Oxford Half Marathon
Event summary
Enjoy this fast and and flat half marathon through the historic university city of Oxford, the home of the 4 minute mile. Speeding past the famous sights, museums and colleges you're sure to finish this one feeling a sense of both achievement and culture.
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Your organiser
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.
Volunteer
We’re always looking for volunteers to help make these events epic.
Find out moreHow to enter
Tickets available until Sun Mar 28 2021
What's included:
- Finisher's T-shirt
- Finisher's medal
- Official race photos
- Swag bag from partners
- Baggage drop
Half Marathon - Enter the Ballot
9:30am Sun 17th Oct 2021
Run 21.1km
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What people think
4.421 reviews
Friendly atmosphere
Incredible crowds
Perfect for a pb
I've never done a Half Marathon before: this was my first at the age of 68. I loved it, and found it extremely well organized. The route is a bit on the dull side, but the compensating factor is that it is flat as a pancake (and for me very easy to get to by bus). It was amazing that although my number was covered up by my jacket, I was able to submit a photograph and be given pictures of myself (at no cost). My only criticisms are: (1) at the end when my legs were hardly working I had to walk a long way to collect my goodie bag and (2) the queues at the toilets at Marston. I only really wanted the t-shirt in the goodie bag: I think people should be offered this option. Also it isn't really very green to include an aerosol: I won't use it, but don't know how to dispose of one that is full… read more
Unfortunately the weather wasn't on our side for this half and Virgin didn't really cater for this when really, they could have as it was forecast to be a pretty wet and grim day. There were no shelters for the runners pre-race and the changing facilities were so small, we all had to line up in the cold and wet just to squeeze in and get changed after the event - Ealing half provided changing tents twice the size! They ran out of small mens t-shirts and when we questioned the bloke giving the tee's out, he was quite rude to us about it which was unnecessary as we'd put small mens on our application; we settled for a medium women's and will just have to deal with the typical women's sleeves! The goody bag was pretty decent!The start pens weren't as clearly marked as they should have been and lead everyone to believe the D pen (where we were) was C pen, so they need to sort that out. They also bolstered that it was perfectly measured out, yet I ended up running 21.75km, not 21.1km; luckily it's a fairly flat course and I still came in under 2 hours. Although it was very wet, very cold and very miserable, the crowds were really lovely and encouraging, but it's a shame some of runners weren't, as they had no problem pushing you out of the way to get in front of you with not even a word of apology to follow - not very 'runner' spirited. Getting to the event was easy peasy with Park and Ride - so I highly recommend using that if you're to do this race.The medal was average to be fair, and the scenery wasn't as epic as I expected considering where we were - my fave part was going through the park/woods bit - but otherwise a pretty decent race; however, it's one I wouldn't really do again - especially not for a ballot place.… read more
Frequently asked questions
How do I enter the Oxford Half Marathon?
Due to the popularity of the Oxford Half, entry is done through a ballot system. If your ballot entry was unsuccessful, you can secure your place through one of the charity partners, and run for a good cause.… read moreWhen will I receive my race pack for the Oxford Half Marathon?
Race packs can be collected from the Race Village on Oxford University Parks the day before the event. If you'd prefer for your pack to be posted to you, you will need to pay for this when registering.… read moreIs there music on the Oxford Half Marathon course?
There will be DJs, local bands and live music throughout the course to motivate you until you cross the finish line.… read moreRunning Events in the United Kingdom
Running Events in the United Kingdom
Route description
Route description
The course begins at Broad Street, near Trinity College. Along the way, participants will be treated to plenty of Oxford's stunning architecture and live entertainment.
A flat course, this is a great opportunity to chase down a new PB. Runners breeze past the River Cherwell and Lady Margaret Hall among others, and will end their race on Park Road.
I've never done a Half Marathon before: this was my first at the age of 68. I loved it, and found it extremely well organized. The route is a bit on the dull side, but the compensating factor is that it is flat as a pancake (and for me very easy to get to by bus). It was amazing that although my number was covered up by my jacket, I was able to submit a photograph and be given pictures of myself (at no cost). My only criticisms are: (1) at the end when my legs were hardly working I had to walk a long way to collect my goodie bag and (2) the queues at the toilets at Marston. I only really wanted the t-shirt in the goodie bag: I think people should be offered this option. Also it isn't really very green to include an aerosol: I won't use it, but don't know how to dispose of one that is full
In all honesty I'd not urge anyone to do this marathon. There is little of Oxford you see. The goody bag is a half mile walk from the finish line. Marshalls in the race village trying to tell you which way you can and can't go. Avoid
Unfortunately the weather wasn't on our side for this half and Virgin didn't really cater for this when really, they could have as it was forecast to be a pretty wet and grim day. There were no shelters for the runners pre-race and the changing facilities were so small, we all had to line up in the cold and wet just to squeeze in and get changed after the event - Ealing half provided changing tents twice the size! They ran out of small mens t-shirts and when we questioned the bloke giving the tee's out, he was quite rude to us about it which was unnecessary as we'd put small mens on our application; we settled for a medium women's and will just have to deal with the typical women's sleeves! The goody bag was pretty decent!The start pens weren't as clearly marked as they should have been and lead everyone to believe the D pen (where we were) was C pen, so they need to sort that out. They also bolstered that it was perfectly measured out, yet I ended up running 21.75km, not 21.1km; luckily it's a fairly flat course and I still came in under 2 hours. Although it was very wet, very cold and very miserable, the crowds were really lovely and encouraging, but it's a shame some of runners weren't, as they had no problem pushing you out of the way to get in front of you with not even a word of apology to follow - not very 'runner' spirited. Getting to the event was easy peasy with Park and Ride - so I highly recommend using that if you're to do this race.The medal was average to be fair, and the scenery wasn't as epic as I expected considering where we were - my fave part was going through the park/woods bit - but otherwise a pretty decent race; however, it's one I wouldn't really do again - especially not for a ballot place.
Great race for a PB as nice and flat. Route does double back on itself a few times so can get a bit demoralising seeing someone 3miles ahead of you! It is expensive though and factor in parking costs too I think there’s better value races for me. The supporters out on the route were great especially as it rained non stop. Would I do it next year..not sure yet
I am completing an A-Z in half marathons so this was required for the letter O. The weather was awful and there was torrential rain but there was a good crowd supporting which was surprising given a he weather conditions
I love this course! This was my second go at this half and it’s given me a nice little pb! Thank you for organising such a great event! The public was awesome... as usual
I think my view may be slightly tainted by the truly disgusting weather on the day, which rendered the race village a soggy muddy mess! The walk from the race village to the start seemed quite long, and a bit of a rush for many, including myself who hadn't realised and didn't allow ample time for the walk. However, I did enjoy the race despite the conditions. I was impressed with the crowd support, considering the aforementioned torrential rain. Some parts of the course were narrow and crowded, I found that I 'd run 0.5 km more than a half marathon at the end, probably due to all the weaving between slower runners. Overall, I think I will come back and do this race again next year, hopefully in nicer conditions, which I think will enhance my enjoyment of the day
My first half, great atmosphere and well organised at the event.The park and ride was very poor - long queues heading to the event from Thornhill park & ride (not enought buses).The directions to the correct bus stop for departure after the race were poor and many runners commented about this.
On such a wet day, I wasn’t expecting to love a race so much! So much support on the course from spectators and marshalls - I grinned the whole way round. Organisation left a lot to be desired however. Race village was confusing, as was how to find the start pens (we walked waaaay out of our way), and at the end my husband who was spectating on the course struggled to reach me because of difficulties crossing the course/entering the race village. Made an otherwise amazing run very stressful.
Despite the weather's best efforts, the atmosphere of this race was fantastic and really well organised in terms of getting everyone where they should be.
Well organised event, torrential rain didn't ruin it! The changing areas were too small, particularly in bad weather when everyone wanted to get changed after the event. Also the changing area was on wet grass in a tent. Carpet was outside but not inside the tent.Great festival vibes, lovely medal and t-shirt. Goody bag was great! It was lovely to run around Oxfords beautiful landmarks
A great race and really well organised. Big event so always running with people and supporters pretty much the whole way along the course. Oxford's not a big place so the part of the run in the centre is quite small but the final few miles around University Parks and into the centre was beautiful. Nice finishers T-Shirts too!
Make sure you get to the park and rides early.Overall a great route which is relatively flat and easy running
This is genuinely just a really great race. The atmosphere was awesome the whole way round and it really does have a properly festival vibe. I think this was the inaugural race but it didn't have any of the feeling of being a first time outing, organisation was slick and everything ran very smoothly. The only issue I had with it was it felt like they had got to the end and realised they hadn't made the course long enough so rather than some epic finish line stretch a la the london marathon you had about 8 switch backs which really hurt your rhythm and your time in the last Km. Except for that though it really was epic and will totally be back next year!
4.421 reviews
Friendly atmosphere
Incredible crowds
Perfect for a pb
Rate this event
Logistics and schedule
Schedule
09:30 Half Marathon Starts
There will be a 3 hour and 30 minute cut-off time for participants to finish the race.
How to get there
48-51 Broad St, Oxford OX1 3BQ, UK
Get directionsRace Start: Broad Street
Race Finish: Parks Road
Festival Village: Oxford University Parks
Frequently asked questions
How do I enter the Oxford Half Marathon?
Due to the popularity of the Oxford Half, entry is done through a ballot system. If your ballot entry was unsuccessful, you can secure your place through one of the charity partners, and run for a good cause.When will I receive my race pack for the Oxford Half Marathon?
Race packs can be collected from the Race Village on Oxford University Parks the day before the event. If you'd prefer for your pack to be posted to you, you will need to pay for this when registering.Is there music on the Oxford Half Marathon course?
There will be DJs, local bands and live music throughout the course to motivate you until you cross the finish line.Is there a bag drop at the Oxford Half Marathon?
Yes, there will be a bag drop for participants while they race.Booking related questionsDo you have a question about bookings, cancellations, or refunds?
Half Marathon - Enter the Ballot
9:30am Sun 17th Oct 2021
Interested in volunteering at this event?
Organisers are always looking for an extra pair of hands and there are plenty of roles to fill!
Complete this short form and the organiser will be in touch.
By submitting, you’re accepting that we’ll pass your details onto the event organiser. We won’t pass your details onto anyone else.
Route description
Route description
The course begins at Broad Street, near Trinity College. Along the way, participants will be treated to plenty of Oxford's stunning architecture and live entertainment.
A flat course, this is a great opportunity to chase down a new PB. Runners breeze past the River Cherwell and Lady Margaret Hall among others, and will end their race on Park Road.
I've never done a Half Marathon before: this was my first at the age of 68. I loved it, and found it extremely well organized. The route is a bit on the dull side, but the compensating factor is that it is flat as a pancake (and for me very easy to get to by bus). It was amazing that although my number was covered up by my jacket, I was able to submit a photograph and be given pictures of myself (at no cost). My only criticisms are: (1) at the end when my legs were hardly working I had to walk a long way to collect my goodie bag and (2) the queues at the toilets at Marston. I only really wanted the t-shirt in the goodie bag: I think people should be offered this option. Also it isn't really very green to include an aerosol: I won't use it, but don't know how to dispose of one that is full
In all honesty I'd not urge anyone to do this marathon. There is little of Oxford you see. The goody bag is a half mile walk from the finish line. Marshalls in the race village trying to tell you which way you can and can't go. Avoid
Unfortunately the weather wasn't on our side for this half and Virgin didn't really cater for this when really, they could have as it was forecast to be a pretty wet and grim day. There were no shelters for the runners pre-race and the changing facilities were so small, we all had to line up in the cold and wet just to squeeze in and get changed after the event - Ealing half provided changing tents twice the size! They ran out of small mens t-shirts and when we questioned the bloke giving the tee's out, he was quite rude to us about it which was unnecessary as we'd put small mens on our application; we settled for a medium women's and will just have to deal with the typical women's sleeves! The goody bag was pretty decent!The start pens weren't as clearly marked as they should have been and lead everyone to believe the D pen (where we were) was C pen, so they need to sort that out. They also bolstered that it was perfectly measured out, yet I ended up running 21.75km, not 21.1km; luckily it's a fairly flat course and I still came in under 2 hours. Although it was very wet, very cold and very miserable, the crowds were really lovely and encouraging, but it's a shame some of runners weren't, as they had no problem pushing you out of the way to get in front of you with not even a word of apology to follow - not very 'runner' spirited. Getting to the event was easy peasy with Park and Ride - so I highly recommend using that if you're to do this race.The medal was average to be fair, and the scenery wasn't as epic as I expected considering where we were - my fave part was going through the park/woods bit - but otherwise a pretty decent race; however, it's one I wouldn't really do again - especially not for a ballot place.
Great race for a PB as nice and flat. Route does double back on itself a few times so can get a bit demoralising seeing someone 3miles ahead of you! It is expensive though and factor in parking costs too I think there’s better value races for me. The supporters out on the route were great especially as it rained non stop. Would I do it next year..not sure yet
I am completing an A-Z in half marathons so this was required for the letter O. The weather was awful and there was torrential rain but there was a good crowd supporting which was surprising given a he weather conditions
I love this course! This was my second go at this half and it’s given me a nice little pb! Thank you for organising such a great event! The public was awesome... as usual
I think my view may be slightly tainted by the truly disgusting weather on the day, which rendered the race village a soggy muddy mess! The walk from the race village to the start seemed quite long, and a bit of a rush for many, including myself who hadn't realised and didn't allow ample time for the walk. However, I did enjoy the race despite the conditions. I was impressed with the crowd support, considering the aforementioned torrential rain. Some parts of the course were narrow and crowded, I found that I 'd run 0.5 km more than a half marathon at the end, probably due to all the weaving between slower runners. Overall, I think I will come back and do this race again next year, hopefully in nicer conditions, which I think will enhance my enjoyment of the day
My first half, great atmosphere and well organised at the event.The park and ride was very poor - long queues heading to the event from Thornhill park & ride (not enought buses).The directions to the correct bus stop for departure after the race were poor and many runners commented about this.
On such a wet day, I wasn’t expecting to love a race so much! So much support on the course from spectators and marshalls - I grinned the whole way round. Organisation left a lot to be desired however. Race village was confusing, as was how to find the start pens (we walked waaaay out of our way), and at the end my husband who was spectating on the course struggled to reach me because of difficulties crossing the course/entering the race village. Made an otherwise amazing run very stressful.
Despite the weather's best efforts, the atmosphere of this race was fantastic and really well organised in terms of getting everyone where they should be.
Well organised event, torrential rain didn't ruin it! The changing areas were too small, particularly in bad weather when everyone wanted to get changed after the event. Also the changing area was on wet grass in a tent. Carpet was outside but not inside the tent.Great festival vibes, lovely medal and t-shirt. Goody bag was great! It was lovely to run around Oxfords beautiful landmarks
A great race and really well organised. Big event so always running with people and supporters pretty much the whole way along the course. Oxford's not a big place so the part of the run in the centre is quite small but the final few miles around University Parks and into the centre was beautiful. Nice finishers T-Shirts too!
Make sure you get to the park and rides early.Overall a great route which is relatively flat and easy running
This is genuinely just a really great race. The atmosphere was awesome the whole way round and it really does have a properly festival vibe. I think this was the inaugural race but it didn't have any of the feeling of being a first time outing, organisation was slick and everything ran very smoothly. The only issue I had with it was it felt like they had got to the end and realised they hadn't made the course long enough so rather than some epic finish line stretch a la the london marathon you had about 8 switch backs which really hurt your rhythm and your time in the last Km. Except for that though it really was epic and will totally be back next year!
4.421 reviews
Friendly atmosphere
Incredible crowds
Perfect for a pb
Rate this event
Logistics and schedule
Schedule
09:30 Half Marathon Starts
There will be a 3 hour and 30 minute cut-off time for participants to finish the race.
How to get there
48-51 Broad St, Oxford OX1 3BQ, UK
Get directionsRace Start: Broad Street
Race Finish: Parks Road
Festival Village: Oxford University Parks
Frequently asked questions
How do I enter the Oxford Half Marathon?
Due to the popularity of the Oxford Half, entry is done through a ballot system. If your ballot entry was unsuccessful, you can secure your place through one of the charity partners, and run for a good cause.When will I receive my race pack for the Oxford Half Marathon?
Race packs can be collected from the Race Village on Oxford University Parks the day before the event. If you'd prefer for your pack to be posted to you, you will need to pay for this when registering.Is there music on the Oxford Half Marathon course?
There will be DJs, local bands and live music throughout the course to motivate you until you cross the finish line.Is there a bag drop at the Oxford Half Marathon?
Yes, there will be a bag drop for participants while they race.Booking related questionsDo you have a question about bookings, cancellations, or refunds?
Half Marathon - Enter the Ballot
9:30am Sun 17th Oct 2021
Interested in volunteering at this event?
Organisers are always looking for an extra pair of hands and there are plenty of roles to fill!
Complete this short form and the organiser will be in touch.
By submitting, you’re accepting that we’ll pass your details onto the event organiser. We won’t pass your details onto anyone else.