No Spot for London 2027? These UK & Ireland Marathons Have You Covered

For many runners, missing out on the London Marathon ballot means one thing: finding another challenge to train for.

We're starting close to home with six excellent alternatives across the UK and Ireland. All take place around the same time as the London Marathon, giving runners the chance to take on the 26.2 mile distance without the uncertainty of a ballot or the need for long haul travel.

In the coming days, we'll cast the net a little wider with a second guide looking at some of the best marathon alternatives across mainland Europe.

🌊 Brighton Marathon – Sunday April 4th 2027

Think London’s seaside cousin: same big-city buzz, but with more ices-on-a-sunny-day vibes and far fewer ballot tears. Brighton serves up a lovely route beginning by the city’s regal old Pavilion, sweeping through leafy squares before your final stretch along the Promenade. Expect thousands of enthusiastic runners, enthusiastic crowd support, and a proper sense of festival spirit. Places tend to fill by spring, so sign up early if you fancy some seaside fun.

Entry Fee: £80 
Why go? It’s flat, it’s friendly, and that post-race fish-and-chips is well deserved. And it’s only a couple hours from London, zero exotic flight hassle.

💨 Newport Marathon – Sunday April 18th 2027

Wales’ answer to a perfectly flat race, Newport’s built for PB chasers. The course threads past the Transporter Bridge, coastal marshes and the docks area, and it’s widely regarded as one of the UK’s flattest and fastest, with over 70% of runners smashing their personal bests in previous editions. Expect thousands of runners, efficient aid stations, and a competitive yet friendly vibe.

Entry Fee: £53 (Increasing to £59 later)
Why go? Seriously fast course, top-tier logistics and a proper chance to chase that shiny PB.

🏴 Blackpool Festival of Running Marathon – Sunday April 25th 2027

Second time being featured! Flat, breezy, and rooted in proper British funfair culture. This promenade marathon is pure carnival kitsch: deckchairs, donkey rides, seagulls and oversized candy-floss tents. The course stays flat but don’t be fooled , the sea breeze can throw you a curve if you’re not prepped. Expect an hearty support from locals and fellow runners alike. Bring strong layers, a sense of humour, and perhaps sunglasses for the glare off the Irish Sea.

Entry fee: £47
Why go? Who doesn't love Blackpool? You get chips by the finish line, a triumphantly retro medal, and a day of no-frills seaside joy.

🎭 Shakespeare Marathon – Sunday April 25th 2027

Fancy running in the Bard’s backyard? The Shakespeare Marathon takes you on a scenic, two‑lap tour of Stratford‑upon‑Avon and its leafy outskirts. The course is road‑closed for the most part, with smooth tarmac, a flat-and-fast profile (it hugs riverside paths and greenways), and that runner‑friendly vibe you want, chip timing, pacers, freebies and photos included. The race starts and finishes in the Recreation Ground, making logistics easy, and supports the Shakespeare Hospice, a feel‑good cause with every step you take.

Entry Fee: £45
Why go? It’s proper country‑charm meets PB potential. You get quiet stretches through charming villages like Luddington and Long Marston, plus that runner‑buzz of a small yet well‑supported event. Ideal if you want something different from the big-city races but still smooth, fast and meaningful.

🍀 Connemarathon (Ireland) – Sunday April 25th 2027

Not in the UK but close enough for the Brits and trip west for the Irish. This is as scenic a marathon scenic as you will get. Set in Connemara, Co. Galway, this race starts at Lough Inagh, finishes in Maam Cross, and offers full, half and a 39 mile ultra . Rugged lake views, rolling hills and a wild Atlantic buzz you won’t forget.

Entry fee: €75 (bus transfers included)
Why go? Stunning scenery, flexible distance options, and a real sense of adventure, all without needing to leave the Common Travel Area.

So, which one suits you best?

• Chasing a PB on flat roads? → Newport or Shakespeare
• Want a seaside run with festival vibes? → Brighton or Blackpool
• Prefer quiet roads and countryside charm? → Shakespeare
• In the mood for rugged scenery and a proper adventure? → Connemarathon

So there you have it, your 2026 marathon alternatives, all within the UK and Ireland. No ballot drama and no need to fundraise eyewatering amounts of money. 

Just five solid races, each offering the same 26.2 miles with a bit more breathing room and a lot less pressure.

Pick your race. Get it booked. Train for it. Run it.

Because London might’ve said no, but the roads are still wide open.