Step into Christmas

Get ready to lace up your running shoes for the exciting "Step into Christmas" event, organized by Long Player Running! This festive occasion will take place on Sunday, December 13th, 2026, along the stunning beachfront promenade at Southbourne, just east of Bournemouth. Participants can enjoy breathtaking coastal views while choosing their own distance on a flat, tarmacked route suitable for runners of all abilities. Whether you’re aiming for a 5K or challenging yourself with an ultra-marathon, this 'out and back' course allows you to run at your own pace, with flexible start times available between 8 AM and 9:30 AM. All finishers completing one lap or more will receive a unique medal, and with a maximum time limit of 7 hours to complete the distance, there’s plenty of time to enjoy the experience. Runners can look forward to aid stations stocked with both sweet and savory treats, and essential facilities like public toilets and showers are conveniently located along the promenade. The course is officially measured and certified, making it a perfect opportunity for those looking to log a road marathon. Join us for a memorable day filled with holiday cheer, fitness, and community spirit at the "Step into Christmas" event!

Set on the beachfront promenade at Southbourne (SoBo), to the east of Bournemouth, with views along the coast, this is a flat, tarmacked event suitable for all abilities. Step into Christmas consists of an 'out and back' route along the prom offering participants the opportunity to choose their own distance, from 5K to ultra-marathon. All finishers of lap or more will receive a medal. We offer flexible start times between 8am and 9.30am. Just turn up when you're ready to run. All runners to finish by 3pm (maximum 7 hours). Number pick-up is on the day at race registration before you start the event. We will have an aid and drinks table at the start/finish of each lap. There will be a selection of savoury and sweet items. There will also be an area to leave your own items.Please note we do not provide plastic cups; bring your own. Public toilets and showers are available along the promenade. Final instructions will be sent out via email before the event with full race day information. Laps are a 5.3km, 3.28 mile, out and back, course. There is no elevation gain / loss on this route; making flat and fast. Please note, as per UK Athletics rules, distance restrictions apply to participants ages 20 or under This route is officially measured & certified by the Association of UK Course Measurers so it counts as a road marathon for 100 marathon club purposes.