AJ Bell
Great South 5k
The AJ Bell Great South Run 5k is back to kick off the AJ Bell Great South Run weekend on Saturday 17 October 2026. Expect beautiful views across the Solent, an incredible atmosphere, lovely fresh sea air and a fast & flat route – so if you’re aiming for a PB, this route will certainly give you a great shot at getting one. Whether you’re running for fun, fundraising for a cause close to your heart, or chasing a new goal, this is your moment to shine. It’s also the perfect running event if you’re just starting out, or training for your first 5K event. You can be start-line ready in 12 weeks with our 5k training plan here.
Be Your Greatest in 2026 – Sign up now and be part of something great in October!
A booking fee (£3.00 per entry) is applied at checkout. If you have any queries about Great Run events, see our FAQ page.
What Makes it Great?
Bespoke Medal, Optional T-Shirt and Finishers' Pack
Access Exclusive Runner Reward Discounts
Free Training Plans and Support up to Event Day
Get 10% Off When You Refer A Friend
Run Past Some of the City’s Most Famous Landmarks and Scenic Sea Views
Music and Entertainment to Keep You Motivated
Run Number Personalised with your Name
Event Timetable
Please note: Provisional timetable is subject to change
Training Advice
View All Training Articles
Know what to expect – your Great South 5k route
The AJ Bell Great South 5k packs a lot of punch: nautical sights, historic landmarks, seaside cheer and supportive locals. It’s really no surprise that 99% of Great South Runners say they’d recommend the race to a friend. And with its fast, flat route, the Great South 5k is… Read More.
5 Top Portsmouth Running Routes
Whether you’re training for the Simplyhealth Great South Run or simply want to find somewhere new to run, we want to share with you some of the gems that the Portsmouth area has to offer. Read More.
Training for a 5k – a complete beginner’s guide
If you’re looking to run a marathon, half marathon or even a 10k, a quick online search will throw up an astonishing range of plans and training advice. But for 5ks, not so much. And yet many new runners set themselves the goal of running a 5k – otherwise known… Read More.
The Absolute Beginners Guide to Running
If you’ve been inspired to start running, we’re here to help the thought of running feel less daunting. Read More.
A Runner’s Guide to Portsmouth
With its flat, fast 10-mile route, incredible atmosphere and coastal views to die for, it’s easy to see why the Great South Run is one of our top runner-recommended events. Plus, there’s also the Great South 5K and Junior & Mini races – so whether you’re chasing… Read More.
The myths – and the truth – about the health benefits of running
There are a lot of running myths out there – from the ones we hear all the time (“running is bad for your joints!”) to the weird and wonderful (“running barefoot reduces injuries!”). We want to help clear up what the real health benefits of running are. So we thought… Read More.
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Event Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Great South 5k start and finish?
The Great South 5k starts and finishes on Clarence Esplanade. Check out the route map in the route section.
How difficult is the Great South 5k route?
Expect a fast & flat route – so if you’re aiming for a PB, this route will certainly give you a great shot at getting one.
Know exactly what to expect with some detailed advice on training your Great South 5k route in our training section.
How do I track runners at the Great South 5k?
Easy – with the free Great Run app. Use our accurate tracking feature to keep tabs on family, friends and elites, see their professional photos as soon as they’re uploaded and stay up to date with race day info and last-minute changes. Available from the Apple app store or Google Play.
When will I receive my race number for the Great South 5k?
Your race number (which also contains your timing chip) will arrive 1-2 weeks before the run.
If you got your hands on a last-minute (i.e. 10 days before or later) or overseas entry, you’ll need to collect your race number from the information point (which will be confirmed in your Event Guide). Opening hours are also in your Event Guide, which will be emailed out a month or so before the race – so keep your eyes on your inbox.
Can I leave my bag at the start of the Great South 5k?
Yes. Information about baggage facilities can be found in your event guide. Allow plenty of time for dropping off and make sure you fill out your baggage label (found on your race number), detach it and fasten it securely to your bag before you leave home.
When will I receive pre-event information for the Great South 5k?
Keep a lookout for a ‘One Month To Go!’ email from the Great Run team with your Event Guide. It’s also available on the Great Run website (although check again shortly before the event to catch any updates).
Where can I download a training plan for Great South 5k?
Whether you’re a newbie or a veteran, we have free, easy-to-follow 5k training plans for all distances and experience levels on our Training Plan Page. You’ll also find some bespoke information on training for the Great South 5k route in our Training section.
Where can I celebrate after the Great South 5k?
You can celebrate post-run in the event village with music and food vendors.
And, even better, the start and finish line is super close to the beach.
What is the minimum age for participants?
AJ Bell Great South 5k participants must be aged 14+ on the event day.
