Want to get into running events but don’t know where to start?

Check out our handy list of fun and friendly running events and races that beginners can get stuck into.

ParkRun UK

Location: Nationwide

Date: EVERY Saturday

Link: http://www.parkrun.org.uk/

ParkRun is the perfect way to get into running events. They happen all over the country at 9am every Saturday. Although they are a timed 5k run, there’s no pressure or overbearing competitive nature and are great for if you’re looking to get fit, get into competitive running, or just looking for some way of dragging yourself out of bed on a lazy Saturday morning. Best thing about it, it’s totally free!

Find your local ParkRun here.

Chase the Sun

Location: Various, London

Date: Various

Link: https://www.letsdothis.com/o/runthrough-69173

Similar to ParkRun but less frequent, Chase the Sun runs happen all over London in parks such as Hyde Park, Crystal Palace, the Olympic Park and many more. Again with a friendly and non-competitive nature, you can do either a 5k or 10k run at your own pace without the pressure of professionals shooting past you!

The Big Fun Run Series

Location: Nationwide

Date: Throughout the Summer

Link: https://www.letsdothis.com/o/big-fun-run-25643

The Big Fun Run series is a series untimed 5k fun runs at 20 different locations all over the UK. The series is strictly for fun and to have fun while taking relaxed exercise. Since they’re untimed, there’s no pressure or competitive nature and everyone can run their 5000m in their own time. Suitable for all the family, the Big Fun Run series is perfect for anyone who wants to do a little bit of exercise while raising a bit of money in the process, so it’s good for the body and good for the conscience!

Great Manchester Run

Location: ManchesterDate: 28th May 2018

Link: https://www.letsdothis.com/e/great-manchester-run-18127

Perfect for those of any fitness level, the Great Manchester Run features both a 10k and half marathon to cater to all athletic abilities. Make your way around the heart of Manchester, spurred on by amazing musical entertainment, during this celebration of sport and community often seen as an all day running party around the city! You’ll pass by famous landmarks like the Old Trafford footy stadium and even past the well-known Coronation Streetcobbles.

Vitality London 10,000

Location: London

Link: https://www.letsdothis.com/e/vitality-london-10000-18139

Much like the above race, the London 10,000 is a very well organised and fun race that can be completed at any speed, whether you’re going for a new personal best or just looking for a challenge, this is a flat and fast course for all fitness levels and abilities. The course starts and finishes in the lovely, green St. James’s Park and is clearly maked at every kilometre so you know exactly where you are and if you’re on track to your goal!

Simplyhealth Great South Run

Location: Portsmouth

Link: https://www.letsdothis.com/e/great-south-run-5k-junior-mini-16882

Last on our list is the Great South Run. If you’re already completed a few 10k’s but don’t think you’ve got it in you to complete a half marathon, then why not meet halfway and do the Great South Run! With a flat 10 mile course, starting and finishing on the beautiful Southsea seafront, and with special permission to run past the historic HMS Victory and the Mary Rose, the Great South Run is a brilliantly organised and well-run event which has become widely known as one of the world’s premier 10 mile road races.