2026 Key Marathon & Major Running Dates: Ultimate UK & Europe Race Calendar

Whether you’re planning your race season, organising your training plan, or ready to book entries for your next PB attempt, here’s a comprehensive guide to the biggest marathon and iconic running event dates in 2026.

This calendar includes major marathons in the UK and Europe, iconic urban half‑marathons, and season highlights every runner should know in 2026.

🏃‍♂️ March 2026 Races

🇪🇸 Barcelona Marathon — 15 March 2026

The popular Barcelona Marathon is one of spring’s early destination races, attracting runners with its fast course, Mediterranean atmosphere and scenic urban route around the city and near the coast.

📍 April 2026: A Packed Month of Iconic Races

🟡 Brighton Marathon — 12 April 2026

The Brighton Marathon is one of the UK’s favourite spring marathons. Set against a buzzing seaside backdrop and finishing along Brighton’s vibrant seafront, it’s known for its fun atmosphere and supportive crowd.

🏙️ London Landmarks Half Marathon — 12 April 2026

This urban half marathon takes runners past some of London’s most iconic sites — from Nelson’s Column to the Tower of London — on a unique closed‑road route.

Distance: 21.1 km (half marathon)Date: Sunday, 12 April 2026Location: London

🎽 Paris Marathon — 12 April 2026

One of the world’s largest marathons, the Paris Marathon showcases famous city landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Champs‑Élysées and Notre Dame cathedral.

Marathon Date: 12 April 2026

🇮🇹 Milan Marathon — 12 April 2026

The Milan Marathon is set through the heart of Milan, with a scenic course that starts and finishes near Piazza del Duomo. It’s an increasingly popular European marathon choice for runners seeking a well‑supported and fast event.

🛣️ Manchester Marathon — 19 April 2026

The Manchester Marathon is known for its flat route and vibrant atmosphere. It’s often chosen by runners chasing personal bests or as their spring marathon target.

🇺🇸 Boston Marathon — 20 April 2026

Part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, the Boston Marathon is one of the most historic and prestigious races globally. Runners from around the world travel to compete on its iconic course.

🏆 London Marathon — 26 April 2026

One of the “big six” marathon majors, the TCS London Marathon takes place on Sunday 26 April 2026. This race regularly attracts world‑class elite fields, mass participation runners and large crowds cheering throughout the route.

Notably, the 2026 event broke records with more than 1.1 million people entering the public ballot in 2025 for race spots, underscoring its huge global popularity.

📅 May 2026 Events

🏃 Hackney Half Marathon — 17 May 2026

The Hackney Half Marathon is a popular London event that offers a fun and energetic half‑marathon distance. It’s ideal for runners stepping up from 10K or those seeking a fast spring race in the capital.

🗓️ Summary: 2026 UK & European Marathon Dates

Tips for Runners Planning Their 2026 Season

• Plan early: Many races sell out or close entries well before race day, especially major events like London and Boston.

• Check qualification rules: Some marathons (e.g., Boston) require qualifying times or special entry routes.

• Training cycles: Schedule your training plans with target races in mind — a spring marathon in April calls for a winter build‑up.

• Travel logistics: For international races (like Barcelona and Paris), consider travel, accommodation and taper timing early.

Ready to Reach Your Running Goals?

If you’re aiming for your best performance, consider tailored 1‑on‑1 coaching with expert support.

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• Fully personalised training plans

• Responsive coaching with adjustments as your body adapts

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Whether you’re targeting a spring marathon, a half-marathon, or multiple races across the season, this coaching approach ensures your training is adaptive, evidence-based, and fully tailored to you.

📩 Book your 1‑on‑1 coaching now and get a plan designed for your body, your schedule, and your 2026 race goals.