Best Winter Running Events in the UK 2025–26

It’s also when running feels most rewarding. Heading out through the quiet of a frosty park or lining up for a local race with your breath clouding in the cold reminds you why showing up matters. Across the UK, there’s no shortage of running events that keep motivation high once the big autumn races are done.

December brings community spirit, festive 5K runs and light-filled routes that make training fun again. Then January and February deliver smaller, sharper races that help runners rebuild rhythm and focus ahead of spring.

These eight winter runs capture that mix perfectly. From woodland trails to fast half marathons, they prove that progress doesn’t wait for perfect conditions.

Battersea Park Half Marathon

London: Sunday 14 December 2025

Ideal for: Runners chasing a flat, fast half before the holidays or looking to end their season on a high.

The Battersea Park Half Marathon is one of London’s best December runs. Its looping tarmac paths make pacing feel easy, and the riverside views keep it interesting throughout the course. Runners range from club regulars to newcomers taking the step up in distance for the first time. The blend gives the race an energy that’ll help you carry you to the finish line.

RunThrough’s organisation is sharp and reliable. You’ll cross the line with a medal, tired legs and that satisfying feeling that your year’s running finished the way it should.

Cannock Chase Forest Christmas Run

Staffordshire: Sunday 15 December 2025

Ideal for: Trail runners after festive fun, forest air and a relaxed crowd.

The Cannock Chase Forest Christmas Run captures the best of winter running. The course twists through pine trails with frost underfoot and open stretches between the trees. You can take on a 5K, 10K or junior fun run, all starting from a lively event hub – so there’s something for everyone.

Be prepared to make a fashion statement as fancy dress is common, marshals are upbeat, and nobody’s watching the clock too closely. It’s a cheerful mix of festive fun, running and celebration and a superb way to start winding down for the year.

Richmond Park December 5K, 10K & Half Marathon

London: Sunday 7 December 2025

Ideal for: Runners who like a scenic challenge and a year-end goal surrounded by nature.

For many Londoners, the Richmond Park December Run signals the start of winter. The course winds through open parkland and rolling paths, with deer often grazing nearby and skyline views in the distance.

You can take on 5K, 10K or half marathon distances, each clearly marked and well supported. Expect crisp air, steady climbs and a finish that feels properly earned. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your running year before the festive break.

Brass Monkey Half Marathon

York: Sunday 11 January 2026

Ideal for: Experienced runners chasing a flat, quick start to the new year.

The Brass Monkey Half Marathon is a northern favourite, and for good reason! It’s organised by York Knavesmire Harriers, and it’s known for calm conditions and fast times. The route begins at York Racecourse and heads out along quiet lanes, with runners enjoying the cool air on smooth roads throughout a simple out-and-back layout. It’s a top pick for anyone easing back into racing season in the new year.

Christmas Lights 5K Tour – Gentle Jingle

London: Friday 19 December 2025

Ideal for: Sociable runners keen on a festive evening jog through London’s Christmas glow.

The Christmas Lights 5K Tour – Gentle Jingle turns central London into a moving celebration. Groups jog at an easy pace through Oxford Street, Regent Street and Carnaby, getting snaps of the landmarks and enjoying the vibe of the capital as they go.

It’s part run, part sightseeing. That means no competition and no pressure! Exactly what you need just before Christmas – just enjoy keeping active while the city sparkles.

Running GP at Goodwood Motor Circuit

West Sussex: Sunday 18 January 2026

Ideal for: Runners who like structure and a perfectly measured track to test early-season form.

The Running GP at Goodwood Motor Circuit gives runners the thrill of racing on an iconic circuit. The asphalt is smooth, the bends are wide, and pacing stays steady from start to finish. Choose from 5K to marathon distances and settle into your target effort. Cool air and precise timing make this one a standout for runners chasing a strong start to the year.

Bellahouston Park Winter Run

Glasgow: Sunday 25 January 2026

Ideal for: Anyone who wants a quick, friendly race that feels both local and polished.

The Bellahouston Park Winter Run gathers Scotland’s running community each January. The route loops around wide park paths with long straights to find your rhythm and turns that keep things lively. The crowd’s brilliant even when it’s freezing. Locals cheer, marshals are faultless, and every finisher leaves with a medal worth keeping. Add a hot drink at the end, and it’s a winter classic.

ATW St Albans New Year’s Eve 10K

Hertfordshire: Wednesday 31 December 2025

Ideal for: Runners who like ending the year on a high and starting the next with intent.

The ATW St Albans New Year’s Eve 10K rounds off the calendar in style. The route through Highfield Park blends open stretches with quiet country lanes, offering a quick course and a cheerful end to December. Runners turn up ready to earn the evening ahead. The vibe’s upbeat, the route straightforward, and finishing just hours before midnight feels like ticking off the year properly.

Keep it going!

Running through winter builds more than fitness. It sharpens focus, strengthens habits and reminds you that progress comes from showing up, not waiting for perfect conditions. Each event here brings its own flavour, whether it’s community, challenge or momentum for the months ahead.

Check out our full range of UK winter runs and find the one that gets you out the door, whatever the forecast says. Progress never really stops; it just gets colder. And there’s no better reward than that post-run pasta or fry-up when you’ve earned it against the weather.