There are hundreds of half marathons throughout the UK. Choosing our top ten races is
always a tough job, but we've managed to narrow it down to those listed below. Races were chosen
according to our experience and feedback from friends, colleagues and fellow runners.
1. London Landmarks Half Marathon
Location : Trafalgar Square
Date : 6 April 2025
Well-organised, and a whole lot of fun! This popular race has a lovely flat route taking in all of London's most iconic landmarks.
Regularly attracting celebrity entrants, it is organised by Tommy's to raise money for themselves along with many other good causes.
The event is 100% not-for-profit. Always highly-rated, many runners will agree with
Stephen Mangan who said "It's the best half marathon".
2. Skye Half Marathon
Location : The Fingal Centre at Portree High School
Date : 14 June 2025
Frequently receiving an honourable mention and just missing the top 10. Claiming to be "one of the world's
most scenic races", many seem to agree. Also attracting much applause for a friendly race team and spectators,
it's never a surprise to see this event fill up.
Image provided by whatsonskye.com
3. Cardiff Half Marathon
Location : Cardiff Castle
Date : 6 October 2024
The biggest road race in Wales. Cardiff is a city rich in historical landmarks while boasting many important modern sites.
And this half marathon does an excellent job at showing them off. Reliably sure to fill early, this race has established itself,
and is sure to continue being a must-do race for many runners.
4. Barns Green Half Marathon
Location : Muntham Drive outside the Village Hall
Date : 29 September 2024
Describing itself as "one of the best-loved half marathon and 10K events in Sussex", this is an event not
afraid to make bold claims. And it's justified. With awards from Racecheck and BARR (British Association of Road Races),
it's easy to see why this race has become a favourite for many.
Image provided by runbarnsgreen.org.uk
5. Richmond RunFest Half Marathon
Location : Kew Gardens, Surrey
Date : 15 September 2024
Part of the popular Richmond RunFest weekend. A start in Kew Gardens as well as a scenic route, plenty of toilets and
efficient bag drop all add to positive opinions about this popular race.
Image provided by run-fest.com
6. Great North Run
Location : The A167, Newcastle
Date : 8 September 2024
The UK's largest half marathon. Every year, 60,000 athletes and fun runners run from Newcastle to South Shields. This iconic race
is a 'bucket list' event for all distance runners.
Image provided by greatrun.org
7. Antrim Coast Half Marathon
Location : Larne Leisure Centre
Date : 25 August 2024
The Antrim Coast Half Marathon has developed into a very popular race over recent years.
It includes an elite race which attracts many of the best UK and international athletes, including
past participants, Sir Mo Farah and Lily Partridge.
Image provided by antrimcoasthalfmarathon.com
8. Mull of Kintyre Half Marathon
Location : Esplanade next to Kinloch Green
Date : May 2025
An ever-popular event. Despite typically clashing with the Edinburgh Half Marathon, this race is guaranteed to sell out in a matter of hours.
Running through the picturesque town of Campbeltown and along the amazingly scenic coastline it isn't difficult to see why. And if that's not enough,
there are post-race celebrations of Danish pastries and ceilidh dancing!
Image provided by mokrun.com
9. Cambridge Half Marathon
Location : Victoria Avenue, next to Jesus Green
Date : 9 March 2025
Cambridge has a half marathon to rival all other cities. A well-organised and popular race taking runners past a rich array of local landmarks.
Guaranteed to sell out!
Image provided by cambridgehalfmarathon.com
10. Shakespeare Half Marathon
Location : Stratford town centre
Date : 27 April 2025
Run a half marathon through the streets of Shakespeare's home town, Stratford-upon-Avon, and the surrounding countryside.
A fun event, and a great way to see this historical city.
Image provided by runthrough.co.uk
Honourable mentions
There were a few races that almost made it into our top 10, and may do so next year. These include the
Ealing Half Marathon, Edinburgh Half Marathon, Bristol Half Marathon, Eden Project Half Marathon, Isle of Harris Half Marathon and the Chester Half Marathon.
Updated : 27 July 2024