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As 2023 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 2024? 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 2024, 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!
Returning for another year is the Eden Marathon, a challenging, multi-terrain route through spectacular Cornish countryside around the Eden Project, near St Austell.
Price: TBA (£39 for full and £34 for half in 2023)
Where: Eden Project, Cornwall
When: October (Specific Date TBA)
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 £1,354 ($1695)
Where: The Great Wall of China, China
When: 18th 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 £86.11 (€100)
Where: Pauillac, France
When: 7th 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: 21st 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: 3rd 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: 15th 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: 29th 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: 13th 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: 3rd November
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: £42 to £49
Where: Manchester
When: 26th May
Get moving this spring in this trail festival in Yorkshire. With 5 distances on offer, runners can enjoy tough hills and breath-taking views.
Price: £23 to £55
Where: Sheffield, Yorkshire
When: 21st April
Take part in one of the country's biggest running event with the ABP Southampton Marathon. The routes take in Southampton's most historic landmarks, and not forgetting the stunning city centre finish.
Price: £8 to £50
Where: Southampton, Hampshire
When: 7th April
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: £36 to £49
Where: Horndean, Hampshire
When: 25th February
Featuring breathtaking views of Avon Gorge and Clifton Suspension Bridge, this flat and fast 10k and Half Marathon is the perfect event for runners of all abilities.
Price: £12 to £41
Where: Bristol
When: 19th May
Take on one of the toughest runs in the UK. This 60 mile Ultra along the River Severn footpath is a brilliant challenge for ambitious trail runners. The path meanders through the local towns and villages alongside the river, taking in stunning views along the way.
Price: £90
Where: Holt Heath, Worcestershire
When: 19th May
Put yourself to the test at the St Patrick's Day Challenge. Run as much or as little as you wish, and complete a 5k, 10k, Half-marathon, Marathon, or Ultra in either the 6-hour or 4-hour event.
Price: £30 to £35
Where: Peterborough, Cambridgeshire
When: 17th March
Run along the scenic Suffolk roads in another brilliant event from Zig Zag Running. Keep your eyes peeled for views of the windmill and Dalham Hall as you take on a 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Marathon or Ultra.
Price: £20.50 to £35
Where: Bury Saint Edmunds, Suffolk
When: 27th January
The Brecon Beacons Trail Challenge is perfect for all abilities looking to embrace nature whilst racing through one of the most picturesque parts of Wales. Offering plenty of distances from an Ultra to 10k there is an event for everyone.
Price: £40 to £75
Where: Talybont-on-Usk, Wales
When: 4th May
Run along the dramatic Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in this one of a kind marathon perfect for all levels. You don't need to worry about traffic or beeping horns as the route will be closed just for runners.
Price: £20 to £55
Where: Tenby, Wales
When: 23rd June
Step up to your next challenge with the Ultra Scotland 50 Mile. Tackle a stunning yet brutally hilly course as you race around some of Scotland's most awe-inspiring trails.
Price: £87 to £89
Where: Saint John's Town of Dalry, Scotland
When: 8th June
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: 12th to 13th 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: 5th May (Marathon) and 22nd 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: £10 to £40
Where: Royal Hillsborough, Northern Ireland
When: 28th July
