Can’t wait until the London marathon 2027? You can still sign up to these UK running events.
After watching the 2026 London Marathon, many of us will have been inspired to try running — from seasoned runners to those who’ve never so much as jogged on the treadmill. The outward displays of love between family and friends, as well as the sheer perseverance of the elite runners, did much to convince a lot of people that running truly brings us together, whatever our athletic ability.
But while you’re waiting for the 2027 iteration of the TCS London Marathon, why not sign up to one of the UK’s next upcoming events: from 5Ks to ultra-marathons. Here, we round up our top picks.
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RunThrough Women’s Run Heaton Park
To celebrate the growing community of women runners, RunThrough also hosts a series of running events specifically for women.
All the runners and event team are women — ensuring it’s a safe, unifying and powerful space for all. Distances covered are 5km and 10km — great for those in the infancy of their running journey who want to get involved without taking on a marathon.
When? 17 May 2026
Cost? £32 for the 5km, £34 for the 10km
Distance? 5km or 10km
Visit RunThrough to learn more
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New Balance Big Relay
Set on the same track as the Big Half, this event is split into four approximately 5km events, making it ideal for a group of friends, family members or colleagues.
The course starts at Tower Bridge and finishes next to the Cutty Sark. Those who finish receive a T-shirt, medal and full bragging rights — an ideal late-summer day out.
When? 6 September 2026
Cost? £60 for a team of four
Distance? 21km
Visit Let’s Do This to find out more
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Ultra 13 Valleys Ultra
Fair warning: this race is only suitable for experienced runners. The 13 Valleys Ultra offers four running distances; 22km, 55km, 110km and an eye-watering 180km. The main motivator for the event is that the longer the distance you choose, the more Lake District valley’s you’ll get to see, so it’s not a bad deal.
For now, the only event with spaces left is the 22km run, which heads through Thirlmere, Borrowdale and Bassenthwaite and ends in Keswick.
When? 25-27 September 2026
Cost? £70 for 22km
Distance? 22km up to 180km
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London Landmarks Half Marathon
This half-marathon, as the name suggests, passes some of London’s most iconic landmarks, including Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Royal Courts of Justice.
The closed-road event sets off from Whitehall and heads down to Embankment — nice flat ground — meaning the beginning of the route, at least, should be a breeze.
When? 4 April 2027
Cost? £25 race registration free + ballot entry fee
Distance? Half-marathon
Find out more at London Landmarks Half Marathon
Hackney Quarter
This is a real night out with a difference. Setting off in Hackney Wick, the race begins at 7pm and journeys through east London before finishing with an afterparty hosted at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
There are no finisher medals at this event but a free beer is promised at the finish line.
When? 14 May 2026
Cost? £45
Distance? 10km
Feature image: Pexels
