It’s nearly time for the Bath Half Marathon 2019, so a last chance to step up your training if you’re taking part. Even if you aren’t running, make sure you’re on the scene cheering on the runners and soaking up the atmosphere at this popular annual Bath tradition.

When is the Bath Half Marathon?

This year’s Bath Half Marathon date is Sunday 17th March 2019, with the race officially starting at 11am and the family fun run setting off at 11.20am. Entries are now closed, but all are welcome to come along on the day and cheer the runners on!

The course

The Bath Half Marathon route, available in full on the Bath Half Marathon website, starts and finishes at the same point on Great Pulteney Street. This is one of Europe’s widest Georgian boulevards, so there’s plenty of room for runners and spectators.

This fast, flat course heads gently downhill towards Churchill Bridge, rising up past Green Park Station and taking in Queen Square, Charlotte Street, Bristol Road and Newbridge Road. The runners will then ‘pull’ up towards the beginning of the dual carriageway and onto the ‘Twerton Fork’ before they head back towards the city centre and along Lower Bristol Road. After a second lap, the dramatic finish is at the same spot as the start on Great Pulteney Street.

Where to watch the Bath Half as a spectator

There are many brilliant spots to enjoy the Bath Half 2019 along the course route. Queen Square is one of the most popular spectator areas, but there will also be local bands playing at other ‘cheering’ spots throughout the course. As part of a ‘Battle of the Bands’ competition, you can enjoy music from exceptional local talent at Churchill Bridge, Queen Square, the Victoria Pub on Upper Bristol Road and other spots on Lower Bristol Road.

Road closures

If you’re a local resident or you’ll be driving nearby, there will be a number of road closures to bear in mind. These are available in full at the Bath Half Marathon website, but all of the roads named above will be at least partially closed for a part of the daytime while the race is on.

Crucially, the only access into Bath city centre during the Bath Half will be the northern route via Milsom Street and Walcot Street.

Where to stay for the Bath Half

Want to be in the heart of it all, ready for the excitement of the Bath Half 2019? Bath Holiday Rentals has a number of convenient, comfortable self-catering Bath apartments very close to the start and finish line at Great Pulteney Street.

Pulteney Mews House, The Mews, Edward St Apartment, Vane Garden Flat, Henrietta Garden Apartment and Johnstone on the Weir are all off Great Pulteney Street and just moments from the finish line.  

If you’re not staying nearby and plan to drive in for the Bath Half, the best option is to use one of Bath’s many Park & Ride bus schemes to access the city centre. Access to the city centre and central parking will be limited if not restricted altogether.