10K runs UK 2024: calendar of the best races

The 10K (or 6.2 miles) is a perfect racing distance for runners of all abilities, and there’s no wonder it’s the most popular running event in the UK. For beginners, a 10K is the chance to push yourself further, and for seasoned runners, it is an opportunity to propel your speed and endurance to dazzling new heights. 

Preparing for a 10K needn’t take over your life in the same way that marathon training can; with a structured plan, anyone can perform and enjoy this distance. It can also be a stepping stone for athletes planning to do a full or half marathon.

The startline of a 10K is a beautiful gathering of runners of all abilities, united in their love for the sport. With hundreds of races organised across the country every year, there’s bound to be one taking place near you. 

We take a look at ten of the best 10K events taking place in 2024.

Great Birmingham 10K

Birmingham (England), 4 May 2024

The Great Birmingham Run is the Midlands’ biggest running event, with thousands of runners taking to the streets to participate in the 10K and half-marathon races. The city comes alive for the event, with spectators lining the course, entertainment on every corner, and celebrations on the finish line. A pre-race party on the startline in Centenary Square sets the scene for the race before runners set off on a scenic loop past some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Library of Birmingham, Grand Central, and the Mailbox.

The 2024 event has already taken place. The Great Bristol 10K will be back on 4 May 2025.

Find out more about the Great Birmingham 10K

Great Bristol 10K

Bristol (England), 19 May 2024

Thousands of runners descend on Bristol every year to take part in the 10K and half-marathon races. The scenic 10K route starts in the town centre before taking a tour past some of the city's most iconic landmarks, including the harbour and the Clifton Suspension Bridge, before climaxing majestically in Millennium Square. The course is fast and flat, making it perfect for both runners chasing down a shiny new PB and those who are completing their very first 10K. 

This year’s race is now full. Keep an eye on their website so that you don’t miss out on a place in next year’s Great Bristol 10K.

Find out more about the Great Bristol 10K

Great Manchester Run

Manchester (England), 26 May 2024

The Great Manchester Run is one of the largest running events in Europe, with over 30,000 participants and even more spectators taking to the streets of Manchester. The festivities are spread out over the whole weekend, with a half-marathon taking place on the same day as the 10K. Runners visit landmarks such as Old Trafford, the Imperial War Museum, and The Lowry amidst the party-like atmosphere that takes over the city, including live music and entertainment zones at every turn. 

Sign up for the Great Manchester Run

Great North 10K

Newcastle (England), 7 July 2024

The Great North 10k is a fantastic course through Newcastle city centre. The event boasts a vibrant atmosphere, with endless entertainment stands and incredible support from the crowds. The race starts on the famous Great North Run start line, before a loop across the iconic Tyne Bridge and a tour of some of the city’s best landmarks, including The Sage, Grey’s Monument, Eldon Square, Newcastle Civic Centre, Haymarket, and the Great North Museum. A grandstand finish awaits on the town moor, where post-event celebrations will round off your incredible experience. 

Sign up for the Great North 10K

The London 10K

London (England), 14 July 2024

Dive into the streets of London for a summery tour of the city. The London 10K boasts live bands, DJs, and huge crowds of cheering fans to help boost your legs as you run past Westminster Bridge, the London Eye, Regent Street, Piccadilly Circus, and Big Ben. This is a wonderful, lively event that shows off the very best of the UK’s capital.

Sign up for the London 10K

Cardiff 10K

Cardiff (Wales), 1 September 2024

Cardiff 10K was founded in 1986 and takes you on a fabulous sightseeing tour of the city, including Cardiff Castle and the Principality Stadium. The race goes through the heart of central Cardiff, over the River Taff, and past Pontcanna Fields before passing Sophia Gardens, the home of Welsh cricket, and culminating in a grand finish in the Edwardian Civic Centre.

The event takes place just over a month before the renowned Cardiff Half Marathon and is therefore perfectly timed for runners preparing to move onto the longer distance.

Sign up for the Cardiff 10K

Swansea Bay 10K

Swansea (Wales), 15 September 2024

The ever-popular Swansea Bay 10K is back for its 43rd edition. The flat and fast course takes place across the magnificent Swansea Bay and is a perfect introductory 10K for beginners or an excellent opportunity for regular racers to improve their PB. The event has a brilliant family-oriented atmosphere and great support from the crowds. 

Sign up for the Swansea Bay 10K

Vitality London 10,000 

London (England), 22 September 2024

This is another wonderful race set in the heart of the UK’s capital city. Runners pass iconic landmarks including Nelson’s Column, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Big Ben before coming to a royal finish in front of Buckingham Palace in St. James’s Park. 

Sign up for the Vitality London 10,000 here

Great Scottish Run

Glasgow (Scotland), 6 October 2024

Glasgow knows how to put on a good show, and the Great Scottish Run is a testament to the city’s energy and hospitality. The event attracts around 10,000 runners each year, with the route featuring some of Glasgow’s finest sights, including The Hydro, Pacific Quay, and the McLennan Arch. Expect bagpipes, drumming bands, and raucous encouragement from the crowds as you wind through the city’s streets and across the River Clyde.

Sign up for the Great Scottish Run

Leeds Abbey Dash

Leeds (England), 13 October 2024

The Leeds Abbey Dash is a great autumn race with high PB potential thanks to its fast and flat course. The startline is in the city centre, then the course heads out along the River Aire to the impressive Kirkstall Abbey before retracing its steps back to Millennium Square. With over 10,000 runners, a great atmosphere, and an epic course, this is definitely a date for your racing diary.

Sign up for the Leeds Abbey Dash

Join our community of runners and get exclusive discounts!