Running Trail Running Events in Brighton 2026–2027

From Run Fanatics

Whether you’re a seasoned runner, a complete beginner, or simply a devoted ABBA fan, ABBATHON is designed to be welcoming, accessible and full of feel-good energy from start to finish. Run, jog, walk or dance your way around the course through one of the city’s most iconic parks, with ABBA hits keeping the atmosphere high every step of the way. Whether you’re chasing a PB, running your first 5K, or just here for the ABBA vibes, ABBATHON is all about enjoying every step. We’re taking the tribute act out of the pub and into the park for the whole family to enjoy, combining live music, a DJ, on-course music guides, professional photography and finisher’s medals to create a fully immersive themed race experience.

The Maverick East Sussex Trail 2027 SATURDAY 3 APRIL 2027 | STANMER PARK We’re heading back to one of the true jewels of the South East as Maverick East Sussex returns for another unforgettable day on the trails - delivering everything we believe trail running should be: raw, scenic, challenging, and deeply rewarding. With three route options to choose from, this is an event designed to showcase the very best of this iconic stretch of the South Downs. Each distance has been carefully shaped to immerse you in the landscape -linking flowing ridgelines, open downland, and hidden woodland tracks into a single, memorable journey across this remarkable part of the UK. At the heart of it all sits the legendary South Downs Way, bringing those unmistakable rolling hills and undulating trails that define the region. You’ll climb steadily towards the iconic Ditchling Beacon - the third-highest point in the South Downs National Park - where, on a clear day, the views stretch north towards London and south out across the English Channel. Underfoot, expect a real mix of terrain: chalky downland tracks that demand focus on the descents, twisting woodland paths weaving through the trees, and open farmland sections where the landscape opens up and the horizon takes over. It’s a course that rewards patience, rhythm, and a willingness to embrace whatever the day brings. All three routes are fully accessible to a wide range of abilities, making East Sussex a perfect entry point for those transitioning from road to trail, while still offering enough challenge and elevation to test experienced runners early in the season. And for those looking to make the most of the weekend, the truly unique Brighton Trail Marathon run in conjunction with the Brighton Marathon weekend - takes place the following day. It’s the perfect opportunity to go longer, push further, and turn your time in Sussex into a full weekend of running on some of the UK’s most iconic coastal and downland terrain. Just under an hour from London by train or car, East Sussex is as accessible as it is beautiful -making it hard to justify missing it. This is East Sussex the Maverick way: big skies, bold climbs, and a proper sense of adventure from start to finish.

The Brighton Trail Marathon SUNDAY 4 APRIL 2027 | STANMER PARK Back for a second year, the Maverick Trail to Road Marathon returns to once again unite two worlds of running - where the raw freedom of the trails meets the electric energy of a world-class city marathon finish. Your journey begins in the rolling hills and woodland trails of Stanmer Park - Brighton’s gateway to adventure. From the very first step, you’re immersed in classic South Downs terrain: twisting singletrack, open chalk ridgelines, and sweeping valley views that set the tone for everything to come. It’s a proper trail runner’s opening act - wild, varied, and beautifully unforgiving in places. From there, the route unfolds across the South Downs National Park, linking rugged countryside trails with flowing descents and testing climbs. Every mile delivers something different - quiet woodland sections, exposed hillside paths, and that unmistakable sense of space that only the Downs can offer. And then comes one of the defining moments of the day: Ditchling Beacon. The highest point in East Sussex becomes your own personal hill climb challenge. With the road closed exclusively for the event, this iconic ascent is yours to attack. Bring the energy, embrace the atmosphere, and see if you’ve got what it takes to be the quickest to the top. Legs burning, lungs working overtime, crowds lifting you upwards - this is a moment that will live long in the memory. But the day is far from over. Beyond the Beacon, the route continues to wind across the Downs, serving up more flowing trails, open views, and undulating terrain before gradually drawing you back towards the city. It’s a section that rewards patience and strong pacing—where the beauty of the landscape contrasts perfectly with the challenge building in your legs. Then comes the shift. As you transition from trail to tarmac, you merge seamlessly onto the Brighton Marathon course for the final 6km—joining thousands of road runners and stepping straight into the unmistakable buzz of Brighton Marathon weekend. The atmosphere builds with every stride as you leave the hills behind and head toward the coast, where the crowds grow louder and the city comes alive around you. The finish on Hove Lawns is nothing short of unforgettable. Spectators line the seafront, the noise carries you home, and the festival energy of Brighton Marathon weekend takes over completely. It’s a finish line that stays with you long after the day is done. This isn’t just another marathon. It’s a collision of two disciplines - solitude and spectacle, grit and celebration -brought together in one truly unique race experience. Be part of something genuinely one-of-a-kind -the UK’s original trail-to-road marathon.