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Top Ten Half Marathons in the UK

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. Bath Half Marathon

Bath Half Marathon

Location : Royal Avenue, Bath
Date : 15 March 2026

Flat, fast, and friendly. A popular race, used by many runners training for the London Marathon. And if you like Georgian architecture, you'll see plenty of it along the way. Always popular, and sure to fill up.



2. Paddock Wood Half Marathon

Paddock Wood Half Marathon

Location : Eldon Way, Paddock Wood
Date : 8 March 2026

Always well attended by club runners. Like most races organised by the local running club, this event typically attracts high praise for being well-organised and trouble free. And with great scenery and a predominantly flat course (except for two hilly sections), it attracts both fun runners and PB-hunters alike.
Image provided by paddockwoodhalfmarathon.co.uk

3. London Landmarks Half Marathon

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, and is always highly-rated.

4. Cardiff Half Marathon

Cardiff Half Marathon

Location : Cardiff Castle
Date : 5 October 2025

The most popular 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, especially as it is now one of the exclusive 'SuperHalfs', this is a must-do race for many runners.



5. Farnborough Winter Half Marathon

Farnborough Half Marathon

Location : Farnborough, Hants
Date : 8 February 2026

"A Brisk 13.1 Miles at the Home of British Aviation". This winter half marathon jokingly describes itself as "the coolest race in the UK". Winter conditions are no barrier to those running this 13.1 miler, with numerous athletes reporting impressive race times, including course records in 2025.
Image provided by farnboroughhalf.co.uk

6. Worksop Halloween Half Marathon

Worksop Halloween Half Marathon

Location : Clumber Park, Worksop
Date : 26 October 2025

Based at Clumber Park, a popular local race venue, the Worksop Halloween Half Marathon is organised by local running club, Worksop Harriers & AC. This celebration of Halloween always sells out. And with numbers reduced post-COVID, we strongly advise signing up well in advance.



7. Skye Half Marathon

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

8. Royal Parks Half Marathon

Royal Parks Half Marathon

Location : Hyde Park, London
Date : 12 Oct 2025

One of London's premier half marathons. We've never been lucky enough to run it, but know plenty of those who have, and they all speak highly of it. With a fast route and great crowds, it easily deserves its high rating.
Image provided by royalparkshalf.com

9. Antrim Coast Half Marathon

Antrim Coast Half Marathon

Location : Larne Leisure Centre
Date : 24 August 2025

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

10. Chester Half Marathon

Chester Half Marathon

Location : Chester Town Hall
Date : 17 May 2026

A flat race, on closed roads, with excellent crowd support and a finishing line outside the impressive Town Hall and Cathedral contribute to a race that is applauded by many. Plenty of drink stations and an excellent goody bag add to an already impressive event.



Honourable mentions
There were a few races that almost made it into our top 10, and may do so next year. These include the Windsor Half Marathon, Ealing Half Marathon, Coventry Half Marathon, Bristol Half Marathon, Eden Project Half Marathon, Snowdonia Half Marathon, The Big Half and one on our bucket list, the Coigach Half Marathon.

Compiled : 1 June 2025