As featured in Runner’s World – May 2026

The River Run Half Marathon & 8 Miler

We’re back for 2027 with a brand-new venue at the incredible Lancing College!

After two consecutive sold-out years, The River Run returns with an exciting new home, an updated Half Marathon route and a brand-new 8 Mile race.

Both distances will start and finish in the stunning grounds of Lancing College. The Half Marathon will follow much of the route runners enjoyed last year, but without the section alongside the airport.

Whether you’re a trail enthusiast or a road runner looking for something a little different, The River Run offers a fast, scenic and accessible route through a mix of gravel paths, riverside trails, open countryside and some of the iconic stiles that have become part of the race.

The River Run is the final race of our 2027 South Coast Series, making it the perfect way to round off the series.

Organisers Description

The third year of The River Run Half Marathon brings some exciting changes for 2027, including a new home at Lancing College and the addition of a brand-new 8 Mile race.

Both distances will start and finish in the impressive grounds of Lancing College, giving The River Run a fresh setting while keeping the riverside character runners have come to love.

The Half Marathon will head towards the Toll Bridge before joining the Downs Link, where a smoother and wider trail leads towards Upper Beeding.

From there, runners will continue through the town and across the newly built bridge, passing behind the historic Bramber Castle before rejoining the river on the opposite bank for the return towards Lancing College.

Runners will be set off in different start waves to help reduce congestion and give everyone more space to settle into their race and enjoy the course.

And yes — the much-loved Cow Marshal will be returning once again to cheer runners on and keep watch over the course.

What's Included?

• Accurately measured course with clear signage throughout, including UKTC markers, ribbons and directional arrows
• Bespoke River Run finisher medal for every finisher
• Trophies for the top three runners
• Chip timing for accurate race results
• Professional race-day photography from Pace Line Media, with photographers positioned around the course and within the event village
• MC Martin Hesketh bringing the atmosphere throughout the day, alongside the South Coast Series soundtrack
• FREE baggage drop located next to Race HQ
• On-site toilets, with additional facilities available along the course
• Water stations positioned at various points around the route
• Fully stocked aid stations with gels, fruit and other race-day goodies
• A varied course featuring gravel paths, the Downs Link, riverside trails, town footpaths, fields and light trail sections
• Complimentary post-race drink and snack from the Finishers Marquee
• Pre-purchased T-shirts and cups available to collect from the Finishers Marquee
• Food and drink vendors, plus seating areas for spectators
• A fully marshalled course, supported by professional traffic management to help keep runners safe

Race Day Photography

Professional race-day photography will be provided by Pace Line Media, with photographers positioned around the course and within the event village to capture the action from start to finish.

Keep an eye out for the cameras, give us a wave, and make sure you’re ready for that finish-line shot!