Running a marathon, half marathon, or ultra-marathon is no small feat - it’s a true test of endurance, and just by signing up, you’re showing you’ve got a certain amount of grit and determination. Whether you’re chasing a personal best, ticking it off your bucket list, or just there to cheer others on, the UK offers some of the most memorable and rewarding races out there.
If you’re ready to push yourself to the max and experience the thrill of crossing that finish line, join CrossCountry as we explore the best marathons in the UK.
Best marathons to run in the UK
The journey to running a full 26.2 miles isn't easy. However, if you have the right mindset and the right training plan, it’s not only achievable but also immensely satisfying. Why not consider running for charity? Running for a good cause can help you focus on the end goal and may even be helpful in reducing mental roadblocks along the way.
These are some of the coolest marathons to run up and down the UK, chosen for their rewarding routes, favourable terrains, and their incredible atmosphere and crowd support.
Manchester Marathon
The Manchester Marathon has the UK’s flattest course, making it a perfect choice for chasing a new personal best. In fact, Many consider it a great option for a first marathon, due to its forgiving course. The event is held annually in April, with the next one coming up in 2027. The 2026 Manchester Marathon was a real success, with several world records being broken – including the record for fastest time running in a saree! The event raised over £4 million for charity and plans to come back bigger and better than ever next year.
You can travel to Manchester Piccadilly with CrossCountry from destinations like Birmingham New Street and Bristol Temple Meads. We recommend checking the Manchester Marathon website for specific travel advice on the day of the marathon.
Edinburgh Marathon
The Edinburgh Marathon takes place as part of the Edinburgh Marathon Festival in May, which also includes junior races, a half marathon, and the Hairy Haggis Team Relay! The Edinburgh route takes you along some of Edinburgh’s most famous streets and past spectacular sights, including Greyfriars Kirkyard, Edinburgh Castle, and many more of Edinburgh’s famous landmarks. As you continue, the course leads to the bracing coastline before looping back to the finish line in Musselburgh.
The nearest station to the race is Edinburgh Waverley, which is about a mile from the start line at Potterrow.
New Forest Marathon
Held in September, the New Forest Marathon has got to be one of the most naturally beautiful routes in the UK. The route meanders through New Forest National Park, with all its secluded woodland trails and open countryside. It’s an ideal route for trail runners.
Established in 1983, the New Forest Marathon has managed to maintain its community spirit despite impressive growth in participants and sponsorship. Their sister event, The Chase Trail Run, which takes place at St Giles House, also attracts thousands of runners each year. This race adds an extra challenge in the last 100m, where the fastest participant can win a prize, meaning wherever you’re placed, you can still be a winner!
The closest station to the New Forest Marathon is Brockenhurst, which you can reach with CrossCountry from stations like Southampton Central, Reading, and Winchester.
Yorkshire Marathon
Yorkshire Marathon takes place in October and winds through the street of York, which, in autumn, means orange and red trees and a cool breeze. You’ll pass by some of York’s beautiful attractions like York Minster, and then into the countryside past Buttercrambe Moor Wood.
The marathon starts at the University of York and loops right back around to the same area. The route is known to be flat and fast, making it ideal for all levels of runners. There are services to York with CrossCountry from various locations, including Newcastle, Bristol Temple Meads, and Leeds..
Portsmouth Coastal Marathon
The Portsmouth Coastal Marathon is an outlier among other running events in that it takes place in festive December. Armed with your circular scarf and base layers, you’ll run along Langstone Harbour, a place that’s particularly atmospheric during the colder months. Overall, the marathon experience here is accented by friendliness and community, with plenty of volunteers and supporters to help you reach the finish line.
Best Half Marathons in the UK
Completing a half marathon is an incredible achievement and the perfect way to cement yourself as a serious runner. The following half marathons are uniquely popular for their own reasons, and each will prove an exciting challenge.
Great North Run
The Great North Run takes place annually in Newcastle in September and currently holds the title of the largest half marathon in the world. Beginning in 1981 as more of a fun run, the race has grown exponentially and is now enjoyed by thousands of fundraisers and PB chasers.
The Great North Run begins on the A167, near Claremont Road and passes some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the towering Tyne Bridge and Gateshead International Stadium. The route culminates in a home stretch at South Shields.
To reach the Great North Run by train you can travel to Newcastle station with CrossCountry.
Cheltenham Half Marathon
Cheltenham Half Marathon takes place in September, starting and finishing at Cheltenham Racecourse. The run is uniquely beautiful, designed to take you past some of the best sights in Cheltenham, including the town hall, Pittville Pump Room, and the University of Gloucestershire.
Alongside the half marathon, a 10km run also takes place, as well as a community mile. This means that the event makes for a great day out for a range of abilities. Once you’ve completed the run, be sure to stop by one of Cheltenham’s many restaurants for a celebratory meal.
The Great Birmingham Run
The Great Birmingham Run happens every May. In 2026, the half marathon route starts at Centenary Square and finishes at the event village in Aston University. Designed to offer the best of Birmingham to runners, you’ll run through the Jewellery Quarter, scenic Cannon Hill Park, and past Edgbaston Cricket Ground. You’ll be accompanied by live music and cheery supporters along the way, making for an electric atmosphere.
To reach the Great Birmingham Run by train, Birmingham New Street station offers excellent connections across the UK and is within easy walking distance of the start and finish areas.
The Robin Hood Half Marathon
The Robin Hood Half Marathon also occurs in the cooler autumn month of September. Taking place in Nottingham, the route rewards participants with views of Nottingham Castle, the River Trent, and Wollaton Park. It’s a single lap that loops back to the Victoria Embankment.
You can catch a train to Nottingham Station with CrossCountry from various locations, including Derby and Birmingham New Street. It’s a fifteen-minute walk to Victoria Embankment from the station.
Cardiff Half Marathon
Cardiff Half Marathon is described as ‘fast, flat, and scenic’ making it the ideal course for seasoned runners to beat their PB or for first-timers to challenge themselves. The race takes place in October and showcases some of the most stunning landmarks in Cardiff, including Cardiff Castle, the Wales Millennium Centre, and Cardiff Bay.
To reach the Cardiff Half Marathon by train, Cardiff Central has excellent connections throughout the UK. With CrossCountry, you can travel from key locations, such as Newport, Birmingham New Street, and even as far as Edinburgh Waverley.
Whether you're aiming to conquer your first half marathon or add another medal to your collection, these events require considered preparation, so be sure to plan ahead and train safely.
Best Ultra Marathons in the UK
Completing an ultra-marathon might seem like an unattainable goal, reserved for hardcore runners and elite athletes. But here’s a surprising fact: ultra-marathons were originally designed with hikers in mind. Unlike the pace of a road marathon, ultra-marathons often have a slower, more relaxed rhythm, where walking long stretches is not just normal but encouraged.
What truly sets ultra-runners apart is mental toughness. If you're considering signing up, be sure to invest time in researching safety tips, training plans, nutrition, hydration, and everything else you’ll need to tackle the challenge with confidence and preparedness.
Thames Trail Ultra
The Thames Trail Ultra, previously known as the Thames Trot, is 48 miles of quietly beautiful scenery. The race takes place in October and follows along the Thames Path and Ridgeway National Trails. Since 2024, The trail starts in Iffley, Oxfordshire and finishes in the lovely Henley-on-Thames. Upon finishing the ultramarathon, be sure to reward yourself with tea and hot soup offered at the finish.
For those travelling by train, the event operates a shuttle bus from Oxford station to the start line line in previous years. Please consult the website for the most up to date information.
Glasgow to Edinburgh Ultra
The Glasgow to Edinburgh Ultra, aka G2E Ultra, takes place annually in October and has a relatively flat terrain along its 57 miles. The race starts at the Riverside Museum in Glasgow and finishes at the Saughton Sports Complex in Edinburgh. You’ll traverse rolling green countryside and some iconic sights, including the Falkirk Wheel and the ancient Antonine Wall.
If you need to get back to Glasgow after the race, there are regular trains running to Glasgow Central from Edinburgh Waverley with CrossCountry. Alternatively, you can travel south into England, with CrossCountry services stopping at key stations such as Newcastle and Durham.
The Wall Ultra Marathon
The Wall Ultra spans a whopping 70 miles from Carlisle Castle to Gateshead Baltic Quay in Newcastle. The route is one of the UK’s favourites as it’s almost totally rural, alongside moors, valleys, and rivers. It’s a unique way to experience Hadrian's Wall and the legend and history behind it.
Described as one of the best first ultra-marathons to try in the UK, The Wall promises to push you to your limit. However, once you see the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, you’ll know you’ve done it, and the sense of tremendous pride will all be worth it. Rest assured that the route is well-supported, with plenty of checkpoints for food, drink, toilets, and medical provisions.
Disclaimer: Event details, travel arrangements, and schedules can change, sometimes at short notice, especially on busy race weekends. Always check the official marathon website and transport updates before you travel to ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information.
If you’re planning to run any of these marathons, don’t forget to book Advance rail tickets via our website or the CrossCountry app. Before you travel, make sure to check scheduled train times to find the best journey for you. If you need more information, you can contact us here.
Info
At the time of publishing, all information given is correct. Details of events, businesses, and locations included may be subject to change by third parties. Please make sure to check any details with organisers before you travel.
Get comfy with your mates and watch a movie at an outdoor cinema.
Have an adventure at the best theme parks in the UK.
