Best London Half Marathons

Run past London’s world-famous landmarks, take in the scenery through beautiful parks and soak up the character and energy of a London half marathon. Whether you’re running for charity, challenging your fitness goals or a first timer, fun-running with friends — here’s our guide to the best runs in London covering 13.1 miles.

Hackney Half Marathon

The Hackney Half Marathon route starts at the running village, where a lively festival atmosphere gets runners in the mood and keeps supporters entertained with lots of food, drinks, kids workshops and fitness merchandise. Pace yourself on the flat route through East London, past cool street art and Hackney Empire. You run along Broadway Market and London Fields before weaving back to Hackney Marshes and cross the finish line to big cheers. Stay at The Clermont Victoria or our Charing Cross hotel (both half an hour away on the tube) for a relaxing pre-run sleep and a rewarding bathtub soak afterwards for those powerful muscles.

Richmond Runfest Half Marathon

For beautiful surroundings, the Richmond Runfest Half Marathon in September is one of the best summer half marathons in the capital. The route begins at the stunning Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and goes along the Richmond riverside, past Ham House and The Pagoda. You finish to the sound of festival music in Old Deer Park to collect your medal, goodie bag and beer! It’s a route that’s as flat as a pancake taking you across grass, tarmac, gravel — so it’s a great run for setting a personal best.

The Big Half

Organised by the London Marathon team, the Big Half Marathon is a 1-day running festival for athletes of all abilities. The 13.1-mile route begins at Tower Bridge, winds through Southwark, Tower Hamlets and Lewisham before finishing at the Cutty Sark in Greenwich. Stay at The Clermont Charing Cross and head for a well-deserved pint and a roast or delicious pie at one of these fantastic pubs nearby or enjoy a delicious meal out at a local restaurant.

Royal Parks Half Marathon

Run through four of London’s Royal Parks for a magical half marathon and eco-friendly race, raising money to maintain the parks and for many fantastic charities. The Royal Parks Half route takes you past London’s world-famous landmarks on closed roads and through Hyde Park, Green Park, St James’s Park and Kensington Gardens. You can guarantee entry if you take one of the royal parks’ half marathon charity places. Stay at The Clermont Victoria, a convenient spot to base yourself for the run, and celebrate your finish at one of these gorgeous alfresco bars, a gentle walk from the hotel.