Choose the best UK MARATHON for YOU [] 5 Key Factors to Consider Before Entering [] Running Tips

Over the years we have run several road marathons in the UK and abroad. In this video we use that experience to share what we think are five important factors you need to think about before spending a considerable sum of money and weeks of hard training on a marathon which may or may not suit you.
Let us know if you agree or disagree with our take on this.

[@inmruns]

Brighton is great for watching as well, especially now that they've changed the course.

[@tworunningbrooms]

That's good to know as Dawn will probably only do a part of it and then spectate as she's now planning a different marathon so we can support each other.

[@path2running]

Excellent video - thanks so much. I've run London and Brighton - loved them both. Looking at Abingdon for the autumn.

[@tworunningbrooms]

Dawn did Abingdon last year and really enjoyed it. John might do it this year...🙂

[@markdyer2580]

Doing Prague May '25 with my son. Accommodation and flights already booked! Good excuse to get to see beautiful cities in a way only runners can. Not cheap but bank of Dad taking the strain for a 3 day break and entry fees! 😊 Taking other son and wife as support group as well.

[@tworunningbrooms]

Sounds like a good trip is organised there. Enjoy Prague! 😁

[@SparkesIsRunning]

Really helpful video. I’ve just done London and yes the crowds were the thing! I’ve done York which was a bit like Manchester in terms of support. I’m doing the New Forest Marathon in September but not sure what to go for next Spring. Internationals are appealing but the cost and logistics are a barrier.

[@TheWu]

Love these types of videos, very useful.

[@tworunningbrooms]

Hope so. Off to watch yours now to see what you marathon plans (if any) are.

[@markg99]

I think logistics and location would be a big one for me. Somewhere I can drive to and park easily on the day is ideal.

[@tworunningbrooms]

Yes we've learnt over the years you want minimal hassle on race morning.

[@janetpaul8029]

Good information as usual. Couldn't help noticing Dawn that your leg is wrapped. I hope you're not injured.

[@tworunningbrooms]

Ah well spotted. It was very sore at the beginning of the week so strapped it up as a precaution. It's OK now thanks.

[@janetpaul8029]

That's good. Keep on keeping on❤️

[@ChestnutandBea]

I’ve booked Chester (please don’t be too hilly lol) and Manchester 👍

[@tworunningbrooms]

They both have undulations, but are not bad. Lots of flat too. 😁

[@middleagedrunningman]

Really really good watch this one Brooms. Booked on both Yorkshire 24 and Edinburgh 25. Had looked at Abingdon too.
Which is best??

[@tworunningbrooms]

Yorkshire and Abingdon a week apart I think. I'd say there's not a lot to choose between them for pb potential. Yorkshire is a Run For All same as the Coventry HM you did. So an event feel.
Abingdon a traditional club race. I prefer the latter personally.
But it's what you think will float your boat more.

[@dorothygraham6183]

Just did the Two Oceans ultra marathon, now going to do Cork marathon on the 2nd June. What recommendations would you pass on Dawn for a 69 year old lady trying to get quicker. I run 5 times a week, spinning, open water swimming and S @ C. Also 20 min stretch every day. Have tried running in zone 2 but I am nearly walking at that zone.

[@tworunningbrooms]

Well done on the Two Oceans ultra, and good luck at Cork!
Firstly are your zones, right? I often run in zone 2, and although it's an easy pace, I certainly don't feel like I'm nearly walking.
It's hard to give advice without a proper history. You seem to run enough, but maybe you need to look at what type of runs you do. It sounds like you have a good selection of cross-training, etc.

[@BradleySingerRuns]

after completing my 7th Marathon in april. i was looking at the Chester or Stevenage Marathon. which one would you choose. Chester in 70 and happens every year BUT Stevenage is 40 and happens once every 10 years.

[@tworunningbrooms]

Hmm good question. As Chester takes place every year it has everything hardwired into place. My concern about a once in a decade event would be around any glitches on the day. Not saying there will be any but it would be at the back of my mind. I'd highly rate Chester for its organisation and quality. We've never done Stevenage so couldn't comment beyond that general point.

[@alexanderwheeler4827]

Can you suggest a Web site with a comprehensive list of UK Marathons? Cheers logistics is my biggest factor. Taken on my first half in six weeks, looking Marathons for next year.

[@tworunningbrooms]

I think there is one called Marathon Guide. Also Find A Race . Or Marathon Runners Diary.