Why Autumn is a Great Time to Run
Autumn in the UK offers cooler temperatures, vivid scenery, fewer midges (usually), and a wide variety of events, from city half‑marathons to trail runs. Whether you’re chasing a PB or just hunting for a fun, scenic run, here’s a guide to some of the standout events in Autumn 2025.
Top UK Events in Autumn 2025
Here are some of the best running events between September and November 2025. Mix of 5Ks up to marathons, road and trail, all different vibes.
| Date | Event | Distance / Type | Highlights / Why Go |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early September | Great North Run | Half Marathon | One of the UK’s most iconic half‑marathons between Newcastle and South Shields. Big atmosphere. |
| Mid‑September | Chase the Sun – Battersea Park 5K & 10K | 5K & 10K | A fun evening race in London, good short distance choice as summer ends. |
| September 21 | Richmond Park Half | Half Marathon | Beautiful park course, great for those who prefer green spaces over traffic‑free roads. |
| Late September | Delamere Forest Half Marathon & 10K | Half & 10K Trail | Trail runners, this one for you – woods, scenic, more rugged underfoot. |
| October 4 | Victoria Park 5K, 10K & Half Marathon | Mixed distances, road/park | In London, accessible, good variety. |
| October 5 | Thames Meander Autumn Marathon & Half Marathon | Marathon & Half (towpath/trail‑road mix) | Flat, scenic river‑side route, good for both long distance and half effort. |
| October 26 | Richmond Park Half (another date) | Half Marathon | If you can’t make September, this gives you another chance. |
| November 2 | Delamere Forest Half Marathon & Marathon | Half & Marathon | More rustic trails, a chance for a longer challenge before winter fully sets in. |
| November 16 | Windsor Trail Run Autumn | 6K, 10K & Half Marathon | Gorgeous scenery: Thames Path, trails, ending near Windsor Castle. Great for a relaxed but rewarding run. |
Choosing the Right Race for You
To get the most out of autumn races, here are things to think about:
- Distance vs. Terrain – Decide whether you want a road race or trail. Trails can be more beautiful but require different footwear and might be muddier in autumn.
- Weather & Daylight – Autumn days get shorter. Evening races might be early dusk; daylight hours drop off. Be prepared with reflective clothing, head torches if needed.
- Recovery & Build‑Up – If you’re targeting a longer distance (half or full marathon), plan your training so you’re fit but not peaking in cold weather. Autumn is great for building base strength.
- Race Atmosphere – Big city events like the Great North Run bring crowds and spectacle. Smaller or trail runs tend to be calmer and more scenic.
- Logistics – Travel, accommodation, transport links – if you’re travelling to the race, book early. Some autumn races attract many runners, especially in popular locations.
Autumn Running Tips (UK)
- Gear up: waterproofs, layers, gloves. Autumn weather is unpredictable – rain, wind, even sunshine can vary in a single run.
- Footwear choice matters: trails require grippy shoes; roads might be damp/slippy.
- Fuel & Hydration: Even when cool, longer distances need fuelling. Net effect of cold means you might feel less thirsty – but still need water.
- Watch the leaves: wet leaves can be slippery, especially on bridges, wooden walkways, etc.
- Visibility: dusk and dawn are darker earlier – reflective gear, lights help.
Why These Events Stand Out
- They offer varied distances so whether you’re just getting back into running or pushing up to marathon distance, there are choices.
- Many are in scenic or cultural settings (parks, rivers, historic towns) so the run doubles as an experience.
- They’re spread across the UK, so if you want something local or are ready to travel, you have options in England, Wales, etc.
Conclusion
If you’re planning your autumn racing calendar, these 2025 UK events give you a solid mix of challenge and scenery. Early networking, clever planning, and dressing for the weather will let you enjoy the season, and maybe set that PB you’ve been chasing.
