1. Hastings Half-Marathon, East SussexDate in 2012: March 25A staple of the British racing calendar, Hastings is packed with excited spring marathon runners, and the varied course is lined by cheering crowds – just the thing to help you push on up
follies, a Saxon fort, a Chalybeate spring and sand caves. Bring trail shoes and money for the beer tent afterwards. 4. Cross Bay Challenge 13.1, Flookburgh, CumbriaDate in 2012: August 12This unusual event not only crosses a tidal bay, but also ticks off
1. South Downs Marathon, Petersfield, Hants Date in 2012: June 9If you’re a hill junky then this is a must-do point-to-point marathon. It’s pretty much either going up or going down at any point and there’s over 1,200m of ascent in total. For those
Launched in 2010, the Brighton Marathon has taken the running scene by storm to become the UK’s third largest marathon with a field of 15,000. The fast course takes in Preston Park, the city centre and coastal roads, with panoramic views from the South
1. The Trionium Wife Carrying Race, Dorking, SurreyDate in 2012: March 18The shortest race in this year’s guide, the Trionium Wife Carrying Race is just 250m. But you’ll face obstacles and cover 10m of ascent – all while carrying your ‘wife’ (who
1. Abingdon MarathonOxfordshire, October 17 The team behind the race takes every measure each year to ensure that runners do maximum running and minimum thinking. The drinks are well placed, the flat course is thoughtfully worked out and chip
, October 3 Undeterred by abysmal weather, 1,000 runners completed this race this year. The 20-miler started in Dunsfold Aerodrome, the site of the BBC Top Gear track, and wound through the pretty village of Dunsfold before finishing back at the aerodrome
1. Southport MAD DOG Seaside 10K, MerseysideDate in 2012: February 12This year’s 10K top dog, a flat race taking in town, country and seaside scenery, also comes highly recommended for beginners. With chip timing, a medal, a techical tee memento (in
and baby jogger race. Enter online now.11. The Old Deer Park Richmond 10K, LondonEnter online now.12. Bluewater Sweatshop 10K, Kent13. ASICS British 10K London Run, London14. Hampshire Chronicle Winchester 10K, HampshireEnter online now.15. South London 10K
this speedy course, which attracts 2,000 PB-hunters each year. 7. Bramley 20/10, BerkshireDate in 2012: February 12The overwhelming feedback from you, the Runner’s World readers, was that for a 20-mile race it is surprisingly beginner-friendly. The course
