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Hackney Half

COVID Plan

Safety measures in place ·

Tickets on organiser’s site

Event summary

Experience the electric atmosphere of Hackney Half. Runners of all stripes will love this course that winds through the best that East London has to offer, supported by live bands and entertainment aplenty. This isn't just a race - it's a full-on festival.

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Your organiser

Limelight Sports Club

We share a passion for the active world. We believe in the power of sport to change behaviours, build communities and make a difference. We're for the first-timers, the fast-timers, the old-timers and the good-timers. We know this space better than anyone, yet we still learn something new each day. We're here with a purpose, for a purpose. We don't just talk about it. We just do it. We work and play as one team. Limelight Sports. Creating an active world. Together.

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How to enter

Tickets available until Thu Jul 01 2021

What's included:

Exclusive NIKE Dri-Fit Technical T-shirt
Finisher's Medal
Race Photos
Swag from Partners
Tote Bag (Half-Marathon Runners)
Bag drop
Chip-timed results

Half Marathon

9:00am Sun 26th Sep 2021

Run 13.1mi

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Free injury protection

COVID-19 safety measures

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What people think

4.6

49 reviews

Friendly atmosphere

Incredible crowds

Perfect for a pb

4.7

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

My first ever DNF. Went off too hard and injured hamstring couldn't cope. As ever, though, this was a great event with fantastic atmosphere throughout. We walked to a pub along the river afterwards which was a great way to celebrate those of us who had finished it!… read more

Josh H

4.7

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

After being out of the loop for a number of years this course is a great one to get back into it. Vibes the whole way around, every turn was exciting and the support along the way amazing. It really felt like you were being encouraged to dig deep the whole way around. Loved every moment of it and will definitely be back for 2020. … read more

Samuel B

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Awesome event - the atmosphere is just unreal! The community all really come out in support and make it electric! … read more

Frequently asked questions
FAQ
When can I collect my race pack for the Hackney Half Marathon?Race Numbers will be available for collection in Race Week. Exact times and locations will be available closer to the event. You will not be able to collect your race pack on the morning of the race.… read more
FAQ
Can I listen to personal headphones during the races at the Hackney Moves Festival?It is recommended that runners do not wear personal headphones both for safety reasons and to soak up the live entertainment on route!… read more
FAQ
What time does the Hackney Half Marathon start?The start time for Hackney Half Marathon is currently scheduled for 09:00.… read more

Running Event Distances
Running Event Distances
5k Runs10k RunsHalf MarathonsMarathonsUltramarathons10 Miles
Running Event Types
Running Event Types
CanicrossNight RunsFun RunsTrail RunsRelay RunsRoad RunsRunning Festivals
Running in London Parks
Running in London Parks
Battersea ParkRichmond Park
Popular Categories
Popular Categories
Running EventsHalf MarathonsHalf Ironman TriathlonsLondon Half MarathonsObstacle Course Events

Route description

Move silly or serious in the UK's largest outdoor fitness festival run over 3 awesome days. With two unique and iconic running events, live music, local food and drink and other entertainment this is a memorable experience to say the least.

The Hackney Moves Festival features a Half Marathon and a 5k, and lots of other fitness fun from partners.

The whole event will have live entertainment and DJs to keep you inspired, not just at event centres but during the races both at event HQ and on race routes. So there will be no need for headphones as the streets will be alive with music, and the buzzing atmosphere.

The Route

Runners will cruise down Mare Street through a carnival of sound. You will pass some iconic landmarks and venues of the area, including the famous Town Hall, the historic Broadway Market and Hackney Wick, which will be full of vibrant street art.

Not only will this be a spectacular route with all the sights and sounds to take in, it is also flat and fast for anyone looking for a personal best time.

While the 2021 Route will be similar to previous years, keep an eye out for the updated map which will be released closer to the event date.

4.7

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Josh H

4.7

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Samuel B

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Awesome event - the atmosphere is just unreal! The community all really come out in support and make it electric!

Al C

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Well organised, great atmosphere and music. Amazing event and race village at the end a festival feel ! Will definitely be going back for a 3rd time !

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2018

i Have done 4 half marathons and by far this is my favourite. Beating Paris, Wimbledon Common and Birmingham. Organisation was amazing and the support ALL around the course helped me to get a PB!!!

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

This was my second year running this event and I absolutely loved it. From bib collection to crossing the finish line, the Virgin team go out of their way to put on a great experience. A combination of the weather being cooler this year, and the fact I had actually done some training leading up to to the race, helped me shave a couple of minutes off my time and set a new PB. Looking forward to coming back next year. And last but not least, as always, The Princess of Wales is the perfect post-race pub.

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

I highly enjoyed the Hackney Half this year! It was my second half and it was a completely different experience to the first. The atmosphere was amazing and really carried me round the course. i ended up knocking 20 mins off my first one last year. I highly recoment the Hackney half to anyone looking for a good fun run to do - it was brilliant fun and i really felt that i achieved something! Looking forwad to doing the 2020 one already!

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

A really fun and well organised race. Everything from the pre-race communication through to super easy bag drop (and collect) made it simple. Good food and drink options, clear meeting points etc. so logistically there was zero stress. The route was great and well supported throughout. It's pretty flat with a few ups and downs but a good entry level race which suited me perfectly. The location is a bit tricky to get to as it was a reasonable walk from the jubilee line.

4.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Perhaps I'm a little spoiled with the scenery around South West London but the HH course was a little drab and empty in places early on. This was made up for by the troops of supporters down the line who were fab (shout out to the Run Dem Crew station and the GoodGym water station). There are a few unsuspecting hills particularly towards the end so be prepared for that. The water stations are really slow (i.e. lots of people queuing for them) but I think that's more a symptom of the huge number of people running which also makes it so awesome!

4.3

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

A great day with great people! More loos on the course would be great and in the festival village... but aside from that it was excellent and the volunteers are amazing! Well done to people making it happen for others!

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Brillant day well supported and my kids loved all activities after. defo doing next year. Oh i got a Pb too. fab defo recommend.

3.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

For the groups, there seemed to be no organization or control. Basically I was mixed in with 3 to 4 other letters and had no clue what pace to keep, it just seemed like you didn't even need to wait you could just queue. In the beginning of the ran, the very beginning, there were a lot of walkers and as a runner this is frustrating because you have to then weave through people. Then the pacers, at one second I am behind someone at 2:10 and then I pass them and I was at a 2:20, and it just didn't seem like it was clear and obviously we were all mixed so you couldn't really tell. I didn't like the full running in the streets that was not exactly what I expected, especially since we started in a large park. Lastly, I was marked as did not finish when I most definitely finished and received a message giving me my time, I wrote to the organisers over a week ago and no one has responded to me or updated my time. I doubt I will do this specific half marathon again.

4.7

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Great for first timers (like myself), the course is pretty flat and it has a great atmosphere until mile 11. then you mentally struggle to keep going because it is so quiet. the festival village has lots going on and you get loads of goodies and a free massage.

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Amazing event. More than a race... it’s a melting pot of fun, people, culture and music. One of the best half marathons you can do. Still buzzing a week after! Do it!!

4.3

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Pre / post race facilities and entertainment was excellent. So was the atmosphere on the course. The course could be even better if more time spent in Victoria and / or other parks and not so much in residential areas. Overall a great day - will consider doing it again in the future!

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

This was my first half marathon and I ran it alone with no friends or family as support but I didn’t once feel Alone. It was an incredible run and the support and atmosphere was electric. It certainly helped me and made me feel amazing about what I was doing. The drinks and sweets on root were a massive help but the fun at the festival village after was awesome. A fantastic all round day x

4.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Great event and super friendly feel. Organisation is good but a couple errors - not enough toilets! The second being that water stops were only on one side of the road which caused congestion for such a busy race. But overall would run it again for the atmosphere!

4.3

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Good organisation. Loo queues were horrendous as usual. Best Atmosphere I've ever experienced on a Half Marathon.

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

A really well organised race with a massive & awesome race village. Decent medal t short & goody bag at the end

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Great fun! Definitely worth taking part in. Great music and atmosphere. Very well organised and lots of spectators keeping you going.

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Fantastic event. Really well organised with a good course. Huge amounts of support throughout which really spurs you on.

3.7

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

It was generally a flat course but with many corners to turn. The atmosphere during the course was lovely, the best part was around mile 11 when the RunDemCrew guys were cheering like mad - it helped! The Hackney Fitness Festival where the event starts and ends had an amazing atmosphere with many events/businesses going on. One thing to be improved is the number of toilets available - I've done a few marathons but never seen any queues as long as those.

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Nothing to fault of the run. The only thing I would change was the cups for water, appreciate the environment issues of plastic bottles, but was hard to run drinking from a cup, which meant stopping whenever you needed to hydrate.

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Absolutely incredible atmosphere. Loved that spectators had the ability to track where you were on the course, made it a brilliant experience for them too

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2018

My first half marathon: Hackney was wonderful. Top notch organisation, wonderful support and a truly unforgettable day.

3.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

The atmosphere and crowd support were amazing but the water stations were a shambles, people had to queue up at every one. The finish area was also chaotic unfortunately, it’s like they weren’t prepared for the volume of runners

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Absolutely brilliant on all fronts. Very efficiently organised, no queues for depositing/ picking up bags. They listened to us and altered the route from last year, so we had maximum crowd support and bands more so the 2nd half, but particularly the last 2miles when you are really pushing it. I felt like I was running in the Olympics. Lol. Efficient well spread out drink stations. And great atmosphere. Supports everyone from the the site all the way to the person who takes 4 and half hours. Well done Hackney

4.7

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Enjoyed it a lot. Great atmosphere, very busy with lots of food stalls and free samples. Course was good too, not too hilly. Just two points for improvement were that it took over 40 mins from lining up at the required time to actually getting to the start line. Also, the area after the finish line needs opening up. It felt like we were 'kettled in' as we hit a solid mass of people straight after the finish line. Otherwise, the best half I have done except for the Great North Run

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

My cousin did it and it was great so many people turned up for this geat event I would advise everyone to do this

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

I've run heaps of half marathons and this was easily the best in terms of course (super flat and winding its ways through the whole Hackney community), atmosphere (bands all along the course and the post race festival) and organisation. Only issue I heard was from spectators who struggled to get around because of crowds - maybe more marshalling is needed to guide spectators from train stations etc.

4.7

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

The course was flat, well maintained, and properly cordoned off. The crowd was extremely enthusiastic, and the weather was perfect. It was also pretty awesome running with a crowd of 20,000 other people pushing you on.I didn't do as well as I was hoping to, but that's on me for going out too fast and dying. The race was well run, and I'll be back next year.

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

What an event! The crowds and the atmosphere were so lively providing an abundance of energy and excitement to the race. Loads of epic free-bies, amazing medal and t-shirt!

4.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

It was a great run and good to see so many people taking part. The 2hr 10 and 2hr 5 Pacers started in front of the 2 hrs Pacers, so not very clear and with the water stations you had to queue to get water and miss out on stations.Thank you to all the volunteers etc that made the event happen.

3.7

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

The not plastic idea didn’t work at the water stations. Cups weren’t available quickly enough for the amount of runners which meant queues and personally no fluid intake at the first or second water stations. This plastic free run clearly didn’t work. Pacers weren’t sure where they should be either once the pens were opened. Quite a bit chaotic. I don’t think I’d do this run again unless better organised.

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

This was a very well organised race particularly the start. I felt calm and ready for anything ("Utrinque Paratus"). This was my first time running the Hackney Half and I would recommend this as a must do race. The crowds were having a great time and very supportive. The confetti, chalk writing on the roads and music really made this feel like a new and memorable experience. I also thought the t-shirt and medal was very cool. Great Job Virgin Sport!

4.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Great race with good support and music but the water stations were awful. There was either no water ready in cups or barely more than a mouthful in others. Lost loads of time having to stop and wait! Sort that and you have a cracking race.

2.3

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

The water station were very bad organised. There were no water ready when the running arrived to the station. So we had to stop and wait.At the beginning the pavers were all over the place. I meant to go with the 2:10... however the was not a specific order when we were at final pens.Tried to catch up the pacer for the 3 miles, stop after 6 miles for water and then.....I didn't see any other pacer pacing by. Really confusing.Ps: the course was not really flat, wasn't it??I don't think I will do this race again next year.Quite disappointed.

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

We simply loved it. Great organisation, amazing supporters/volunteers. Looking forward to come back next year.

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

This event is HUGE! A three day festival FULL of activities, stalls, food, drinks and there's an infectious energy in the whole atmosphere from the moment your arrive! The community spirit on steroids, you can't fail to smile, cheer, challenge yourself and encourage others. Lap up the support and anyone can smash this half.

4.3

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

The only negative I have is the public crossing the road with no thought for the runners with bikes and prams etc someone could get injured quite easilyOther than that fantastic race, great atmosphere with bands etc

4.3

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Great atmosphere and support; it’s a huge event so course itself was quite busy. The race village looked great.

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2019

Absolutely awesome race. The atmosphere was phenomenal with people screaming your name the entire way round the course. Live bands and DJs meant that there was rarely a quiet moment on the course which really helped. The medal and t-shirt were both really high quality. Everything about the race made it feel like every penny of the race entry went towards the race, so felt really worthwhile. 10/10 would absolutely recommend to anyone.

4.7

Did the Half Marathon in 2018

After a few years, the hackney half is a damn good race now. The event village is impressive, the route is nice and has some very nice east London locations covered, the crowds are also amazing. East London is a place very proud of itself. Nice t-shirt as well.

4.3

Did the Half Marathon in 2018

This is a very good race. Good route taking in some great landmarks and parts of Hackney and very well organised.

4.7

Did the Half Marathon in 2016

Really great atmosphere with crowds and music around the course. It was SO hot that year, but there were loads of drink stations, which kept us going!

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2018

Did this with my sister as her first every half marathon and it was brilliant. The support all the way around is incredible and the app so spectators can see exactly where you are and come to find you was awesome. Sister had a great time and is now looking for her next half marathon and will try to find another Virgin event. There are a lot of runners and it can get pretty congested so not sure it's necessarily the best race for a PB but the support is amazing and, for a first timer, it really is the perfect race

4.7

Did the Half Marathon in 2018

A really great race, absolutely loved the atmosphere, it was like a mini London Marathon! Lots of lovely people lining the streets cheering you on. It was a really hot day but they had lots of water stops and Nuun electrolyte drinks. Really worth the price. An absolute cut above other races in organisation, atmosphere and number of entrants. It was a proper festival with food stands, music and a main stage. Bag drop was super slick, always a huge queue for the loos but generally everything was extremely well organised. Course is definitely 'undulating' though!

4.3

Did the Half Marathon in 2017

Though London courses are never the most beautiful, but Virgin Sport do an incredible job of making an awesome vibe - having the beer tents, music and general Hackney 'hipster' vibe of course helps with this - loved the new addition of the 'ramp of doom' as well to the race! Though it did feel a little on the pricey side, it didn't overly bother me as the party directly afterwards makes a whole day of it - how many things like this can you do in London for cheaper these days anyway?! Overall I highly recommend it, and a real chance to post a decent time whether just starting your running journey or competing to be your best!

5.0

Did the Half Marathon in 2017

Loved this race last year! Such an awesome atmosphere along the whole route with bands everywhere and huge crowds. The event village afterwards was great. Would probably get my vote for the best half marathon in the country - worth the premium price.

4.6

49 reviews

Friendly atmosphere

Incredible crowds

Perfect for a pb

Rate this event

Logistics and schedule
Sunday
09:00 Hackney Half Marathon Start Time
With 24,000 runners taking part, it is recommended that you get to the start at least 1 hour before the race.
Hackney Moves Festival and 5k
The Hackney Moves Festival runs from Friday to Sunday, with live music, food and drink and much more. Alongside the Half Marathon, there is also the Hackney 5k taking place on the Saturday.
Event Information
Runners will receive all necessary information in the Race Day Guide, which will be emailed to runners shortly before race weekend.
Race Numbers will be available for collection in Race Week. Exact times and locations will be available closer to the event.
You will not be able to collect your race pack on the morning of the race.
Cut-off Times
The Half Marathon has a cut-off time of 3 hours 30 minutes.
How to get there
Hackney Marshes, London E9 5PY, UK
Get directionsExternalLink
More travel information will be available in the Race Day Guide.
Public Transport
Leyton Tube Station, Lea Bridge Station and Hackney Central Station are the closest to the venue.

Frequently asked questions
FAQ
When can I collect my race pack for the Hackney Half Marathon?
Race Numbers will be available for collection in Race Week. Exact times and locations will be available closer to the event. You will not be able to collect your race pack on the morning of the race.
FAQ
Can I listen to personal headphones during the races at the Hackney Moves Festival?
It is recommended that runners do not wear personal headphones both for safety reasons and to soak up the live entertainment on route!
FAQ
What time does the Hackney Half Marathon start?
The start time for Hackney Half Marathon is currently scheduled for 09:00.
FAQ
Is there an age requirement to participate in the Hackney Moves Festival?
Yes, participants must be 17 years or older.
FAQ
Will there be a bag drop for the Hackney Half Marathon?
Yes, there will be a space to store your bag whilst you run. You will receive a kit bag along with your race number, which will also contain your bag label and bag collection tab. 
FAQ
Will there be changing facilities at the Hackney Half Marathon?
There usually are changing facilities available, this will depend on Covid restrictions and will be confirmed in the Race Day Guide info sent to you by email before the event.
Booking related questionsDo you have a question about bookings, cancellations, or refunds?

Half Marathon

9:00am Sun 26th Sep 2021

Tickets on organiser’s site

Hackney Half

Event summary

Looks like tickets for this event aren’t available, here are some similar events you can book today:

Looks like tickets for this event aren’t available, here are some similar events you can book today:

Your organiser

How to enter

Half Marathon

Benefits of booking with Let's Do This

Stay up-to-date

What people think

Frequently asked questions

FAQWhen can I collect my race pack for the Hackney Half Marathon?

FAQCan I listen to personal headphones during the races at the Hackney Moves Festival?

FAQWhat time does the Hackney Half Marathon start?

Running Event Distances

Running Event Distances

Running Event Types

Running Event Types

Running in London Parks

Running in London Parks

Popular Categories

Popular Categories

Route description

Route description

Half Marathon

Route description

Route description

Half Marathon

When can I collect my race pack for the Hackney Half Marathon?

Can I listen to personal headphones during the races at the Hackney Moves Festival?

What time does the Hackney Half Marathon start?