Runners of all abilities are invited to take part in the iconic Garmin New Forest Marathon 2026 this September to raise vital funds for Maggie’s Southampton, a charity providing free expert support for people impacted by cancer.
Set against the backdrop of the New Forest National Park, this much-loved event combines an exhilarating race with stunning natural scenery, offering participants a truly unforgettable experience. From ancient woodlands to picturesque villages, runners will be immersed in one of the UK’s most beloved landscapes.
Participants can choose from three race distances: full marathon, half marathon and10km.
Beyond the race itself, the event promises a vibrant festival atmosphere, complete with live music, food stalls, and family-friendly entertainment. Attendees can even make a full weekend of it with on-site camping, creating a memorable experience for runners, supporters, and nature lovers alike.
Those who sign up for a charity place with Maggie’s can access half-price race entry, making it even easier to get involved and make a difference.
For many runners, the motivation to take part goes far beyond the finish line. One participant from last year shared: “What inspired me and Sophie to fundraise was my mum being diagnosed with cancer a few years ago, and losing my grandma in the same year. During my mum’s treatment, my dad and I found real comfort at Maggie’s. It’s a place that made us feel supported and less alone, and we know it would have meant so much to my grandma too.
Taking on the run together was incredibly special. The sense of achievement was amazing, knowing we’d not only done something positive for ourselves, but that every mile of training and the day itself might help make a difference to someone else’s life.”
Stories like this highlight the powerful impact Maggie’s has on individuals and families facing cancer, and how fundraising events like the New Forest Marathon help ensure that support continues.
Maggie’s Southampton offers expert practical, emotional and psychological support in a welcoming, non-clinical environment – entirely free of charge.
Every fundraising effort makes a difference:
£30 could fund an hour of specialist support
£60 could provide an exercise class for up to 10 people
£100 could fund a two-hour stress management workshop
£250 could support a six-week bereavement course
£3,000 could keep Maggie’s Southampton open for an entire day
How to Register
- Register via Eventbrite to access a discounted entry.
- Use your discount code to book your free race place on the official New Forest Marathon website.
- Set up your JustGiving page and start fundraising: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/maggiesnfm26
Entry Fees & Fundraising Targets
- Full Marathon: £34.50 (usually £69) – Fundraising target £200
- Half Marathon: £27 (usually £54) – Fundraising target £150
- 10K: £21.50 (usually £43) – Fundraising target £100
Based on the grounds of the University Hospital, Maggie’s Southampton has supported thousands of people impacted by cancer – free of charge and without the need for a referral.
The centre is part of Maggie’s network of 27 centres across the UK, which began 30 years ago with the vision of creating beautiful, uplifting spaces where people with cancer can find expert support at all stages of cancer.
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