Best London Half Marathons

London is home to a fantastic variety of half marathon races, offering something for every type of runner—from those chasing a personal best to those simply looking to enjoy the journey. Each race in the city showcases a unique slice of London – whether winding past iconic landmarks, historic sites, riverside paths or scenic parks. From the world-famous Royal Parks Half Marathon to community favourites like the Ealing Half, London’s half marathons stand out for their supportive crowds, vibrant atmosphere and stunning backdrops. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a first-timer, I’ve put this list together, showcasing the best half marathons in London!

The Big Half
London Landmarks Half Marathon
Hackney Half Marathon
Richmond RunFest Half Marathon
Wimbledon Half Marathon
Royal Parks Half Marathon
Ealing Half Marathon
Kingston Half
Hampton Court Palace Half Marathon
Battersea Park Half Marathon
Greenwich Park Half Marathon

The Big Half

The Big Half is an inclusive, fun, festival-like race that will take you through the streets of East London. Organised by London Marathon Events, the Big Half is a very well organised run with great atmosphere! The race starts near Tower Bridge and follows part of the London Marathon route, finishing in Greenwich. Running over Tower Bridge is an absolute highlight! You’ll be treated to great crowds along the route, cheering you along!

Be sure to spend some time exploring all the incredible things Greenwich has to offer!

Official Site: Big Half. Race Date: September

London Landmarks Half Marathon

The London Landmarks Half Marathon is arguably one of the capital’s most iconic running races. As the name suggests, this 13.1 mile race will take you through the city’s famous landmarks. From the Tower of London to St. Paul’s Cathedral to Nelson’s Column, you’ll soak up the city’s rich history and culture throughout. It’s known for its lively themes and costumes and the event actually encourages participants to dress up! In the past there have been some iconic outfits, with one guy even dressing up as Big Ben. With its unique mix of running and sightseeing, its the perfect race for locals and visitors alike.

I found the crowd support during the race fantastic too, with spectators and race organisers cheering along the whole course!

Entry can be done via the ballot or through a charity place. It’s an extremely popular race, so consider other half marathons in London if you can’t get into this one.

Official Site: London Landmarks Half Marathon. Race Date: April

Hackney Half Marathon

The Hackney Half is probably one of my favourite London Half Marathons. As the race is part of the Hackney Moves Festival, there is incredible pre and post running events to check out. I loved the race village and found the atmosphere to be electric! The race takes you through East London’s vibrant streets, with a lively crowd, music zones and local DJs. It feels more like a street party than a race and this is probably my favourite half marathon in London!

It was a bit hilly at points but still very enjoyable! The ballot entry goes very quickly, so be sure to enter early or sign up for a charity fundraising place.

Official Site: Hackney Half. Race Date: May.

Richmond RunFest Half Marathon

Set in the scenic Richmond area, this half marathon starts in Kew Gardens and continues along the Thames, offering some of the city’s most picturesque views. The Richmond RunFest hosts a few events on the same day, including the 10km, Half Marathon and Full Marathon. This makes for great atmosphere amongst the runners and the supporters. You’ll pass through stunning scenery at the Royal Botanic Gardens and historical settings like Ham House, Richmond Palace and Teddington Lock. The race ends in Old Deer Park with live music and fitness expo vibes, similar to that of Hackney Half.

Places tend to go quickly so be sure to sign up well in advance.

Official Site: Richmond RunFest. Race Date: September

Kingston Half Marathon

The Kingston Half Marathon offers a fast, scenic course along the River Thames. This race has become popular for those attempting a personal best time, given it’s relatively flat profile. The route covers sections of Kingston, Hampton Court and scenic riverside paths.

Official Site: Kingston Half Marathon. Race Date: October.

Ealing Half Marathon

The Ealing Half Marathon is known for its friendly, community-driven atmosphere and has won awards for being one of the best half marathons in the UK. The course takes runners through suburban Ealing and is supported by enthusiastic locals. Although it’s not the most exciting route, the atmosphere is brilliant – particularly as it’s the largest closed-road race in West London. It’s also very well organised and supported.

Official Site: Ealing Half Marathon. Race Date: September.

Royal Parks Half

The Royal Parks Half Marathon is famous for its stunning route through four of London’s Royal Parks – Hyde Park, Green Park, St. James’s Park, and Kensington Gardens. The race also goes by a few key London landmarks, like Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square and the Admiralty Arch!

Taking place in October, it’s one of the most picturesque urban races. I have always loved running, or supporting, at this race with all the autumnal colours of the park. There’s a great mix of on-road running, with lots of fantastic crowd support, and parts on quieter paths through the parks. This is an extremely popular race, so the ballot typically fills up, but charity places are available for those who miss out.

Official Site: Royal Parks Half. Race Date: October.

Greenwich Park Half Marathon

The Greenwich Park Half Marathon is held in one of London’s stunning royal parks, with lush greenery and panoramic views of the city skyline. It’s a low-key race in comparison to the Big Half or LLHM, which makes it easier to enter. However, this is considered to be a more challenging race due to its hilly course and looped route. If you decide to do the half, you’ll be doing 6.5 laps of the course!

Having said that, it does offer a beautiful running setting along with multiple race distances. Along with the half, you’ll find 5km and 10km options too. I loved this as it meant I could sign up with friends who opted for shorter distances, and the lapped course meant we could have a group stationed in one place who could easily spot us all.

This race is also held a few times each year, with registration typically opening well in advance.

Official Site: Greenwich Park Half Race Date: Throughout Year

Wimbledon Half Marathon

The Wimbledon Half is a smaller race with a friendly atmosphere, looping through the scenic grounds and parklands of Wimbledon. Known for its mix of road and trail sections, it’s a great choice for runners looking for a quieter experience. Held multiple times throughout the year, registration is open well in advance and much easier to get a place compared to the bigger half marathons in London.

Official Site: Wimbledon Half Race Date: October.

Hampton Court Palace Half Marathon

Starting and finishing at Hampton Court Palace, this unique race offers a historical backdrop combined with a scenic riverside route. There’s a great atmosphere at this race, with lots of people dressed up as historic figures, like Henry VIII! It’s a lovely half marathon race and has a perfect finish. Be sure to spend some time in Hampton area afterwards. Whether that be exploring Hampton Court Palace, or popping into Hampton itself and enjoy the cute pubs and cafes there.

Official Site: Hampton Court Palace Half. Race Date: March.

Battersea Park Half Marathon

The Battersea Park Half Marathon is ideal for those seeking a smaller, looped course. Held within the flat grounds of Battersea Park, it offers runners a chance for a fast time on a straightforward route. I would say if you don’t like repetitive courses, this one probably isn’t for you…it’s 4.5 laps of the same loop. However, this can work best if you have a small cheer squad who can pick a point and guarantee to see you multiple times during the race.

Official Site: Battersea Half Race Date: Main event November, with others throughout Year.

Some of my favourite websites to find running races in London (and beyond) are Let’s Do This, Find a Race and Running Calendar! These will help you find races of all distances and regions.

Related: Singapore Half Marathon