Christmas Countdown

The Bulwell Santa Run is a festive morning out in Nottingham with runners dressed as Santas, elves and reindeer. You can run, walk or Nordic walk your way around the course at a pace that suits you - just make sure you bring your best Christmas outfit!

Rather than a race, this is a guided jog past London’s Christmas lights. You’ll cover 10k through Mayfair and the West End, past the big displays, decorated trees and lit-up shop windows. There are dates to choose from throughout November and December, and fancy dress is welcome.

This one’s for everyone who insists Die Hard is a Christmas film. You can take on a full marathon or a half, both run in a Christmas jumper around a lapped course in Milton Keynes. It takes place on 23 December, and there are only 60 places up for grabs.

Earn your mince pies at Edinburgh’s Christmas Running Festival, a city tradition that’s been going for 22 years. Take your pick of a 5k or 10k around Inverleith Park, and there’s a Junior 1500m for the kids. The early start means you’ll be done in time for a festive brunch.

Swap the roads for the woods at this festive run through Salcey Forest in Northamptonshire. There’s a 5k and a 10k on the forest trails, plus a 1.2km Junior Fun Run for the kids. The best fancy dress wins a prize, and your entry helps Shelter.

Here’s one for Christmas morning itself. The Cracker Run sends you along the Thames at Staines, where you choose your distance on the day, from a 3k stroll up to a 50k ultra. Earn your Christmas dinner, then actually have it afterwards at The Last Hop for £50 a head.