Manx Mountain Marathon and Half Marathon

The Manx Mountain Marathon was first contested in 1970, the 54th race will take place in 2026. It is a challenging point to point fell race (not an overnight orienteering style 'mountain marathon') 

The full route goes from Ramsey in the North of the Isle of Man to Port Erin in the South. The half marathon follows the second part of the same route. Most of the route is unmarked along paths and open moorland, so some navigation is required. Runners should note that the weather can be challenging at this time of year.

The first 25 km of the race passes over the scenic northern fells, including the Island’s highest peak, Snaefell. A short trail section brings runners into the village of St Johns, where the half mountain marathon entrants join in.  The route then passes over the southern hills, finishing with some spectacular coastal paths and steep climbs.

The Manx Mountain Marathon is a counter for the Callin Wild sponsored Manx Fell Running League.  Local company Apollo Blinds sponsor the Half Manx Mountain Marathon and Capital International sponsor the full Mountain Marathon.

Distance – Just under 50km ('Marathon') and just under 22km ('Half Marathon')
Ascent – 2600m (Marathon)  1100m (Half Marathon)
Category – A/Superlong (Marathon), A/Long (Half Marathon)

Marathon registration  is at the St Paul`s church hall Ramsey from 7.00 until 7.45 with the start from the Market Place  (GR. 453943) at 8am..

Half Marathon registration is from 12.00 until 12.45. The start is at 1pm close to the registration area. UPDATE - HMM REGISTRATION & RACE START WILL NOW BE IN GAREY NY CLOIE AT THIE SLEAU WHALLIAN, FOXDALE ROAD, ST JOHNS, IM4 3AS (same location as 2025)

Electronic timing by Manx Timing Solutions will be used for the 2026 race.

Held under FRA rules, waterproof whole-body cover (trousers & jacket with hood, both with taped seams), hat, gloves, map and compass, whistle and emergency food are required. The use of GPS and electronic devices for navigation is not allowed. FRA rules determine that running poles must not be used.  Headphones of any kind should not be used.

Small bags can be transported from the start to the finish for both races. For the MMM there is a limited option for a bag drop at St Johns. Water is provided at some check points, but competitors must carry their own cup (or bottle). Further details will be provided via our Facebook page and website.

Coach transport to the start of the full race in Ramsey is bookable at a cost of £7 per person from Port Erin, Douglas and Onchan. This can be booked and paid for at the following link https://manxfellrunners.org/mmm-transport-2026-booking-form

The start of the Half Mountain Marathon can be reached by public transport (routes 4,5 and 6) bus timetables can be found HERE.

Entrants have the option to purchase a  commemorative T shirt, keeping entry fees low.  When choosing your T Shirt size, please check the size carefully as T shirts can't be changed after the last order date. The last date for T-shirt orders is the 14th March.

Both races finish at the Bradda Glen in Port Erin where food and drinks can be purchased at Sami's at the Bradda Glen restaurant. Runners will be able to purchase a plate of pasta for £12 with vegetarian and meat options (until 5pm). The Bradda Glen Restaurant is also the venue for the prize giving which will be held between 4pm and 5pm.

All entrants should check the further details of both races, found on the MFR website. This includes race maps and route descriptions.

The organisers reserve the right to change any part of the course. Refunds and deferrals are not normally provided. Minimum age of entry is 18 years on day of race but must turn 19 by the 31st December.

The Visit Isle of Man Website has details of accommodation. Details of ferries and accommodation deals can be found here (2026 ferry timetables are available from early November) Flights are available from a number of UK airports, details of links and carriers can be found here. 

This short video filmed at the 50^th race gives a flavour of the race and the terrain.

Race Organiser - MMM Richie Stevenson, HMMM David Griffin