The Royal Parks Half Marathon is one of London’s most iconic road races, winding through four of the capital’s most beautiful green spaces—Hyde Park, The Green Park, St James’s Park, and Kensington Gardens—before finishing near landmark sites like Buckingham Palace. Organised by the Royal Parks Foundation, this scenic 13.1‑mile (half marathon) event offers a combination of city ambiance, beautiful parkland, and excellent race-day support.

Key Details

• Date & Time – Sunday, 11 October 2026 — race start typically around 9:00 AM

• Location – Starts and finishes on South Carriage Drive, Hyde Park, London, with an event village located there as well.

• Event Type – Road race — Half Marathon (13.1 miles / ~21.1 km)

• Organiser – Royal Parks Foundation, supporting park conservation and a wide range of UK charities.

Race Description

A one-loop route through central London’s Royal Parks, this run features a mix of serene greenery and iconic city landmarks. Runners will pass through Hyde Park, The Green Park, St James’s Park, and Kensington Gardens, with notable sights like Trafalgar Square, the London Eye, and Buckingham Palace en route – all on fully closed roads.

What’s Included

• Official finisher’s medal, optional t-shirt during registration, and race kit selection.

• Four water stations on course and ample toilets at various points and in the event village.

• Event village with bag drop, refreshments, music, and support services at the start/finish in Hyde Park.

Additional Information

• Entry Methods:

  • General entry via a public ballot.

  • Charity places are available via fundraising partners, with minimum sponsorship targets often around £350

• Age Requirement:
  Must be at least 17 years old on race day.

• Transport Notices:
  Due to planned TfL engineering works, Hyde Park Corner and Knightsbridge stations will be closed on race weekend. Runners and spectators should use alternatives like Green Park, Marble Arch, South Kensington, or Victoria, and allow extra travel time.

Sign Up (or Secure a Charity Place)
Don’t miss this chance to run one of London’s most scenic and prestigious half marathons. The Royal Parks Half Marathon, on Sunday, 11 October, promises a breathtaking course, strong support, and a memorable race experience. Enter via the ballot or secure a charity place and run for a cause!