Edinburgh Running: Marathons and Runs in Scotland's Capital

Each year, countless Edinburgh residents and visitors alike lace up their running shoes and take to the city's streets for its various annual marathons and runs. Some run competitively, while others do so leisurely. All are a part of something bigger: an effort to raise awareness and fundraise for various causes.



The Bupa Great Winter Run - open to runners aged 14 and over - kicks off the city's string of running events in early January with a 5km run in scenic Holyrood Park. Many people run for charity, while others do it to initiate an active year for themselves. The event also includes the Bupa Junior Great Winter Run - spanning 2.5 km and open to youngsters aged 7-13 - and the Bupa Great Edinburgh International X Country Run - best for middle distance runners.



The Bupa Great Edinburgh Run - a 10km run held in early May - is perhaps one of the city's most popular runs, due to the fact that the route leads runners past some of Edinburgh's most iconic sights. The event attracts some 10,000 runners annually, and is open to participants at all fitness levels. And, while registration is not required for this event, those who plan to fundraise for a charity or run competitively must register before running.



Next in line for the year is the Edinburgh Marathon, held in late May and expected to attract about 16,500 runners this year. Measuring in at 26.2 miles, this is a full marathon event, and therefore attracts runners at fairly good fitness levels. Event organisers offer training advice and fundraising ideas to participants, while many participant join efforts in both realms. This is a Cancer Research UK event, raising funds to support finding a cure for cancer.



For those who aren't quite ready for a full marathon, the Scottish Half Marathon - also a Cancer Research UK event - is held on the same day as the Edinburgh Marathon. It starts a little earlier than the Edinburgh Marathon, and ends at the Musselburgh Racecourse in Edinburgh. It sees some 25,000 runners come out each year, and is another one of the city's most popular running events.



And finally, the Scotland Kilomathon - another marathon measuring 26.3 miles - is the latest addition to Edinburgh's famed runs and marathons. It's held in early October, and is organised by the same group that puts together the Edinburgh Marathon for Cancer Research UK.



With a running event to suit every level of fitness and running experience, it's no wonder Edinburgh's runs and marathons attract so many people each year. The events also make for a great opportunity to sightsee in the city, either before or after the actual running event. Just remember to book your hotels in Edinburgh early if you plan to run in any of these events, as accommodations tend to fill up quickly with runners and event supporters.



Isla Campbell writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.