)
Website: The Bath Half
Bath Half Marathon is road race organised by London Marathon Events. It costs £56.50 to enter, which is a little on the pricey side, however for what you get on the day, I think it’s worth it.
The start area and event village are both located on Middle Common in Royal Victoria Park. This is easily accessible from Bath Spa train station – about a 15 minute walk. It’s easy to find, just follow the crowds!
I personally feel the event village did not have enough toilets, but there was 30,000 people to cater for!
When your wave is called you walk down to the start line, which is well marshalled, so you can find your correct pen.
The course has plenty of marshals dotted around directing you, and there are spectators at near enough every part of the route.
It’s a two-lap course, but you must make sure you ‘get in your lane’ at the course cross over – roughly 7 miles and 12 miles. If you take the wrong turning, you either finish early, or do another lap! (Not sure which is worse!)
There are six water stations spread out evenly on the route and a HI5 gel station just past the 6 mile mark.
The course is fully on the road and is 90% flat, with the odd small hill on route. Then just before the finish, you have to conquer the killer hill, which probably isn’t that bad if you haven’t just ran 12.5 miles, but it’s got to be done to get that well deserved medal.
As soon as you cross the finish line, you are handed your medal and t-shirt (that’s if you opt in for one, make sure you do, it’s no extra cost!)
You also get handed water and a alcohol free drink from one of the sponsors.
I would definitely do the Bath Half again, this year was my 3rd consecutive year taking part, and I would recommend it to anyone looking to complete a half marathon.
It’s held in March which is a nice time weather wise, however it is very unpredictable!
Race review by @colbystride