Half Marathon Running Events Across the UK
The half marathon is a classic running milestone; a true test of endurance, preparation, and commitment. Whether you’re stepping up from a 10K or building toward a full marathon, the 13.1-mile distance offers a challenge that’s tough but achievable. With scenic routes, city circuits, and charity runs happening all over the UK, there’s never been a better time to find your next half marathon.
Upcoming Half Marathons in the UK
Ready to take on 13.1 miles? Explore our calendar of upcoming half marathon events across the UK, from famous races to hidden gems.
Birmingham Running Festival
The Innocent Half Marathon
Jones o Gymru Anglesey Half Marathon and 10k
Taunton Half Marathon
London Landmarks Half Marathon
Shropshire Way 80K Festival
AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run
Great Bristol Run
Edinburgh Marathon Festival
AJ Bell Great Manchester Run
Snowdonia Trail Marathon Eryri
Solihull Running Festival
Shrewsbury Half Marathon & Metric Half Marathon
The Big Half
Richmond Run-Fest
AJ Bell Great North Run
Morecambe Marathon, Half Marathon & 10k
Run Aintree 5K, 10K & Half Marathon
Manchester Half
Cardiff Half Marathon
Royal Parks Half Marathon
Anglesey Trail Half Marathon & 10K
Types of Half Marathon Events
There’s a half marathon for every kind of runner. Choose the event that suits your training and goals:
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Major City Half Marathons
Large-scale events like the Great North Run and Cardiff Half attract tens of thousands of runners and supporters.
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Scenic & Trail Half Marathons
Swap the pavement for parks, hills, and countryside. Expect views, peace, and a few extra elevation challenges.
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Charity Half Marathons
Raise money for a cause close to your heart, many events offer charity entry places with support and perks.
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Night or Festival Half Marathons
Run at sunset or as part of weekend running festivals; a fun, community-focused vibe.
Why Run a Half Marathon?
Push yourself further than ever before, 13.1 miles is a huge achievement
Join thousands of others in the UK’s most iconic running events
Excellent milestone for those training toward a marathon
Many events include medals, shirts, and amazing crowd support
Half Marathon Training & Preparation
Becoming a half marathoner takes effort, but it’s more than doable with the right plan:
Training: Aim for a 10–14 week plan including long runs and recovery weeks
Shoes & Kit: Invest in quality shoes and comfortable race-day gear
Nutrition: Learn when to eat, hydrate, and use gels if needed
Mindset: Focus on pacing and trust your training
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I train for a half marathon?
Most runners need 10–14 weeks of consistent training.
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What’s a typical half marathon time?
Average finish times range from 1hr 45min to 2hr 30min, but completion is the goal!
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Do I need to run the whole thing?
Walk/run strategies are perfectly acceptable, many events welcome all paces.
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Can I run a half marathon as a beginner?
Yes, as long as you build up slowly and train properly, half marathons are beginner-friendly.
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Are there cut-off times?
Some races do have cut-offs (e.g. 3 hours), so check before signing up.
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