City to Sea 2026

About the Event

City to Sea: A Coastal Challenge Through Exeter and Beyond
The City to Sea race is an exhilarating journey that takes runners through diverse landscapes along England's stunning coastline. The marathon, half-marathon, and 50k routes offer a mix of flat tarmac paths, gravel trails, and challenging coastal hills.
Starting at the picturesque Exeter Quayside, participants begin their adventure by following the serene Exe Estuary to Dawlish Warren. Here, runners can enjoy scenic views as they continue along the Sea Wall towards Dawlish, where the half-marathon route begins. The path then follows the South West Coast Path through Teignmouth and Shaldon Bridge before turning onto hilly trails leading up to Babbacombe Downs.
The 50k course extends beyond this point with an additional loop from Babbacombe to Meadfoot Beach, adding a unique coastal twist for those seeking extra mileage. This section requires runners to have the route mapped on their phone or watch due to its more intricate navigation compared to the main path which is well-marked.
The race organizers ensure clear signage and marshals at key points along the way, making it easier for participants to stay on track. Runners are advised to keep the Exe Estuary on their left as they head out from Exeter Quayside and then continue with the sea on their left throughout most of the route.
For those interested in extending their experience beyond running, a £8 coach transfer service is available from Babbacombe back to the start line for participants who wish to return earlier or need transportation post-race. Finishers can also purchase an optional bespoke City to Sea medal and warm pasty at the finish line for just £10.
The event features several aid stations providing essential supplies; four along the marathon route, five on the 50k course, and two points of support for half-marathon runners. Participants are encouraged to carry their own water bottles or hydration packs with a minimum capacity of 500ml (250ml for the Half Marathon) filled at least halfway through.
Race day mandatory kit includes having a mobile phone programmed with emergency contact details provided in pre-race information, as well as £20 cash or credit/debit card. Carrying race nutrition like energy gels is recommended due to the long and strenuous stretches along the coast path.
With its blend of urban beginnings and coastal challenges, City to Sea offers an unforgettable running experience for all levels of endurance athletes.
Join us on this remarkable journey from city to sea!

Races Offered

50k Affiliated

Sep 06, 2026

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Distance — 50K

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Type — Running

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30 days remaining

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£50.00

50k Unaffiliated

Sep 06, 2026

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Distance — 50K

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Type — Running

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30 days remaining

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£52.00

Half Marathon Affiliated

Sep 06, 2026

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Distance — 21.1K

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Type — Running

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30 days remaining

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£35.00

Half Marathon Unaffiliated

Sep 06, 2026

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Distance — 21.1K

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Type — Running

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30 days remaining

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£37.00

Marathon Affiliated

Sep 06, 2026

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Distance — 42.2K

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Type — Running

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30 days remaining

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£43.00

Marathon Unaffiliated

Sep 06, 2026

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Distance — 42.2K

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Type — Running

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30 days remaining

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£45.00

Weather History

These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in Torquay.

thermostat Temperature

11.7° / 17.8°

wb_sunny Feels like

9.4° / 15.5°

light_mode Avg sunshine hours

8h 29m

water_drop Avg rainfall

3.8 mm

ac_unit Avg snowfall

—

air Avg wind speed

15.5 km/h (Gentle breeze)

opacity Sweat loss rate

Low

terrain Course conditions

Firm and slightly soft

sunny Max UV Index

Moderate (3.5)

humidity_mid Humidity

83.4%

wb_twilight Sunrise

06:51

nightlight Sunset

19:27

About Torquay

Learn more about the host city, Torquay.

Torquay is a town on the coast of the English Riviera and South Devon region of Devon. Since the 19th century, it has been a fashionable seaside resort in the English Riviera. The town sits on the shore of the English Channel, on the northern edge of Tor Bay, an east facing bay that is part of the larger Lyme Bay.