Fancy lacing up your trainers and taking on a challenge? 🔥
The UK boasts a fantastic range of running events, from iconic marathons to gruelling ultra-challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned runner, just starting out or looking to soak up some of the buzzing atmosphere, there’s something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll be rounding up some of the best running events in the UK, including the world-famous London Marathon, the historic Great North Run and the exhilarating Isle of Wight Ultra Challenge.
So, on your marks, get set, go!
TCS London Marathon
27th April 2025
The TCS London Marathon is one of the world’s most iconic marathons, attracting thousands of runners and spectators each year. If you’re a runner, getting a place in the London Marathon can be tough. You can try your luck in the ballot, run for a charity or qualify for a ‘good for age’ or championship place. Plus, this marathon route is packed with great London landmarks, from Tower Bridge at mile 12 to Big Ben at mile 25.
As a spectator, the London Marathon is an incredible experience. The atmosphere is electric, with crowds lining the streets cheering on the runners with inspiring (and often comical) signs. See world-class athletes and everyday heroes pushing themselves to their limits, all while enjoying the sights and sounds of London. It’s a truly unforgettable day out!
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The Great North Run
7th September 2025
The Great North Run is a world-famous half marathon taking place every September in North East England. It’s known for being the world’s biggest half marathon, with tens of thousands of runners taking to the streets each year. The course starts in Newcastle upon Tyne and finishes in South Shields, taking runners along a scenic route that passes through both urban and coastal areas.
If you’re thinking about running the Great North Run, you’ll need to register in advance as spaces fill up quickly. Entry is open to runners of all abilities, from seasoned marathoners to those new to running. As a spectator, the Great North Run is a fantastic running event to experience. With a lively crowd throughout, you’ll see people of all ages and backgrounds taking part, making it a truly inclusive and inspiring event.
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Oxford Half
12th October 2025
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The Oxford Half Marathon is a fantastic running event taking place in the heart of Oxford, England. It’s a great opportunity for runners of all abilities to challenge themselves and uniquely experience this historic city. The course is known for being relatively flat and fast, making it ideal for those aiming to ring that PB bell!
Whether you’re a seasoned long-distance runner or taking on your first half marathon, the atmosphere at the Oxford Half is always electrifying. Spectators line the streets, cheering on runners and creating a truly exciting setting. The route takes you through some of Oxford’s most iconic landmarks, including the University Parks, the River Cherwell and the stunning college buildings. Entry requirements for the Oxford Half typically involve registering online and paying an entry fee – but don’t forget this event is usually very popular, so be sure to sign up early to secure your place.
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Bath Half Marathon
16th March 2025
The Bath Half Marathon is a March running event that showcases the beauty of this historic Roman city. With its winding streets and beautiful Georgian architecture, the course follows the River Avon creating a flat 21.1km route.
To enter the Bath Half Marathon, you must be 17 years or older on the day of the race. Places often sell out quickly, so it’s best to register early. While the race itself is an exhilarating experience, spectating the Bath Half Marathon is also a wonderful occasion. Enjoy the splendid atmosphere throughout the city and along the route itself, with crowds of enthusiastic supporters cheering on the finishers.
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AJ Bell Great Scottish Run
5th October 2025
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Held in the vibrant city of Glasgow, the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run is one of Scotland’s favourite long-distance events. The course takes you through the heart of Glasgow, showcasing grand landmarks and the city’s lively atmosphere. With thousands of participants and enthusiastic crowds lining the streets, the energy is contagious!
If you’re not a runner, don’t worry! Spectating at the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run is just as enjoyable. Expect music, entertainment and plenty of opportunities to cheer on the runners. It’s a great way to soak up the excitement and experience the city’s lively spirit. So, whether you’re lacing up your running shoes or simply cheering from the sidelines, the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run is a UK running event not to be missed.
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AJ Bell Bristol Run
11th May 2025
The AJ Bell Bristol Run is a great event for runners of all abilities. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your running journey, there’s a distance for everyone to enjoy – from a challenging half marathon or a PB-smashing 10k. The route takes you through the heart of Bristol, past vibrant neighbourhoods and buzzing crowds.
Plus spectating is sure to leave you feeling inspired as you watch people of all ages and abilities achieve their goals. And best of all this UK running event takes place in May, so fingers crossed for sunny spring skies! To enter the AJ Bell Bristol Run, simply head over to the Great Run website, sign up and pay the entry fee.
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AJ Bell Great Manchester Run
18th May 2025
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Next up, we’re heading up north for another May long-distance event for those looking for a flat running route. The AJ Bell Great Manchester Run is a fantastic running event for runners of all abilities, offering both 10k and half marathon courses. With 30,000 runners taking to the streets of Manchester, the cheering crowds are a true highlight of this UK running event.
If you’re not running yourself, soak up the atmosphere by joining the spectators at the AJ Bell Great Manchester Run. There are plenty of viewpoints along the route, so you can cheer on your friends and family or simply enjoy the spectacle. Best of all, this event is well-organised, with clear information about road closures and plenty of crowd control measures in place. Just be sure to arrive early to secure a good spot!
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AJ Bell Great South Run
18th-19th October 2025
The AJ Bell Great South Run is a world-famous 10-mile race taking place in Portsmouth. With its stunning coastal scenery, enthusiastic crowds and vibrant atmosphere, it’s an incredible event for both runners and spectators.
And if you’re not running yourself, spectating at the Great South Run is a fantastic way to spend the day. The course winds its way through Portsmouth’s historic dockyard and along the seafront, offering plenty of opportunities to cheer on the runners and soak up the atmosphere. With loud music and a friendly crowd, the Great South Run is a fun day out for all the family.
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The Big Half
7th September 2025
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The Big Half is a London running event with an epic atmosphere that can only be compared to a festival! With its iconic course winding through the capital, from Tower Bridge to the Cutty Sark, the Big Half offers an awesome experience for runners of all abilities.
If spectating is more your thing, the Big Half is a great way to soak up the running community’s atmosphere. There are plenty of iconic landmarks to view the route from, offering stunning views of the city and the runners. So, don’t forget to secure your race bib on the Big Half website or remember to get up early to bag a great spot at the finish line.
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Battersea Park Running Festival
12th October 2025
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The Battersea Park Running Festival is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of the sport, set in one of London’s favourite parks for running – Battersea Park. With its quaint boating lake, lush greenery and historic architecture, the park provides a picturesque setting for a half or full marathon this October.
Whether you’re a seasoned runner aiming to set a new personal best or a beginner looking to challenge yourself, the Battersea Park Running Festival offers a variety of distances to suit all abilities. Starting and finishing at the Battersea Park Millennium Arena, you’ll wind your way through the park, looping around the Bandstand and inspiring passersby. If you’re not participating, the festival offers a fantastic opportunity to discover the park’s dynamic atmosphere. Find a spot by the lake and enjoy the sights and sounds of this running event.
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ABP Newport Marathon Festival
13th April 2025
Boasting the title of the flattest marathon in the UK, the ABP Newport Marathon Festival is a favoured running event for smashing your PBs. Taking place in April 2025, this running festival offers a variety of distances, including a marathon, half marathon, 10K and mile race.
This marathon course winds through Newport as well as its rural outskirts, passing the Transporter Bridge and the stunning scenery of the Gwent Levels. And for spectators, the ABP Newport Marathon Festival provides an exciting atmosphere. With cheering crowds lining the route, it’s an inspiring experience for both runners and supporters.
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Isle of Wight Ultra Challenge
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3rd & 4th May 2025
Taking place on this picturesque island on England’s south coast, the Isle of Wight Ultra Challenge is a distinct running event perfect for those looking to test their endurance and discover some stunning coastal views. This multi-day challenge offers various distances to suit all abilities, from a challenging 100km to a more manageable 25km. To enter, you’ll need to register online and meet the minimum fundraising target for your chosen distance.
If you’re not running yourself, spectating at the Isle of Wight Ultra Challenge is a great way to experience the island’s sights. There are plenty of vantage points along the route for spotting runners and local landmarks alike – including the Needles, Compton Bay and Culver Down.
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Edinburgh Marathon Festival
25th May 2025
The Edinburgh Marathon Festival is Scotland’s largest running event, attracting thousands of participants and spectators each year. It’s a fantastic weekend of sport for runners of all abilities, with distances ranging from 5k to the full marathon – plus junior races! The festival is known for its upbeat atmosphere and stunning route, which takes in some of Edinburgh’s most iconic sights, including Portobello Beach and the majestic Arthur’s Seat.
For marathon entry, you’ll need to meet the qualifying time, but there are plenty of other races with no qualifying time required. As a spectator, you’ll be treated to a vibrant atmosphere. Watch as runners pass through the city centre and along the coastline or even head to Arthur’s Seat for an outstanding vantage point.
Hackney Half
18th May 2025
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The Hackney Half is one of London’s fastest-growing running events, and it’s easy to see why! This vibrant half marathon takes you through the heart of East London, showcasing Hackney’s unique culture and buzzing atmosphere. With its 13.1-mile flat course and lively crowds, the Hackney Half is perfect for runners of all abilities.
As a spectator, you’ll be treated to a fantastic day out. The route is lined with cheering crowds, music and a real sense of community spirit, with local businesses and residents coming together to support the runners. Plus, entry requirements for the Hackney Half are straightforward. You simply need to be over 18 years old and able to run the distance. Places often sell out quickly, so it’s best to register early to avoid disappointment.
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