London Marathon alternatives: Where to run if you didn't land a spot in 2024

Find out where else you can get your marathon fix
If you didn’t get a place at the London Marathon 2024, don’t fear
PA Wire
Lola Christina Alao11 April 2024

This year, the London Marathon is bigger and better than ever. Runners are vying to make and break records during the race, including one man dressed as a giant poo emoji who is raising awareness of Crohn's disease. 

London Marathon Events (LME) also revealed last year that it was introducing carbon dioxide (CO2) removal initiatives in an effort to achieve net zero by 2030. It'll be funded by a £26 ‘climate levy’ introduced for international runners.

The London Marathon has been awarded gold certification status by the Council for Responsible Sport following assessments of its planning, communications, and community access.

Runners pass the Old Naval College, Greenwich, during the 2016 Virgin Money London Marathon (Dominic Lipinski/PA)
PA Archive

The results of the ballot were already emailed to everyone who entered, and those who put their name forward will now have found out if they were successful. Entrants should have paid the entry fee before the start of August last year. 

But if you didn't get a place in the London Marathon? Fear not. Here are some alternatives. 

Newcastle-Gateshead Marathon 

Taking place on Sunday, May 5, a brand new marathon is coming to the north-east. As you run, you'll see the famous landmarks of Gateshead including Gateshead Millennium Bridge, Sage Gateshead, Baltic, Tyne Bridge, and Swing Bridge – and you'll end the marathon in the iconic Gateshead International Stadium. And it's not too late to book your spot.

Find out more here.

Helsinki City Marathon  

If you fancy getting outside of the UK to get your fitness fix, look no further. This marathon, taking place on Saturday, May 11 is in Helsinki, Finland. It's the largest running event in Finland, attracting 15,000 runners from over 80 nations and combining five running distances in one day. Why not use this as an opportunity to explore another country? 

Find out more here.

The Yorkshire Marathon

You'll be running through the beautiful city of York, taking in historic sights and along scenic country lanes, making it an attractive prospect for runners of all abilities.

Find out more here.

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