“Welcome to our detailed guide of the Dublin Marathon course! A scenic tour of Dublin, where you’ll witness stunning landmarks, serene parks, and question everything around Mile 18” 

Here’s a mile-by-mile breakdown:

Miles 1-3: Georgian Charm and Cathedral Gawking

You have finally made it to the start of the Dublin Marathon! Those months of training (and hopefully reading our guides) has lead you you here, The starting line is on now on Lower Leeson Street, not as quaint as Fitzwilliam Street but still Georgian enough that your nanny would get excited about it. The race will begin in four different waves, make sure you are in the correct one. The buzzer will sound and before you know it, you are off! 

As you head towards Saint Stephen's Green, you’re in for a treat! An oasis of green calm in the chaos of Dublin, or at least that's what the American tourists on Gate 1 buses believe. You’ll have both sides of the road to yourself at this point, but don't get too comfortable, you're still sharing it with about 25,000 others.

After winding through Cove Street and Kevin Street Lower (famous for... well, nothing really), you’ll swing onto Patrick Street, and just ahead, you'll be treated to the magnificent Christ Church Cathedral. It's been standing for nearly 1,000 years, longer than your legs will feel like they've been running at this stage.

Then it’s a sharp left onto High Street, where a traffic island lurks, ready to remind you that running isn't your only challenge today. You’ll then coast down the hill towards Bridge Street, with the River Liffey waiting to greet you. That river has flowed through Dublin for centuries, carrying... well, probably a lot of things you'd rather not think about.

Finally, you'll make a right over the James Joyce Bridge, built in 2003 and one of the 21 bridges connecting Dublin, because apparently, they love a good bridge in the capital. Don’t get too excited though, you’ve still got a way to go, and no, Joyce didn’t run marathons either.

There’s a slight incline ahead, but don't panic, it's more of a gentle nudge than a full blown mountain. Swing left at Cardinal’s Corner and and a brief encounter with cobblestones follows (just to keep things nice and spicy). 

Finally, you'll find your first water stop at Aughrim Street. Next, turn onto the North Circular Road, or as the locals call it, the NCR

• Landmarks: Fitzwilliam Square, St. Stephen’s Green, Christchurch Cathedral, James Joyce Bridge.
• Water Station: First chance for water comes at Aughrim Street.

• Pro Tip: Try not to fall over at the bollards, there’s nothing worse than peaking in the first 500 metres. Also, don’t let the beauty of Christchurch distract you from tripping over the traffic island. Save the gawking for your post-race Instagram.

   

Miles 3-6: Phoenix Park & Deer Dodging

As you approach the gates to the Phoenix Park, congratulations! you've just survived three miles. Now, the 5k mark is within sight. You’re feeling fresh, right? As you glide through the gates (or stumble, no judgement here), do keep an eye out for those shnakey traffic islands and road humps. They’ve been known to trip many a runner before you, and not in the motivational sense (well at least I hope not this stage).

Now, welcome to the Phoenix Park, one of the largest enclosed parks in any European capital. We have some notions, right? Back in the 1660s, it was a royal hunting ground. You’ll be pleased to hear that the hunting has stopped, unless you count the small matter of chasing your personal best. A long two mile stretch up Chesterfield Avenue marks your first foray here. Keep your wits about you though, as a herd of fallow deer still calls this place home. They’ve been here so long, they probably think you’re the visitors. If one starts pacing you, don’t take it personally! They do it to everyone.

As you approach the Phoenix Monument on your right, cast your eyes over to Áras an Uachtaráin, the president’s gaff, and if you’re feeling bold, give a wave. Over on your left, you’ll find the American ambassador’s residence. Not quite as picturesque, but I wouldn’t mind crashing there after 26 miles!

If you need more water, fear not, there’s a station coming up, hydration and first aid, all the essentials. Enjoy the cheers and support through the park as you make your way towards Castleknock village. 

• Landmarks: Phoenix Park, Áras an Uachtaráin, American Ambassador’s residence.
• Water Station: Second water station at Chesterfield Avenue.

• Pro Tip: Don’t challenge the deer to a race, they’ll win. Also, avoid the temptation to ask the president if you can take a shortcut through his lawn.

   

Miles 6-10: Castleknock’s Cheers & Phoenix Park The Sequel

As you escape the majestic Phoenix Park through the Castleknock Gates, the road opens up nicely, practically begging for a cheeky mini race between two runners. But remember, it’s a marathon, not an episode of Top Gear. Heading towards Castleknock, you'll find the excitement levels rising in the village, if you don’t hear the crowd cheering for you. You’ll be greeted by fantastic support here, and perhaps a few motivational shouts like, "Only 20 miles to go!"

After a left turn through the lively heart of Castleknock village, it’s all slightly downhill, just like those optimistic thoughts you had about ‘taking it easy today’. You’ll spot another water station (you’ll be getting used to the sight of them by now), along with first aid and toilet facilities for anyone needing to quickly tend to any marathon mishaps.

Back you go into the Phoenix Park via the Knockmaroon Gates, where a lovely bit of decline welcomes you, as if the marathon dieties decided to give you a temporary reprieve. Enjoy it, because that free ride ends as you approach Chapelizod Gate, laying gracefully near the River Liffey. Once outside the park, it's a right turn towards Chapelizod village, where yet another water station awaits. James Joyce, that literary giant, spent time in these parts, likely contemplating Finnegans Wake while strolling around the village. You, however, are probably just contemplating whether it’s socially acceptable to ask a spectator for a piggyback ride at this stage.

• Landmarks: Castleknock Village, Knockmaroon Gate.
• Water Station: More water and toilets right outside Castleknock village and at Chapelizod. Perfect time to rehydrate and refocus.

• Pro Tip: Soak up the crowd’s energy, it’s the closest you’ll get to feeling like a rockstar. Then use the downhill to give your quads a break before the next uphill grind.

   

Miles 10-13: Chapelizod , Saint Lawrence’s “Surprise” & Kilmainham

Having had a brief reunion with the River Liffey, you swing left onto your first real challenge of the day: Saint Lawrence’s Hill. Now, it 's not the most challenging hill of the day (you'll find out, trust me), but it’s definitely going to remind you that yes, this is a marathon, and no, you’re not on an all inclusive holiday in Lanzarote.

Once you’ve bravely clawed your way to the top, take a moment to admire the stunning view of... well, Ballyfermot. Yes, you’ve now reached the dizzying heights of West Dublin suburbia. Hold onto your hats, folks, because you'll soon be turning right, possibly because you’re delirious, but mainly because the course says so.

And what’s this? A bridge looms ahead. Not just any bridge, mind you, this one promises a thrilling few seconds of darkness, giving you just enough time to question all your sanity in deciding to run 26.2 miles. Emerging on the other side, you’re greeted by none other than Kilmainham Gaol where Irish rebels once stayed (possibly after marathons of their own, though they were probably less voluntary).

A swift right turn takes you onto the South Circular Road, where relief awaits in the form of a water station, first aid, and toilet facilities. You’re now headed towards Saint James's Hospital, which is either a reassuring sight or an ominous one, depending on how you're feeling after the 12 mile mark.

As you pass the hospital, you’ll turn right and leave the excitement of Dolphin's Barn behind, bravely venturing onto the Crumlin Road.

• Landmarks: Chapelizod Village, St. Lawrence’s Hill, Ballyfermot, Kilmainham Gaol.
• Water Station: There’s more water near Chapelizod Village, to prehydrate if needed for climbing Saint Lawrence’s Hill. You’ll get another one right at Kilmainham,

• Pro Tip: Conquer Saint Lawrence’s Hill by pretending you’re James Joyce, he loved this area, though I doubt he ran it. And remember, the hill ends eventually despite how it unlikely that will feel at the time. 

   

Miles 13-17: The Historical Stretch (Crumlin Road to Bushy Park)

As you lumber up Crumlin Road, you'll pass the next water/aid station and reach the 13.1-mile mark (yes, halfway!) whether that feels like halfway home or halfway to collapse is all in the mindset. You're now venturing into Drimnagh, where the only thing more abundant than the traffic is the stewards. They’re there to make sure you don’t inadvertently become a new addition to Dublin’s traffic reports.

Swing left off Drimnagh Road onto Walkinstown Road, and brace yourself for the Walkinstown roundabout. It's less a roundabout and more of a social experiment in patience. You’ll then glide down the well surfaced Cromwell’s Fort Road. It’s so smooth, even your feet will thank you. Continue on this road and enjoy the roads of our capital as you approach Bushy Park, a peaceful spot where your mind may try to recover, though your legs might have other ideas.

As you trundle down Kimmage Road West, you'll hit the 16-mile mark at the KCR—Kimmage Crossroads, where you’ll turn right onto Fortfield Road. Fortfield Road then performs a quick jig left, leading you to the 17-mile mark. Finally, you’ll turn left onto Templeogue Road, a delightful stretch heading towards Terenure village. It’s as if Dublin is saying, “You’ve made it this far, you might as well enjoy the view!”

• Landmarks: Kilmainham Gaol, Crumlin Road, Bushy Park.
• Water Station: On the Crumlin Road, perfect for the halfway mark and beyond. There’s another hydration point at Kimmage Crossroads.

• Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for Kilmainham Gaol, and try not to think about how the people inside might’ve had an easier time than you’re currently having.

   

Miles 17-20: Terenure to Milltown: Where Reality Bites

By now, you’ve reached Terenure village, where the locals will cheer you on with the enthusiasm of someone who’s just discovered who’s just heard there’s free pints at the end of a six-hour GAA committee meeting. Continue down Terenure Road East, and prepare for a right turn onto Orwell Road. 

As you descend Orwell Road, take a left onto Orwell Park. Here, you’ll hit the 19-mile mark, perfect for a pit stop at the toilets and aid stations, and to make sure you keep hydrated at this point. They say every mile brings new challenges, I say every 19 miles brings more opportunities to have an existential crisis.

At the end of Orwell Park, take a right onto Milltown Road. Milltown was once the location of a plethora of mills (duh, captain obvious), where the River Dodder was put to work powering them. And let’s not forget the 9 Arches Mill, a lovely distraction, if you can still appreciate architecture at this point.

As you trudge down Milltown Road, brace yourself for another incline. Yes, this is where your legs start to plot a coup as you pass the 20 mile mark. Hang in there though, you're just under 6 miles out from home (and Guinness).

• Landmarks: Terenure Village, Orwell Road, Milltown Road, Nine Arches Bridge.
• Water Station: At Orwell Park as you approach Mile 20. 

• Pro Tip: Think of Orwell Road like George Orwell’s “1984”, it might feel oppressive, but freedom (and the finish line) is only a few miles away.

   

Miles 20-24: Clonskeagh, Heartbreak Hill and the Fabled Downhill

As you proceed down the Milltown Road, get ready for another incline, because who doesn’t love a good hill at this stage, right? You’re officially at the 20 mile mark, so if you’re still feeling fresh, you might want to check your pulse. As you bid farewell to Milltown, take a right into Clonskeagh. While navigating Clonskeagh, you’ll hit the 21 mile mark. Now, if you thought the incline at Milltown was bad, just wait until you get to Roebuck Road. Here’s where the fun begins: at mile 22 say hello to Dublin’s Heartbreak Hill. It’s no Boston, but it’ll feel plenty brutal. 

After your run-in with the bollards, turn left onto Foster's Avenue and enjoy a delightful downhill stretch. It’s like the Dublin marathon’s way of saying, "Sorry for decimating you with that hill; here’s a little treat!" As your legs appreciate gravity again, take a left onto N11 Stillorgan Road, and welcome to Mile 23. As you approach the UCD flyover, remember to keep to the left (and resist the temptation to finish the race on the 46A). Next, take a right turn, cross over the Stillorgan Bypass, and glide down the opposite slip road. If you’re still running past RTÉ, congratulations! Not only have you made it this far, but you’ve also managed to outlast their broadcast schedule. Continue down Nutley Lane. 

• Landmarks: Heartbreak Hill, Foster’s Avenue, UCD Flyover, RTÉ
• Water Station: Hydration stop just before you start the downhill on Foster’s Avenue. 

• Pro Tip: Treat Heartbreak Hill like a bad ex, get over it as quickly as possible. And then, relish the downhill on Foster’s Avenue, it’s what dreams are made of.

   

Miles 24-26.2: Merrion Road to the Sweet, Sweet Finish

You’ll turn left onto Merrion Road, also known as the Embassy Belt, where you’ll pass gaffs so posh you'll wonder if you should've brought a tuxedo. Merrion Road is your near straight shot to the finish line! Just a little further, you’ll wave at the RDS and the 25 mile mark as if they were old friends who kept you company through this epic saga.

When you hit the last half mile, brace yourself: you’re about to be hit with cheers so loud, you'll think you’ve stumbled into a Taylor Swift concert as you enter Northumberland Road.  The finish line has also been altered slightly this year, instead of it being a straight shot down Mount Street Lower after crossing the Grand Canal, you will instead swing left onto Warrington Place then right again onto Mount Street Upper and the finish there.

Congratulations! You’ve just made it through! Well done!

• Landmarks: The RDS
• Water Station: One last station at Mile 24, as Nutley Lane turns onto Merrion Road. Last one!
• Pro Tip: The end is near, so embrace the crowd’s energy, zone out, and let them carry you through that last mile. And then, beeline for that pint of Guinness.

Water Stations Recap (Approximations)

• Mile 2.5: Aughrim Street
• Mile 5: Chesterfield Avenue
• Mile 7: Just after Castleknock Village.
• Mile 9.5: Chapelizod Road
• Mile 11: Kilmainham Gaol
• Mile 13: Crumlin Road
• Mile 16: Kimmage Crossroads
• Mile 19: Orwell Road
• Mile 22: Roebuck Road
• Mile 24: Nutley Lane

So, there you have it! You’ve survived the Dublin Marathon. Whether you sprinted, jogged, or dragged yourself across the finish line, there’s a creamy pint of plain waiting for you at the end.