The Early Years
2007Established in 2007, the Beachy Head Marathon is now 19 years old. From its first edition in Eastbourne, it has evolved into a race that reflects the character of its host region in United Kingdom.
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Course & Elevation
A scenic and challenging coastal route starting from Eastbourne seafront, taking runners along the famous white cliffs of the South Downs including the iconic Beachy Head lighthouse viewpoint. The course features significant elevation changes with gradual climbs and descents through rolling downland and picturesque villages before returning to the seafront.
Surface: road Profile: Hilly
Weather
Temperature 12°C
Humidity 75%
Rain Chance 55%
Typical autumn weather with cool temperatures and moderate chance of rain. Coastal winds can be significant, particularly at higher elevations. Runners should expect variable conditions typical of South Coast autumn.
The Race
Eastbourne
Race Lore
The Course Record
2019The fastest time ever recorded at the Beachy Head Marathon is 02:54:33, set by Eoin Sheridan in 2019. Every year, new contenders line up hoping to challenge that mark on the streets of Eastbourne.
The Hills That Break You
With 890m of elevation gain, the Beachy Head Marathon is not a course for the faint-hearted. The climbs are where races are won and lost — where the gap between training and undertrained reveals itself without mercy. Locals say the course doesn't beat you; it just waits for you to beat yourself.
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Course Record
02:54:33
Eoin Sheridan (2019)
Registration
Registration Opens February
Registration Closes September
Entry Cost £55-£75
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Fun Facts
- ▸ The course passes Beachy Head, the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain at 162 metres, offering stunning panoramic views of the South Coast.
- ▸ Established in 2007, the race has grown into one of the UK's most popular marathon events with strong international participation.
- ▸ The Beachy Head lighthouse, prominently featured on the course, is a famous landmark that has guided ships since 1902.
- ▸ The challenging elevation profile with 890m of climbing makes this one of the toughest marathons in Southeast England despite its relatively modest distance.
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