Tempted to run a 10K? Here are 10 of our favourite races in the UK
A true test of speed and stamina, 10K is arguably the greatest running distance. To run it well requires expert pacing, determination and a willingness to suffer. While the world records for the distance are preposterously quick – 26:11 for men, 28:54 for women – the beauty of the distance is that it lends itself to watermark times for runners of all abilities. Beginner? See if you can break the hour. Improver? Try to run under 50 minutes. Advanced? The 40-minute mark is in your sights.
Whether you want to tick off your first 10K or source a venue for a new PB, we’ve rounded up the UK’s top 10K races to enter this year.
Best 10K races in the UK
Swansea Bay 10K
Where? Swansea, Wales
When? 14 September 2024
Taking place along the iconic sweep of Swansea Bay, this popular race is now in its 44th year, testament to its enduring popularity among speedsters and newbies alike. Both camps are likely drawn to the race for the same reason: it’s flat and fast. There’s plenty of vocal support along the route, too, and an excellent goody bag and medal to look forward to at the finish. Once you’ve wrapped up the running, you’ll also be in prime position to explore the nearby Gower Peninsula with its breathtaking sandy beaches and cobalt waters.
Eastleigh 10K
Where? Eastleigh, England
When? 23 March 2025
Nicknamed “the home of the PB”, the Eastleigh 10K is a racer’s dream. It’s extremely fast, attracts a competitive field and usually takes place in PB-conducive weather (ie. quite cold). It’s well organised and attracts about 800 runners each year. There’s a smattering of support on course, but this is not one for festival atmospheres or sightseeing. You come to Eastleigh to run fast.
Vitality London 10,000
Where? London, England
When? 28 September 2024
The route of this much-loved 10K race is a love letter to London, starting and finishing beside Buckingham Palace and skirting past architectural icons including the Houses of Parliament and St Paul’s Cathedral. Walkers to world-leading athletes and all made welcome at this event, which is held the day after the one-mile long, family friendly Vitality Westminster Mile – so why not do both and make a weekend of it?
Endurancelife Dorset 10K
Where? Swanage, England
When? 6 December 2025
Endurancelife’s well established coastal series prides itself on being two things: picturesque and punishing. The Dorset 10K is certainly both, starting at Worth Matravers, home to the renowned Square & Compass pub, it snakes its way east along the South West Coast Path, finishing at the lively seaside town of Swanage. There are some sharp hills in store, but also some incredible views. And the navigation should be straightforward, too: just keep the English Channel on your right.
Great Scottish Run
Where? Glasgow, Scotland
When? 5 October 2025
It’s fitting that Glasgow, known as Scotland’s friendliest city, should host such a well-loved 10K that attracts around 10,000 runners each year. The route features some of Glasgow’s finest sights – including The Hydro, Pacific Quay and the McLennan Arch – and you’ll be spoilt with some excellent post-race food and drink options, too.
Brighton and Hove 10K
Where? Brighton, England
When? 6 April 2025
The seaside city of Brighton is an ideal location for a fun, fast 10K with a buzzing festival feel. First time-time runners, charity runners and competitive runners gunning for a place on the podium all assemble at the start line on Hove Lawns, making it an inclusive event for runners of every kind.
Great Bristol Run
Where? Bristol, England
When? 11 May 2025
Featuring a fast, flat course, the Great Bristol 10K is another top choice for runners aiming for a PB this year. The route runs parallel to the historic Bristol Harbour and along Avon Gorge before taking in the sights of the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, making for a picturesque outing in the vibrant city of Bristol.
Great Manchester Run
Where? Manchester, England
When? 18 May 2025
The Great Manchester Run encompasses both a 10K and a half marathon and is the highly prized pinnacle of the city’s running calendar. Residents turn up in their droves to support 40,000 participants of all abilities as they run past landmarks including Old Trafford, the Imperial War Museum and The Lowry. The organisers call it ‘a party from start to finish’ – and it’s certainly a race to rave about.
The Wales 10K
Where? Pembrokeshire, Wales
When? 29 June 2025
The Wales 10K follows a point-to-point course from Manorbier to Tenby, located in the beautiful coastal county of Pembrokeshire. If a 10K race isn’t quite to your fancy, you could alternatively run the 5K, half marathon or full marathon taking place on the same day.
The London 10K
Where? London, England
When? 13 July 2025
If you’re keen to combine running with a bit of summertime sightseeing, then The London 10K could be your goal race for the year. With a flat course that careers past some of the most recognisable landmarks in the capital – including the London Eye and Big Ben – this event is a lively celebration of running with strong PB potential.
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