10 Alternatives to the London Marathon

10 marathons to run instead of the London Marathon

Were you unlucky in the London Marathon draw? We've been there too, so we know how it feels. However, there are a good number of other marathons taking place around the same time. Perhaps one of these will be interest you.

We've listed 10 marathons, in chronological order, that we think are worth consideration. Being that most London Marathon applicants are primed to train for a late April event, we have focused on events happening close to the date of the London race.

1. Paris Marathon
For many runners this is a must-run race, through one of the world's prime capital cities.

Date : 5 April 2020
Location : Paris, France
Cost : 90 - 125 Euro
URL : https://www.schneiderelectricparismarathon.com/en/

2. Brighton Marathon
Relatively flat, and boasting impressive coastal views, this is a popular marathon that will undoubtedly be over-subscribed.

Date : 19 April 2020
Location : Brighton, East Sussex
Cost : £65 (2019 price)
URL : https://www.brightonmarathonweekend.co.uk

3. Shakespeare Marathon
A predominantly flat race through Stratford-upon-Avon, the medieval market town famous for being Shakespeare's birthspace.

Date : 26 April 2020
Location : Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire
Cost : £36
URL : http://www.shakespearemarathon.org.uk

4. Madrid Marathon
Describing itself as "the biggest running party in Spain", this is a popular race, typically attracting runners from over over 100 different countries.

Date : 26 April 2020
Location : Madrid, Spain
Cost : 60 - 90 Euro
URL : https://edprocknrollmadrid.com/?lang=en

5. Belfast Marathon
A scenic 26.2 mile tour of Belfast, starting at the City Hall and finishing in Ormeau Park. One of the UK's most popular marathons.

Date : 3 May 2020
Location : Belfast, Antrim
Cost : £40 - £65 (2019 price)
URL : https://www.belfastcitymarathon.com

6. Milton Keynes Marathon
With an impressive stadium finish, this award-winning unsurprisingly fills every year.

Date : 3 May 2020
Location : Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire
Cost : £46 - £50
URL : https://mkmarathon.com

7. Prague Marathon
The Czechs love running. So it is no surprise they host one of the most popular marathons, taking runners on a route past some truly memorable sites.

Date : 3 May 2020
Location : Prague, Czech Republic
Cost : 60 - 110 Euro
URL : https://www.runczech.com/en/

8. Cape Wrath Challenge Marathon
The most northerly marathon on mainland Britain. Hilly, but with truly stunning scenery. And a mid-race boat trip.

Date : 16 May 2020
Location : Durness, Sutherland
Cost : £30
URL : https://capewrathchallenge.co.uk

9. ASICS Windermere Marathon
Enjoy breathtaking scenery while running within a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This event is also noted for its friendly support and the "carnival atmosphere" at the finish area.

Date : 17 May 2020
Location : Ambleside, Lancashire
Cost : £39
URL : https://www.brathaychallenges.com/events/running/marathon

10. EMF Edinburgh Marathon
Starting in the centre of Edinburgh, this race passes the Scottish Parliament, Holyrood Palace and leads runners along the scenic golf coast.

Date : 24 May 2020
Location : Edinburgh, Lothian
Cost : £62
URL : https://www.edinburghmarathon.com

If none of these marathons appeal to you, there are many others around the same time, and later in the year. Check out our UK, European and International lists for many more marathon options.