The top 10 UK half marathons in 2024

So you want to race a half marathon in 2024, but you’re not sure which one to go for? The UK really is spoilt for choice when it comes to half marathons, with an incredible range of legendary city races, scenic road routes, and gnarly trails. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best across the country.

Still not convinced? Here are a few reasons to sign up for that race:

• For some, the full marathon is the ultimate bucket-list event. But not everyone can commit the amount of time needed to train. The half marathon is a very manageable distance that any runner can aim for.
• It’s a great intermediate distance between shorter 10 kilometre races and the marathon.
• Race places are generally easy to get hold of as long as you’re reasonably organised.

• A half marathon is challenging, and crossing the finishing line will give you a huge sense of achievement!

Without further ado, here are our top picks for half marathons in 2024

Big City Classics

These major city halfs are like a giant runners’ party, where thousands of people come together to chase their dreams. The excitement of the crowds is infectious, and you get to run through the streets of the UK’s greatest cities alongside some of the best professional runners in the world.

If you’re chasing a new PB, these are often the fastest courses: nice and flat, wide roads, and plenty of other runners and spectators to spur you on. If you’re just looking to soak up the atmosphere or experience your first half marathon, these races will definitely not disappoint.

Most of these races fill up fast, and although places aren’t as hard to come by as for a marathon, you’ll need to sign up as early as you can. If you’ve missed out on a spot, take a look to see if any charity places are still available.

London Landmarks

London (England), 7 April 2024

This extra-special course starts on Pall Mall and takes you through the centre of London past multiple landmarks, from St. Paul's Cathedral and the Shard to the London Eye and Big Ben. Signs along the route teach you about the history of the different monuments, and the rave tunnel and live singing will keep your mind off your tired feet!

Number of finishers in 2023: 17,162

Cut-off time: 4 hours

Great North Run

Newcastle (England), 8 September 2024

The AJ Bell Great North Run is the world’s biggest half marathon, with over 60,000 runners taking on the 13.1-mile route from Newcastle to South Shields each year. It’s famous for its supportive crowds, inclusive atmosphere, and unbeatable on-route entertainment. The startline is packed with great running legends: in 2023, Mo Farah (six-time Great North Run champion) took to the streets of Newcastle to compete in his last ever half marathon.

Number of finishers in 2023: 60,000

Cut-off time: No official cut-off. A race sweep vehicle travels at a 17-minute-mile pace, and if you fall behind this vehicle, you will be asked to complete the remainder of the course on the pavement. 

Cardiff Half Marathon

Cardiff (Wales), 6 October 2024

The Cardiff Half Marathon has been steadily growing in popularity and notoriety in recent years. It’s the UK’s third-biggest race and is broadcast live on the BBC. It’s also part of the SuperHalfs challenge, where you have 60 months to complete a series of six European half marathons to win a prestigious medal. The flat, fast course passes all of the city’s most breathtaking scenery and iconic landmarks, including Cardiff Castle, the Principality Stadium, the Civic Centre, and stunning Cardiff Bay.

Number of finishers in 2023: 20,108

Cut-off time: 4 hours 30 minutes

Great Scottish Run

Glasgow (Scotland), 6 October 2024

The course starts in George Square in the city centre before taking runners past some of Glasgow's finest venues and buildings. The AJ Bell Great Scottish Run takes competitors on a journey through the history of the town, past impressive urban architecture and beautiful green spaces. Glaswegians are notorious for their friendliness and enthusiasm, and the huge crowds that line the route are some of the best supporters around.

Number of finishers in 2023: 20,000

Cut-off time: No official cut-off. A race sweep vehicle travels at a 17-minute-mile pace, and if you fall behind this vehicle, you will be asked to complete the remainder of the course on the pavement. 

Scenic road routes

The next half marathons on our list may not be the fastest road races, but they’ll certainly blow you away with their beauty. From famous peaks to stunning stretches of coast, you’ll discover some of the most enchanting landscapes in the land.

Bournemouth Half Marathon

Bournemouth (England), 13 October 2024

This is a great half marathon that explores the coast around Bournemouth. The course is a combination of flat roads and scenic ocean views. The route takes in both Boscombe and Bournemouth Piers and lets you soak up the seaside atmosphere.

Number of finishers in 2023: 766

Cut-off time: 3 hours 15 minutes

Antrim Coast Half Marathon

Larne (Northern Ireland), 25 August 2024

This is an extra-fast and flat half marathon course along the iconic Antrim Coast Road. The majestic ocean views are world-famous and have featured in many movies and television series, including HBO’s Game of Thrones.

Number of finishers in 2023: 4000

Cut-off time: 3 hours 

Skye Half Marathon

Isle of Skye (Scotland), 8 June 2024

The beautiful, remote Isle of Skye is the largest and northernmost of the major islands in the Inner Hebrides and home to some of Scotland’s most incredible landscapes. Starting and finishing in Portree, you’ll run alongside breathtaking ocean scenery and through picturesque local villages. The race is also famous for its friendly welcome and inclusive atmosphere.

Number of finishers in 2023: 462

Cut-off time: 3 hours | Elevation gain: 258 metres

Solway Half Marathon

Cumbria (England), 2 June 2024

Experience gorgeous scenery in the Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty as you run from Anthorn to Bowness-on-Solway along rural country roads, and then back to Anthorn along the coast. This is a fast, flat course, ideal for those looking to achieve a PB in a beautiful setting. 

Number of finishers in 2023: 250

Cut-off time: 3 hours

Trail half marathons

If you’re more drawn to trail running, there are some fantastic courses around the UK featuring spectacular views and diverse terrain. Even though these races have added technical difficulty, they can still be a great option for slower recreational runners. They’re often more low-key than their road equivalents, with relaxed and friendly atmospheres.

Snowdonia Trail Half Marathon

Llanberis (Wales), July 14 2024

This is one of the UK’s most challenging trail races and a must for all thrill-seeking off-roaders in search of epic views. The half marathon route packs in over 1000 m of elevation along tough, technical trails and summits Snowdon, Wales’ highest peak. 

Number of finishers in 2023: 429

Cut-off time: You have 5 hours 30 minutes to reach the cut-off point at 11 miles | Elevation gain: 1,192 metres

Needles Half Marathon

Isle of Wight (England), 9 June 2024

This is one of the toughest and most breathtaking half marathons in the country. The route takes you over downs and heathland, past historic monuments, and the Needles, a row of three chalk stacks that rise out of the sea on the west coast of the Isle of Wight. This is a welcoming, small-scale race, perfect for discovering this magnificent part of England.

Number of finishers in 2023: 284

Cut-off time: 3 hours 30 minutes | Elevation gain: 262 metres

Take your pick

Whether you're a seasoned racer or a recreational runner looking to check off your first ever race, running a half marathon is a memorable and even life-changing experience. It’s important to choose an event that will give you the experience that you’re looking for.

Now that you’ve seen what’s on offer, all that’s left is to choose your race and get training!