Best UK Marathons for 2025: Your Guide to Top Races Beyond London
Adventure Awaits: UK Marathons to Watch in 2025
Forget squeezing onto crowded Tube carriages in the capital—some of the most exciting UK marathons take place far from the hustle of London. In 2025, runners craving everything from sea views to mountain climbs have a ton of options. Here’s a closer look at the marathons that are grabbing attention next year.
Great Welsh Marathon (16 March, Carmarthenshire, Wales) is an early-season charmer for anyone chasing a flat PB. The route sweeps along Llanelli’s Millennium Coastal Park, taking runners past Burry Port harbour and into peaceful parkland. It’s Wales’ oldest marathon, and finishes at the lovely Pembrey Country Park—perfect if you love fresh air more than city smog.
Down south, the Brighton Marathon (6 April, Brighton) has grown into the UK’s second largest marathon. It delivers a carnival vibe from start to finish, much like London, but with less stress. The race kicks off at Preston Park and ends at Hove Lawns, letting you soak up the seaside. While there’s a slight rise early on, most of the 26.2 miles are blissfully flat. Expect live bands, cheering crowds, and plenty of quirky Brighton spirit.
For those ready to test their speed, the Manchester Marathon (27 April, Manchester) sells itself as the flattest, fastest course in Britain. Think closed roads, slick organisation, and a finish outside Old Trafford that makes you feel like a Premier League star. The route zigzags through lively urban areas, drawing crowds that boost you for that final push.
On the May bank holiday, Milton Keynes Marathon (5 May, Milton Keynes) is another popular pick. Starting at Stadium MK, this race mixes city streets with charming village lanes, so you get a taste of both. There's something for everyone, with a half marathon and 5K running alongside the main event. The best part? That satisfying stadium finish.
If you like your marathons with hills, the Leeds Marathon (11 May, Leeds) is worth checking out. Starting at Headingley Stadium, the route swoops through the city centre and out to Otley, dishing out some solid climbs. Survive the inclines and you’re rewarded with a satisfying downhill finish into Leeds—those last 5km really let you hammer it home.
Scotland throws its tartan into the ring with the Edinburgh Marathon (25 May, Edinburgh). It opens at Potterrow and threads through historic city streets before heading out to coastline and countryside. The scenery attracts runners from all over the globe, and the festival atmosphere keeps things buzzing for spectators and athletes alike.
October’s Snowdonia Marathon (25 October, Snowdonia National Park, Wales) is a different beast altogether. Strap in for jaw-dropping mountain and lake views—and some serious climbs. With 1,300m of elevation gain, this one tests your grit. It loops around the base of Snowdon, winding through valleys and past slate quarries. Not for the faint-hearted, but it’s been voted one of the world’s most beautiful marathons for a reason.
If you’re up for a trail challenge a bit earlier in the year, the Three Forts Challenge (4 May, South Downs National Park) could be your jam. It's a mix of woodland paths, trails, and tarmac, with the added thrill of historic sights like Cissbury Ring and Devil's Dyke along the way. It's hilly—and it hurts—but the views make it worthwhile.
Which Race Should You Pick?
Chasing a personal best? Manchester and Brighton's flat, runner-friendly courses have your name written on them. If you're all about losing yourself in nature, Snowdonia and the Three Forts Marathon will push you—and maybe make you consider investing in a foam roller. For those who love a bit of everything, Leeds and Edinburgh blend urban energy with green escapes.
Most of these marathon races welcome charity runners, first timers, club athletes, and everyone in between, so you’ll always find a squad of friendly faces. And for anyone wanting loads of crowd support without the lottery hassle, these events serve up the best of British running—less hype, more heart.
So if you’ve outgrown the London hype or just want a fresh challenge for your next 26.2, get your calendar ready. From city thrills to stunning trails, the UK's best marathons 2025 are waiting for you to lace up and join the adventure.