The Big Pilgrimage

AUG

23

2026

A point to point mixed terrain run from Mayflower Park, Southampton, following The Old Way with a short river boat crossing, historic landmarks, sticker-collecting race bibs and options for coach transport and alternative eco medals.

Sun 23 Aug 2026

Southampton, South East (England)

Registration

26 miles 15 miles

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The Big Pilgrimage

The Big Pilgrimage is a point to point mixed terrain running event offering two distances that follow the start of a recently identified Pilgrim Trail called "The Old Way." The route begins at Mayflower Park in Southampton and follows coastal and countryside trails that feature historic and coastal landmarks. The 15 mile course finishes at the medieval ruins of Titchfield Abbey and the marathon finishes in the grounds of Boundary Oak School near Wickham.

A short boat crossing is part of the route: runners cross the Hamble River from Hamble foreshore to Warsash by vessel as they continue along the coast toward Titchfield Haven. Participants pass landmarks including Netley Castle, Netley Abbey, the chapel at Royal Victoria Country Park and Titchfield Abbey, and collect a sticker at each to create a collectable race bib.

Prebooked coach transport to the start is offered from the finish locations for a fee of £10; the deadline to add transport to an entry is 16/08/26. Registration and bib collection take place at Mayflower Park on race day. Mandatory kit includes at least 500ml of carried fluid and appropriate clothing for changing weather; organisers advise downloading the GPX file for navigation. A bag drop will transfer bags from the start to the finish. Canicross entries are not accepted. Runners may opt to have a tree planted instead of receiving a finishers medal. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.