Marathon season is here! With the Manchester Marathon, Brighton Marathon and London Marathon taking place in close succession, it is that time of the year again, when 26.2 milers start getting quite a bit more attention.
Of course, we know that there are plenty of marathons taking place throughout the year. From Cape Wrath to Southampton, and everywhere in between, there are numerous races to attract marathon runners. Popular marathons in the UK include those in Belfast, Edinburgh, Snowdonia and Bournemouth. However, there are many more. Some of these are fairly well known. However, there are also many not so well known marathons, some of which are arguably much better than many of the big, popular races.
Here's a list of 10 races that we think are worth checking out.
1. ASICS Windermere Marathon
Enjoy breathtaking scenery while running within a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This event is also noted for its friendly support and the "carnival atmosphere" at the finish area.
Date : 19 May 2019
Location : Ambleside, Lancashire
Cost : £47
URL : https://www.brathaychallenges.com/events/running/marathon
2. Loch Ness Marathon
Run 26.2 miles while looking for 'Nessie'. Run along the side of Loch Ness, finishing in Inverness, capital of the Highlands.
Date : 6 October 2019
Location : Loch Ness, Highland
Cost : £52
URL : http://www.lochnessmarathon.com
3. St Magnus Marathon
Run the UK's most northerly marathon on the route journeyed by the followers of the Viking Earl, St Magnus. Warning : stopping to take photos of the gorgeous coastal scenery could seriously damage your race time.
Date : 7 July 2019
Location : Kirkwall, Orkney
Cost : £38
URL : http://www.birsayhall.com
4. Three Forts Marathon
Sometimes kown as 'The Tough One', this marathon has something extra for all runners. Another mile! Despite this, or maybe because of it, this race across the South Downs and Surrey countryside attracts a lot of attention every year.
Date : May
Location : Worthing, West Sussex
Cost : £40
URL : https://www.threefortschallenge.org.uk
5. Chester Marathon
A hidden gem in the marathon calendar. Although not always spoken about quite as much as London, Boston, and the like, we are big fans this event. Well-organised and full of historical sights, including the Roman Walls, the Amphitheatre, Old Dee Bridge, Eastgate Clock and the Cathedral, we thoroughly recommend it.
Date : 6 October 2019
Location : Chester, Cheshire
Cost : £55
URL : http://www.activeleisureevents.co.uk/marathon
6. Snowdonia Marathon
A tough race, but ever-popular. Twice voted the best marathon, this challenging marathon circles around the base of Mount Snowdon, allowing runners view of the surrounding Welsh countryside. Apply early, as this race is sure to fill.
Date : 26 October 2019
Location : Llanberis, Conwy
Cost : £37
URL : http://www.snowdoniamarathon.co.uk
7. London
Easily one of the best, and possibly the best marathon for first timers. With amazing crowd support and an unforgettable atmosphere, this is definitely a 'must do' race.
Date : April
Location : London
Cost : £39
URL : https://www.virginmoneylondonmarathon.com
8. Eden Project Marathon
An eco-friendly race through the stunningly beautiful Cornish countryside. As well as a foot soak and massage, finishers each receive a Cornish pastie and can of local ale.
Date : 13 October 2019
Location : Bodelva, Cornwall
Cost : £37
URL : https://www.edenproject.com
9. Walled City Marathon
Described as "challenging" runners follow a route through Derry / Londonderry, taking in many vibrant neighbourhoods, surrounding villages and the banks of the River Foyle, before returning to the centre of the Walled City and finishing at the 19th century Guild Hall.
Date : 2 June 2019
Location : Derry / Londonderry
Cost : £50
URL : https://thewalledcitymarathon.com
10. Bacchus Marathon
This one is a lot of fun. Run through the picturesque Denbies vineyard, stopping to enjoy their wine as you go. Participants are encouraged to wear fancy dress.
Date : 8 September 2019
Location : Dorking, West Sussex
Cost : £50
URL : https://www.209events.com