Winter is definitely here. Christmas is approaching, temperatures are falling and we're seeing reports of snow on the ground. So, it's time to 'layer-up', put on some gloves and invest in a running hat. And find some awesome winter races to run.
While looking for these races it will come as no surprise that there aren't as many to choose from. Cold weather and rain causing iced roads and muddy trails make it much more difficult to organise events. However, this doesn't stop some keen race organisers. Here are 10 of those winter races that we've found and think are well worth running.
Kielder Dark Sky 10K
A unique race, from Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, England's first Dark Sky Park and the largest expanse of dark night sky in the whole of Europe. 
When : January
Start time : 5:00 p.m.
Location : Dark Sky Park, Northumbria
Cost : £25
URL : https://www.highterrainevents.co.uk/kielder-10km-night-run
Central Lancashire New Year Half Marathon
Run on the first Sunday of every year. A flat, one-lap race through the beautiful Lancashire countryside. 
When : January
Start time : 10:00 a.m.
Location : Preston, Lancashire
Cost : £18 / £20
URL : https://www.fyldecoastrunners.com
Winter Cakeathon Challenge
Run as many 4.37-mile laps as you like at Betteshanger Country Park. All participants are requested to bring their own cake contribution.
When : January
Start time : 9:30 a.m.
Location : Deal, Kent
Cost : £39.95
URL : http://www.saxon-shore.com/winter_cakeathon/
London Kilt Run
A sociable 10K run to celebrate Scotland's favourite bard, Robert Burns.
When : January
Start time : 11:00 a.m.
Location : Victoria Embankment, London
Cost : £32.03
URL : https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/london-kilt-run-10k-robert-burns-day-world-record-attempt-tickets-54849917580
St Annes 10 Mile Run
A flat and fast coastal race along the St Annes promenade, looping around Fairhaven Lake. 
When : January
Start time : 11:00 a.m.
Location : Lytham St Annes, Lancashire
Cost : £17.60 / £19.60
URL : https://bookitzone.com/tim_armit/rOjFFX
Pateley Pie 'n' Pint
Set in the beautiful village of Pateley, runners enjoy up to 32 miles alongside the River Nidd, through surroundng fields, and over one 'generous' hill.
When : February
Start time : 9:30 a.m.
Location : Pateley Bridge, Harrogate
Cost : £22 - £47 (6 options from 5 miles to 32 miles)
URL : http://www.itsgrimupnorthrunning.co.uk/grim-up-north-running-events/event/pateley-pie-n-pint-2020/id/101/do/details
X Border Challenge
Run 10K from Gretna in Scotland to Carlisle in England.
When : February
Start time : 10:00 a.m.
Location : Gretna, Dumfries and Galloway
Cost : £15 / £17
URL : http://www.x-border10k.co.uk
Cancer Research UK London Winter Run
A popular 10K through the centre of London. 25,000 runners help raise money for Cancer Research UK while enjoying a live music, 'polar bears' and 'penguins'.
When : February
Start time : 9:30 a.m. onwards (waves)
Location : Piccadilly, London
Cost : £45
URL : https://www.londonwinterrun.co.uk
Brighton Half Marathon
Run along the Brighton seafront, this is easily one of the most popular half marathons. 15,000 entries are sure to sell out.
When : February
Start time : 9:30 a.m.
Location : Brighton, East Sussex
Cost : £37 / £39
URL : https://www.brightonhalfmarathon.com
The Terminator
A tough multi-terrain course of around 12 miles. A gentle start, getting steadily more challenging, with several climbs and a sting in the tail.
When : February
Start time : 10:30 a.m.
Location : Pewsey, Wiltshire
Cost : £25 / £27
URL : https://www.pewseyvalerunningclub.org/terminator-2020