Running the Bath Half Marathon

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to run a half marathon? Well, you’re in luck! I ran one last weekend and filmed it: getting ready, the start line, along the route and the glorious finish line. It’s all here, so have a watch (and don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel while you’re there):

It was a tough one, made so much harder by the fact that I basically hadn’t trained. I have learned something about myself though: I am a fair weather runner! I think from now on I’ll stick to half marathons in autumn so I can train through the lovely warm summer months.

You might also like: the best half marathons around the world

If you’re tempted to run the 2016 Bath Half Marathon, here’s a guide to preparing, where to stay and what to eat for those all-important carb loading sessions while you’re there:

Preparing for the Bath Half Marathon

First and foremost, I recommend that you do what I say, not what I do. Training makes all of the difference between a good race and an incredibly difficult one. For those of you thinking that you could never run 21.1 kilometres, I used to believe the same thing. When I signed up for my first half marathon back in 2011 I couldn’t jog one block without feeling like my lungs would burst, but I followed this training plan to the letter and just a few months later I ran 13.1 miles without stopping. Train well, train often and you’ll run a good race.

How to get to Bath

From London, Bath is a few hours by car or just 90 minutes on the train. I recommend taking the train so you don’t have to worry about parking, or using your muscles to drive home after the event. I always book my train tickets using thetrainline.com, but make sure you do it as far in advance as possible to get the best price.

Where to stay in Bath

As I mentioned in my video, I stayed at the Apple Tree Boutique B&B in Bath and as it turned out it was the perfect place to stay for running the Bath Half Marathon. Our room was really comfortable with great amenities (hello White Company toiletries and comfy robes) and, importantly, free wifi. The B&B is located really close to the start and finish line, but in the opposite direction to where the crowds are headed after the race, and it’s a short walk into Bath town centre. But really, Ling, the owner, is the real reason why I loved this place so much. As a runner herself, she had plenty of pre-race tips for us, made us a special porridge breakfast on race day and even brought us a glass of prosecco to celebrate finishing. Next time I’m in Bath I’ll be booking a room here, whether I’m running or not.

Where to eat (AKA carb loading time)

My favourite part about running: eating. For pre or post race fuel, I suggest either Sotto Sotto or Nonna’s Italian, both of which serve incredibly good pizza and pasta, which is the perfect meal to prepare for, or recover from, running 21.1 kilometres. Both restaurants have gluten free options and both offer good service, value for money and delicious meals.

After all of that pasta, there’s nothing left for it but to run your race! Make sure you take some time to see all that Bath has to offer as well (if you need ideas, check out this great post by the lovely Elle)

Have you been to Bath? I’d love to hear your carb loading recommendations, so add them in the comments below!