Your first marathon is the one you'll remember. The race you choose can make the difference between a great day and a long, lonely shuffle.
Flat or hilly?
A flat road course is kinder for a first marathon and better for a time. Hilly and trail marathons are beautiful but slower, so set expectations accordingly.
Big city or small field?
Big city races bring crowds, atmosphere and pacers — but also queues, crowded starts and ballots. Smaller marathons are easier to enter and calmer, though the last miles can be quiet.
Time of year
Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are the classic seasons. A spring race means winter training in the dark and cold; an autumn race means long runs in summer heat. Pick the one that suits your life.
Entry and ballots
The biggest races run ballots months in advance, and charity places are an alternative route in. Many regional marathons simply open entry and fill up over time — enter early for the cheapest tier.
Training time
Sixteen to twenty weeks is typical if you can already run 10 miles comfortably.
See every UK running race including marathons and half marathons, by month and region.
