To find out, VegasSlotsOnline researched which full marathons in the UK are the most popular, and the most challenging, analysing metrics such as the elevation gain, race ratings, average rainfall and search volume for each race.

The 10 best full marathons in the UK:

Rank
Full Marathon
Elevation gain (ft)
Race
rating
Pre-event communication
Course navigation
Avg. no. of rainy days
Avg. temp (°C)
Search volume (12 months)
Overall Score
1
London Marathon
597
4.74
4.80
4.85
9
9.4
110,000
8.63
2
Brighton Marathon
682
4.29
4.39
4.62
7
9.1
14,800
7.43
3
Ely Tri Club Runfest
160
–
–
–
8
7.6
30
7.19
4
Shakespeare Marathon
744
4.55
4.40
4.94
9
8.8
590
7.07
5
Yorkshire Marathon
603
4.61
4.57
4.91
9
10.5
4,400
7.02
6
Southampton Marathon
290
4.52
4.49
4.57
9
9.4
2,400
6.96
7
Milton Keynes Marathon
738
4.59
4.57
4.80
8
12.0
2,400
6.93
8
Manchester Marathon
482
4.29
4.36
4.63
10
8.1
27,100
6.84
9
MBNA Chester Marathon
816
4.79
4.87
4.91
10
11.0
170
6.80
10
Newport Marathon
367
4.10
4.50
4.50
9
8.9
4,400
6.65

Three of the UK’s top marathons, including the Nation’s favourite, are happening this weekend, with the London, Manchester, and Shakespeare Marathons all set to hit the streets.

The London Marathon has been named the most popular full marathon across the UK. A dream activity for runners across the world, preparations will already be well underway for those lucky enough to have secured a place for 2025. It boasts the second highest race rating and pre-event communication score, as well as the largest search volume of 110,000 in the last 12 months.

Ranked fourth in the UK, the Shakespeare Marathon takes place in the historic town of Stratford-upon-Avon and features the highest elevation gain among the top five races at 744 feet. Despite the challenge, it stands out with the best navigation score, an impressive 4.94 out of 5, making it a favourite for runners seeking both a scenic and well-organised race experience.

The Manchester Marathon ranks 8th among the UK’s top races. With a record 36,000 runners taking part this Sunday, the race boasts an impressive 4.29 overall race rating, and a search volume of 27,100 over the past year. Known for its relatively flat course, with just 482 feet of elevation gain, it’s a favourite among runners looking to set a personal best. Clearly, Manchester Marathon continues to be a top choice for runners.

Rounding out the UK’s top 10 marathons are events like the Chester and Newport marathons, respectively with a rating of 4.79 and 4.10, and a course navigation of 4.91 and 4.5.