Edinburgh Marathon Festival - Half Marathon

Starting on Potterrow with the picturesque backdrop of The University of Edinburgh’s McEwan Hall, this incredible city centre route takes you past many iconic sights of the city.


Turning the first corner you’ll make your way past Greyfriars Kirkyard, home to the statue of Edinburgh’s favourite dog who spent 14 years guarding the grave of his owner - Greyfriars Bobby.


Continuing on into the city's old town, you’ll cross over the Royal Mile, with St Giles Cathedral to your right and the iconic Edinburgh Castle to your left, before heading down the Mound into New Town.


You’ll run through the beautiful Princes Street Gardens where you will see the Scott Monument - a towering gothic monument dedicated to Sir Walter Scott


The route then turns back up to the historic Royal Mile, heading past the breathtaking architecture of the Scottish Parliament building. From here you can look up and take in the spectacular Arthurs Seat & Salisbury Crags, as well as the Palace of Holyrood, before departing the Royal Park and heading east towards the coast, taking in the sea air of Portobello promenade..


As you reach Musselburgh, you’ll run past the oldest golf course in the world, where it’s documented that golf has been played as early as 1672, before heading further East on the flat towards the historic village of Prestonpans before turning and heading back towards the beautiful finish line within the vast playing fields of Pinkie School.

With a descent of almost 90 metres to near sea level, we believe this is the fastest half marathon route in the world.

Wicking finisher's t-shirt
Finisher's medal & distance keyring
Finisher's pack
Personalised event number with accurate timing chip
Event baggage facilities
Hydration & energy gel on route
Hydration & nutrition at the finish
Results posted in your account within 48 hours
Fantastic running experience

There will be EMF Event Buses operating for the Team Relay, Half Marathon and Full Marathon events for participants and spectators. Park & Ride EMF Event Buses operate between Newcraighall, Straiton, Sheriffhall and Wallyford Park & Ride sites, from which you can travel to the Start or Finish of the events.