Hastings Half Marathon & Mini Run

The Hastings Half Marathon involves a 237-metre climb before returning runners to the seafront for a quick finish. This 13.1-mile road race, held annually in March in Hastings, East Sussex, includes a Mini Run alongside the main event. Approximately 5,000 participants enter each year, giving it the feel of a large town race. The course is challenging, particularly in the early stages, featuring multiple extended ascents and undulating sections before a smoother final part. The race begins near the seafront, proceeds towards Battle, circles the rear of Hastings, and then descends through the Old Town and fishing village before concluding on the promenade. The route crosses residential streets, historic areas, nearby hills, coastal roads, and offers sea vistas. The latter two-thirds of the race are flat or downhill, contributing to the possibility of fast times despite the course's difficulty relative to its distance. Established in the mid-1980s, the race is associated with the Hastings Lions Club and has received high rankings and positive feedback from runners, including recognition from Runners' World.