Royal Parks Half Marathon 2026, London, United Kingdom
Overview
The Royal Parks Half Marathon is one of the UK’s most visually stunning road races, offering a magnificent 13.1 mile journey through the leafy heart of London. Starting and finishing in the iconic Hyde Park, the course is a masterful blend of city grandeur and natural serenity, taking runners on a scenic tour of four of the capital’s eight Royal Parks: Hyde Park, Green Park, St James’s Park, and Kensington Gardens. This event has gained a reputation for its incredible atmosphere, where the cooling shade of ancient trees meets the electric energy of thousands of spectators.
As the race unfolds on closed roads, participants are treated to close-up views of London’s most famous landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and the Royal Albert Hall. The event is celebrated for its commitment to sustainability and its festival-like environment, featuring a massive food and fitness village that keeps the celebration going long after the final runner has crossed the line. Whether you are an elite athlete or a first-time half marathoner, the combination of a flat, fast course and the vibrant autumn colors of London makes this an essential fixture in the global running calendar.
Event Highlights
- The Royal Route: Runners pass several historic royal residences, including Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace, offering a majestic backdrop for the entire race.
- The Serpentine and Greenery: A significant portion of the route circles the Serpentine lake and winds through the beautifully landscaped paths of Kensington Gardens.
- Landmark Finish: The race concludes with a dramatic finish in Hyde Park, framed by the Albert Memorial and the world-famous Royal Albert Hall.
- Sustainability Focus: Known as one of the UK’s most eco-friendly races, the event utilizes plastic-free initiatives and promotes a sustainable “leave no trace” policy within the parks.
Why Attend
Attending this half marathon is a unique opportunity to experience the center of London without the typical hustle and bustle of city traffic. The course is famously gentle with only minor undulations, making it a perfect choice for those looking to secure a personal best or for beginners who want a manageable and inspiring first race. Beyond the run itself, the post-race festival in Hyde Park is a major draw, offering a wide array of high-quality food, wellness stalls, and entertainment for both runners and their supporters.
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This event is particularly popular with international visitors who want to combine an athletic challenge with a sightseeing tour of London’s most historic districts. The atmosphere is consistently warm and supportive, with massive cheering zones throughout the route to provide a morale boost when it is needed most. Running through the golden autumn foliage of the Royal Parks is a sensory experience that defines the beauty of October in London, making it a bucket-list event for runners worldwide.
Date & Duration
- Race Date: The event takes place on Sunday, October 11, 2026.
- Start Time: The race typically begins at 9:00 AM, with runners setting off in waves according to their predicted finish times.
Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.
Venue / Location
- City and Country: London, United Kingdom.
- Venue: The event village, start line, and finish line are all centrally located within Hyde Park.
- Google Maps Address: Hyde Park, London W2 2UH, United Kingdom.
Ticket Information
- How Tickets Are Sold: General entries are allocated through a public ballot system, while charity places are available through various partner organizations.
- Admission Type: Entry is granted through a paid registration which includes a race bib, timing chip, and a sustainable finisher’s medal.
- Ticket Pricing: Ballot entry fees are approximately $52.00, while charity registration fees typically range from $33.00 to $45.00.
- Price Range: Registration costs generally fall between a minimum of $33.00 and a maximum of $52.00, excluding any mandatory fundraising pledges for charity spots.
- Special Seating or VIP Options: Corporate packages are available for teams, often including private marquees, baggage facilities, and post-race catering in the event village.
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Contact Information
- Email: info@royalparkshalf.com
- Phone: +44 203 310 7034
- Website: https://www.royalparkshalf.com/
- Social Media:
- https://www.instagram.com/royalparkshalf/
- https://www.facebook.com/royalparkshalf
- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEw8OiCMjLNzJjvL8Sw1fqw/featured
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/royal-parks-foundation-half-marathon/
Getting There
- Nearest Airports: London Heathrow (LHR) is 24 km away; the Heathrow Express reaches Paddington Station (near Hyde Park) in 15 minutes for about $33.00.
- Public Transport: Use the London Underground to reach Green Park (Jubilee/Victoria lines) or Marble Arch (Central line), with single fares costing roughly $3.50.
- Taxi/Rideshare: A taxi from central London to the Hyde Park entrance costs approximately $15.00 to $25.00; Uber and Free Now are readily available.
- Parking: Parking is extremely restricted near Hyde Park on race day; it is highly recommended to use public transport or park at suburban stations for about $15.00 per day.
- Other Access: Extensive bike-sharing stations (Santander Cycles) are available around the park perimeter, though some stations may be closed due to the race route.
Accommodation Options
- Luxury Hotels: The Ritz London offers 5-star opulence for about $600.00 to $900.00 per night, while the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park provides world-class views for $700.00 to $1,000.00 per night.
- Mid-Range Options: The Corus Hyde Park Hotel is located directly opposite the park for $180.00 to $280.00 per night, and Novotel London Paddington offers modern comfort for $160.00 to $240.00 per night.
- Budget Stays: The Smart Hyde Park Inn provides affordable hostel and private rooms for $40.00 to $90.00 per night, and Ibis Styles London Hyde Park offers efficient rooms for $110.00 to $160.00 per night.
Reviews
- Atmosphere was Electric: The crowds in the parks were so loud and the scenic route through London’s green spaces made every mile feel effortless.
- Perfectly Organized: From the baggage drop to the final medal collection, everything was smooth and the environmental focus was truly impressive.
- Stunning Autumn Run: Seeing the palaces and landmarks while running through the golden trees was an experience I will cherish forever.
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FAQ's
Do I need to provide a medical certificate to participate in the Royal Parks Half Marathon?
No, unlike many other European marathons, the UK does not generally require a formal medical certificate from a doctor to participate. However, you will be required to sign a health declaration during the registration process confirming that you are fit to run. It is strongly advised that you consult with a medical professional before taking on a 13.1 mile challenge if you have any underlying health conditions.
How does the ballot system work for securing a general entry spot?
The public ballot usually opens in early February and remains open for approximately one week, during which time anyone can apply for a chance to run. Successful applicants are then selected at random and notified via email to complete their registration and pay the entry fee. If you are unsuccessful in the ballot, you can still secure a spot by committing to run for one of the event's hundreds of charity partners.
What should I do if the Piccadilly Line is closed on the morning of the race?
London's transport network often schedules engineering works on weekends, so it is vital to check the Transport for London (TfL) website in the days leading up to the race. If the Piccadilly Line is closed, alternative stations such as Green Park (Victoria/Jubilee) or Marble Arch (Central) are within walking distance of the start. Allow at least an extra 30 minutes for your journey to ensure you arrive at your designated wave start time without stress.
Is there a specific time limit for completing the half marathon course?
The event has a course closure time of 4 hours, which is calculated from when the final runner crosses the start line. This generous time limit is designed to be inclusive, allowing participants who wish to jog or walk a portion of the route to finish comfortably. If you fall significantly behind this pace, you may be asked to move onto the sidewalk so that the roads can be reopened to traffic.
Can international runners apply for a charity place if they miss the ballot?
Yes, many charities welcome international runners to join their teams, though some may have specific requirements for overseas participants. You will still be expected to reach the same minimum fundraising target, which is typically around $450.00. Running for a charity is a fantastic way to guarantee your entry while contributing to a meaningful cause and receiving extra support such as a team running vest and post-race hospitality.
