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As 2024 comes to an end, you might be starting to think about what you would like to achieve in the next year. Which race would you like to take on in 2025? If you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, a marathon is a thrilling and challenging feat to accomplish. With so many options out there, it can be tough to decide which one to tackle next.
That's where we come in. In this article, we'll be highlighting some of the best races to consider in 2025, based on their unique features, stunning locations, and overall appeal to runners. So lace up your running shoes and get ready to hit the pavement – these races are not to be missed!
Planning on taking part in one of these races but not sure how to fuel for it? Our Nutrition Calculator is a great tool that can help you plan your nutrition, no matter your level or length of race!
Set near Lake Mývatn, at the divergent boundaries of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, the Iceland Volcano Marathon route will be run directly in the North Volcanic Zone. It’s a hot bed of geothermal activity with geysers, hot springs, and lava rock!
Price: €2490
Where: The North Volcanic Zone, Iceland
When: 28th June
Since its inception in 1999, the Great Wall Marathon has become revered as one of the world's most challenging marathons. Despite the arduous course on the iconic Great Wall of China, runners will be rewarded by its breath-taking surroundings and views.
Price: From $1690
Where: The Great Wall of China, China
When: 17th May
Not like your average marathon, this race is interspersed with several activities: musical breaks with 50 orchestras scattered around the course, 23 wine tasting stops, oyster tasting at the 38th kilometre, and steak at the 39th kilometre.
Price: From €100
Where: Pauillac, France
When: 6th September
The London Marathon is one of the most famous and prestigious events of its kind in the world. The route has remained largely unchanged since the inaugural race in 1981 and encompasses many of the capital’s most mesmerising landmarks, old and new.
Where: London, UK
When: 27th April
The Tokyo Marathon, first run in 2007, celebrated its 10th anniversary milestone in 2016. Tokyo Marathon 2017 featured a new course, which finishes at the Tokyo Station/ Gyoko-dori Ave.
Where: Tokyo, Japan
When: 2nd March
The Boston is traditionally held on Patriots' Day, the third Monday of April. Begun in 1897, the event was inspired by the success of the first marathon competition in the 1896 Summer Olympics.
Where: Boston, USA
When: 21st April
The Berlin Marathon was established in 1974 by Horst Milde, a baker and running enthusiast in the city. It is a flat and fast course, suitable for all marathon lovers.
Where: Berlin, Germany
When: 21st September
The Chicago Marathon is the fourth-largest race by number of finishers worldwide. The Chicago Marathon is flat and fast, in fact, it has been the host to five world-record times.
Where: Chicago, USA
When: 12th October
The New York Marathon is the world’s largest marathon, with more than 53,000 finishers in 2019 and over 98,000 applicants for the 2017 race.
Where: New York City, USA
When: 2nd November
From Moors Valley Country Park to Hengistbury Head, this 50km point-to-point course takes you through a variety of terrain, including wonderful forest trails and coastal paths.
Price: £70
Where: Bournemouth, Dorset
When: 4th October
Starting and finishing by the beach of Studland Bay, this challenging and hilly 30 mile ultra run will take you on a wonderful tour of the Jurassic Coast and Isle of Purbeck.
Price: £45
Where: Jurrasic Coast, Dorset
When: 7th September
Celebrate all that is great about Manchester in this annual must do event. Choose from a Half Marathon or 10k course starting and finishing in the vibrant Manchester City Centre.
Price: £41 to £52
Where: Manchester
When: 18th May
Get muddy with this challenging trail run through the South Downs National Park, and part of the BigFeat Classic Elements Race Series. There'll be plenty of rolling hills to work through as well as one whopping 518ft climb to contend with.
Price: £39 to £49
Where: Horndean, Hampshire
When: 23rd February
Take on this brand new, exhilarating event from RunThrough set in Snowdonia. With 25k and 53k distances to choose from, you're sure to be challenged as you take on some incredible trails.
Price: From £38
Where: Snowdonia, Wales
When: 6th September
The ABP Newport Marathon Festival is a thrilling festival of running and one of the most exciting days on the Welsh sporting calendar. The marathon boasts one of the flattest courses in Europe and has been named in a list of ’10 of the fastest marathons in the world’ by Runners World.
Price: Varies depending on length selected
Where: Newport, Wales
When: 13th April
Liven up your February with a half marathon, 10k or 5k to warm up your winter. Set in the stunning Holyrood Park, this course offers a fantastic atmosphere and course.
Price: £22 to £25
Where: Edinburgh, Scotland
When: 1st February
Running alongside Loch Rannoch's beautiful southern shores will provide an unforgettable racing experience. Whether you are stepping up your mileage or looking to hit a new PB, this out-and-back route is a perfect test of endurance.
Price: £22 to £36
Where: Kinloch Rannoch, Scotland
When: 11th October
Run in Northern Ireland's vibrant historic capital, The Moy Park Belfast City Marathon! It is one of the leading marathons in the UK and Ireland and is an AIMS certified race.
Price: See website for details
Where: Belfast, Northern Ireland
When: 4th May (Marathon) and 21st September (Half Marathon)
Starting and finishing within the beautiful grounds of Hillsborough Castle, this family-friendly running festival is one for everyone to enjoy, and with three distances on offer, there is a race for any ability.
Price: £28.33 to £46
Where: Royal Hillsborough, Northern Ireland
When: 27th July
