9k Run Havant: Scenic Coastal Route from Emsworth Mill Pond

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 9.2km coastal route offers a refreshing, near-level running experience across a mix of paved paths and well-trodden coastal trails. Starting in Havant and heading toward the charming maritime town of Emsworth, runners can enjoy a flat, fast-paced "lasso" loop with a total ascent of just 11 meters—making it an ideal choice for a tempo session or a scenic recovery run. The highlight of the route is the circuit around the Emsworth Mill Pond, where the sea air and panoramic views across Chichester Harbour provide a stunning backdrop that distracts from the late-stage fatigue of a 9km effort.

Steeped in maritime history, the area between Havant and Emsworth was once famous for its oyster industry, which thrived in the sheltered, salty waters of the Great Deep. As you navigate the shoreline, you are running along the edge of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, popular with birdwatchers and local sailors alike. The transition from the urban fringes of Havant to the serene, historic quay of Emsworth captures the quintessential character of the Hampshire coast, offering a peaceful escape that feels a world away from the nearby A27.