Chichester Marathon, Sussex: Sunday, July 21WHY RUN IT?Hills, challenge, meeting walkersThis marathon, held over the South Downs, is also part of an event primarily aimed at walkers, marchers and bikers, but is still suitable for runners.FEES£6

Clarendon Way Marathon, Winchester: Sunday, October 13WHY RUN IT?Scenery, challengeA cross-country marathon. Run along the Clarendon Way from Winchester College to Wyvern College near Salisbury. There is also a half-marathon and a four-stage relay

Cornish Marathon: Sunday, November 17WHY RUN IT?Challenge, scenery, Bodmin Moor, peaceA small winter road marathon, run over a tough, out-and-back course near Bodmin Moor with a 16-mile loop on the Moor itself.FEES£9/£10, payable to East Cornwall

Great Langdale Marathon, Cumbria Sunday, September 8WHY RUN IT?Challenge, scenery, Lake DistrictRun from the Great Langdale nalley near Ambleside, one of the most beautiful parts of the Lake District, this is one of the toughest marathons around

Leicester Marathon: Sunday, November 17WHY RUN IT?Challenge, scenery, motor-racing circuitHeld successfully for the first time in 2001, the race is run from Mallory Park Motor Racing Circuit. Held with a half-marathon.FEES£10/£11, payable

Snowdonia Marathon, Wales: Sunday, October 27WHY RUN IT?Challenge, sceneryOne of Britain’s toughest marathons, run over a scenic course in the shadow of Snowdon.FEES£10/£11, payable to The National Trust by September 30ENTRIES TONational Trust

Isle of Thanet Marathon, Kent: Sunday, September 8WHY RUN IT?Challenge, MargateReturning to its traditional 8 September date, this year’s race will have a new, mostly coastal course. The race is run with 10k and a fun run.FEES£9/£10, payable

over 50 events taking place across the length and breadth of the UK, our 2009 Marathon Index has all the inspiration you need to embrace your new (or next) marathon challenge. Exmoor Coastal Marathon, May 9 Spring When is it? What is it

Isle of Man Marathon: Sunday, August 11WHY RUN IT?Challenge, solitude, value for moneyOne of Britain’s best-value events (the price includes a buffet and transport to and from start), but also one of Britain’s smallest – only 78 ran last year

Isle of Wight Marathon: Saturday, May 18WHY RUN IT?Challenge, history, scenery, value for moneyBritain’s oldest marathon (first run in 1957) is one of the toughest, but best-value, events. FEES£6/£7, payable to Ryde Harriers by May 11. Entries