Autumn is a prime time for half marathons across the UK. The cooler temperatures and fantastic scenery make it ideal for runners chasing a personal best, a scenic run, or just a fun race day experience. If you’re searching for half marathons in the UK in October 2025, this guide lists the top events, key dates, and planning tips to help you pick your race.
Why Autumn Is a Great Season for Half Marathons
- Better weather: Cooler temperatures (often 8–15°C) reduce heat stress and improve performance.
- Scenic foliage: Many courses pass through parks, woodlands, and countryside that are stunning in fall colours.
- Less congestion: After peak summer, many races see fewer entries and more available spots.
- Training advantage: You can build stamina through summer and peak in Autumn.
October 2025: Key UK Half Marathon Events
Here are some of the standout half marathons happening in October 2025 across the UK.
| Date | Race | Location / Notes | Highlights & Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 October 2025 | Run Dorney 5K / 10K / Half Marathon | Dorney Lake, Buckinghamshire | Flat, chip‑timed, ideal for PB attempts. Entry ~£34. |
| 5 October 2025 | Kingston Half & 10K | Kingston upon Thames | One of the earlier October options. |
| 5 October 2025 | Lincoln Half Marathon | Lincolnshire | Good option in the East Midlands. |
| 5 October 2025 | Tonbridge Half Marathon (and 10K & 5K) | Kent | A more local race for Kent / SE runners. |
| 11 October 2025 | AEPG Great Eastern Run (Half) | Peterborough | Part of a larger event with multiple distances. |
| 11 October 2025 | Aberfoyle Festival Trail Half | Aberfoyle, Scotland | Trail or mixed terrain — scenic and more rugged. |
| 12 October 2025 | Royal Parks Half Marathon | London | One of the marquee central London halfs. Route through Hyde Park, The Green Park, St James’s, Kensington Gardens. |
| 12 October 2025 | Manchester Half Marathon | Manchester, Greater Manchester | Popular northern option. |
| 12 October 2025 | Oxford Half | Oxford | Flat, scenic course — good for fast times. |
| 18 October 2025 | Battersea Park Running Festival (inc Half) | London (Battersea Park) | A city‑park race, easier logistics for Londoners. |
| 18 October 2025 | Carsington Water Half Marathon & 10K | Derbyshire | More rural / outdoors, good for countryside runners. |
| 19 October 2025 | Rugby Half Marathon | Rugby, Warwickshire | Midlands option mid‑October. |
| 19 October 2025 | Autumn Blickling Half Marathon | Aylsham, Norfolk | East of England trail / rural option. |
| 25–26 October 2025 | Monsal Trail October Half Marathon & 10K | Bakewell, Derbyshire | Trail / converted railway path—a scenic, gentler gradient route. |
| 26 October 2025 | Maidenhead Half Marathon | Maidenhead, Berkshire | Late‑October option close to London with relatively flat terrain. |
| 26 October 2025 | Stevenage Half Marathon | Stevenage, Hertfordshire | Local for Herts / North London region. |
⚠️ This calendar is not exhaustive — many smaller local halfs, trail events, or charity runs may be scheduled. Always verify via official race websites before planning.
Planning Tips for October Half Marathons in the UK
1. Book Early & Monitor Deadlines
Many popular races (especially in London or bigger cities) fill up fast. Be ready when registration opens.
2. Choose based on terrain & elevation
If your goal is a fast time, prioritize flat road courses (e.g., Dorney, Oxford, Maidenhead). For scenic or more challenging runs, choose trails or rural routes (Aberfoyle, Monsal Trail).
3. Consider travel & logistics
For races in big cities (like Royal Parks, Manchester), public transport and road closures will be key. For rural events, check parking, access, and accommodation.
4. Train for the conditions
Autumn in the UK can bring wind, rain, and muddy paths. Incorporate some wet-weather runs in training, and invest in moisture-wicking layers and waterproof gear.
5. Pacing & recovery
Cooler weather can fool you into going out too fast. Make sure to pace yourself especially in the first half. After the race, have warm clothes and a recovery plan (nutrition, stretching).
6. Charity / ballot places
High-demand races often offer charity or ballot entries. This is common for events like Royal Parks.
