Whether you are new to running or have years of experience, the half marathon is a great opportunity to test your limits and experience the competitive and festive environment of a distance race, without committing to a full marathon. While the distance may seem daunting, many training plans are available (on Runnea!) to keep you on track, and the race-day environment of a large half marathon is unbeatable. We have compiled a list of seven of the top half marathons in the UK, in no particular order, that you absolutely need to register for.
Wizz Air Cardiff Half Marathon (October)
The iconic Cardiff Half Marathon was founded in 2003, and is organised by Run 4 Wales. This year the race took place on the 2nd of October, and raised over 20 million pounds supporting more than 100 charities. The Cardiff Half also has a strong elite athlete presence, with Kenya's Goeffrey Koech and Beatrice Cheserek winning the men’s and women’s races. The 2023 race will be taking place on the 1st of October, and its flat course is perfect for hitting your personal best time.
Great North Run (September)
The Great North Run is the world's biggest half marathon, with 60,000 runners participating this past year. From Central Newcastle to South Shields, it is known for its enthusiastic spectators and charity partnership. The 2023 race will be taking place on the 10th of September, and offers unbeatable resources such as a membership option for priority registration and app for live tracking on race day. Mini and junior running events are also available for future half marathoners, as well as a wheelchair race.
Royal Parks Half (October)
The Royal Parks Half is perfect for those who want to see world-famous landmarks and experience running central London without having to worry about traffic. It passes through Hyde Park, The Green Park, St. James’s Park and Kensington Gardens. The 16th year of the race will be taking place on the 8th of October, 2023, and brings in 16,000 participants. The Royal Parks Half is viewed as one of the most beautiful half marathons in the world, giving runners views of Trafalgar Square, The London Eye, and Buckingham Palace. This run is perfect for London visitors and natives alike! Registration for 2023 is open now.
The Big Half (September)
The Big Half, a relatively new race, is only in its 5th year yet has already made a big impact on the British running scene. The 2022 race had over 12,500 participants, and offered 3 distance options; the Big Half, the Big Mile, and the New Balance Big Relay (a team of 4, with each participant running 5k). The Big Half champions diversity with their “we run as one” campaign, opening up conversation and making running accessible for all. They do this through their official charity partner The Felix Project, a charity which supplies meals to people who are struggling including families, children, the homeless, and refugees. They also provide a free training plan and are very open about their sustainability efforts, publishing an environmental impact report and data about their emissions and waste management.
Scottish Half Marathon (September)
The Scottish Half Marathon starts just outside Edinburgh and will take place on a flat and fast course along the East Lothian Golf Coast on the 24th of September, 2023. Their official charity is Macmillan Cancer Support, and runners can register with a charity entry for free and fundraise for the charity of their choice. Participants receive exclusive perks such as event baggage facilities and energy gel on route, along with their finisher’s t-shirt and pack. The Scottish Half Marathon has also been praised for its efficient organization and safety. This race is perfect for those who want to hit a fast time while also running on beautiful coastal roads.
Great Manchester Run (May)
The Great Manchester Run offers both a half marathon and 10k distance, and the 20th year of the race will be taking place on the 21st of May, 2023. This fast and flat race offers participants a free training plan, and has music and entertainment zones at every kilometre. Charity entries can be secured by raising sponsorship money for a variety of partner charities including Cancer Research UK, The Bobby Moore Fund, and the British Heart Foundation. The Great Manchester Run has the same organisers as the Great North Run, and has well established year-round resources for runners such as personalised training plans based on your experience and goals and virtual running challenges.
Hackney Half Marathon (May)
The Hackney Half Marathon takes racers through London’s East End, and this high-energy festival will be taking place from the 19th-21st of May, 2023, with the half marathon on the 21st. It is known for its unique entertainment for both spectators and racers, with diverse musicians, vibrant street art, and more throughout the race. There is also a 5k option for those who do not wish to run the entire half marathon distance, but still want to participate in the electric environment of the Hackney Half. The official charity partner of the Hackney Half is the Alzheimer's Society. Organised by LimeLight Sports Club, the Hackney Half is one of the largest half marathons in the UK, bringing in 15,000 runners annually.
No matter where you are located in the UK, there are great half marathon options available. So what are you waiting for? Register now!
Read more news about: Running News
