Irish Life Dublin Marathon 2026

The Irish Life Dublin Marathon is a single-lap city loop starting on Leeson Street Lower in central Dublin. The course descends past St Stephen's Green and continues through the historic Liberties, passing St Patrick's Cathedral, before crossing to the north side of the city via the River Liffey. At approximately 6km, runners enter Phoenix Park, passing Dublin Zoo before exiting near Castleknock. The route re-enters the park at Knockmaroon Gate and descends toward Chapelizod and Inchicore. After undulating sections through Dolphin's Barn and a challenging stretch around Clonskeagh, runners face the notorious Heartbreak Hill before a long final descent along Stillorgan Road, Nutley Lane and Merrion Road, finishing at Pepper Canister Church. The course is largely flat with some rolling hills and a handful of testing climbs.