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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. Great Scottish Run

Great Scottish Run

Location : George Square, Glasgow
Date : 4 October 2027

A scenic urban race through one of the UK's most vibrant cities, taking in the city centre and several of its stunning parks. Popular with both local and visiting runners, so sure to sell out.



2. Bath Half Marathon

Bath Half Marathon

Location : Great Pulteney Street, Bath
Date : 15 March 2027

Flat, fast, and friendly. A popular race, used by many runners as preparation 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 quickly.

3. London Landmarks Half Marathon

London Landmarks Half Marathon

Location : Whitehall
Date : 4 April 2027

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. Hosted by Tommy's, it offers runners the chance to raise money for their efforts, or support any of many other good causes. The event is 100% not-for-profit, and is always highly-rated. Celebrity-wathchers will be interested in the regular attenedance by TV and media stars, including the likes of Sophie Raworth, Aimee Fuller and A.J. Pritchard.

4. Paddock Wood Half Marathon

Paddock Wood Half Marathon

Location : Eldon Way, Paddock Wood
Date : 14 March 2027

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 mainly flat course (except for two hilly sections), it attracts both fun runners and PB-hunters alike.
Image provided by paddockwoodhalfmarathon.co.uk



5. Coast Half Marathon

Coast Half Marathon

Location : Killough, Co. Down
Date : 16 May 2026

Organised by Born2Run Events, this is a great race for those who enjoy running coastal routes. Runners will enjoy stunning scenery as well as seeing impressive local landmarks, including the St. John's Point Lighthouse.
Image provided by https://www.born2runevents.com

6. Great Manchester Run

Great Manchester Run

Location : Manchester
Date : May 2027

A sure-to-be sellout event taking runners through the street of Manchester. Every year thousands of runners and spectators fill the streets to run and cheer this popular and much-loved event.

7. Cardiff Half Marathon

Cardiff Half Marathon

Location : Cardiff Castle
Date : 4 October 2026

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.



8. Chester Half Marathon

Chester Half Marathon

Location : Chester Town Hall
Date : 16 May 2027

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.

9. Eden Project Half Marathon

Eden Project Half Marathon

Location : St Austell, Cornwall
Date : 18 October 2027

A hilly, multi-terrain, starting and finishing next to the iconic biomes of the Eden Centre. Always popular, and sure to sell out.

10. Antrim Coast Half Marathon

Antrim Coast Half Marathon

Location : Larne Leisure Centre
Date : 23 August 2026

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



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

Compiled : 29 May 2026