The 10K arguably hits the sweet spot when it comes to race distances. While it presents a true test of speed and stamina over a longer distance, it’s not so long as to knock you for six over the days that follow, meaning new runners and seasoned racers alike can enjoy the challenge and achievement of covering the distance in line with their own goals.
Whether you want to tick off your first 10K or source a venue for a new PB, we’ve rounded up the UK's top 10K races to enter this year.
Best 10K races in the UK
Eastleigh 10K
Where? Eastleigh, Hampshire
When? 24 March 2024
Those who travel to Eastleigh often do so for one thing: a PB. While it may not serve the most scenic views, this 10K race boasts a flat course and attracts plenty of speed-seeking club runners from across the south. There’s great support along the route, too, and thanks to the excellent organisation you can fully concentrate on hitting your time goal.
Brighton 10K
Where? Brighton, England
When? 7 April 2024
The seaside city of Brighton is an ideal location for a fun, fast 10K with a buzzing festival feel. First time-time runners, charity runners and competitive runners gunning for a place on the podium all assemble at the start line on Hove Lawns, making it an inclusive event for runners of every kind.
Great Bristol 10K
Where? Bristol, England
When? 19 May 2024
Featuring a fast, flat course, the Great Bristol 10K is another top choice for runners aiming for a PB this year. The route runs parallel to the historic Bristol Harbour and along Avon Gorge before taking in the sights of the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, making for a picturesque outing in the vibrant city of Bristol.
Great Manchester Run
Where? Manchester, England
When? 26 May 2024
The Great Manchester Run encompasses both a 10K and a half marathon and is the highly prized pinnacle of the city’s running calendar. Residents turn up in their droves to support 40,000 participants of all abilities as they run past landmarks including Old Trafford, the Imperial War Museum and The Lowry. The organisers call it 'a party from start to finish' – and it's certainly a race to rave about.
The Wales 10K
Where? Pembrokeshire, Wales
When? 23 June 2024
The Wales 10K follows a point-to-point course from Manorbier to Tenby, located in the beautiful coastal county of Pembrokeshire. If a 10K race isn’t quite to your fancy, you could alternatively run the 5K, half marathon or full marathon taking place on the same day.
The London 10K
Where? London, England
When? 14 July 2024
If you’re keen to combine running with a bit of summertime sightseeing, then The London 10K could be your goal race for the year. With a flat course that careers past some of the most recognisable landmarks in the capital – including the London Eye and Big Ben – this event is a lively celebration of running with strong PB potential.
Where? Swansea, Wales
When? 15 September 2024
Taking place along the iconic sweep of Swansea Bay, this popular race attracts 10K speedsters and newcomers alike for one main reason: it’s flat and fast. There’s plenty of vocal support along the route, too, and an excellent goody bag and medal to look forward to at the finish. Once you’ve wrapped up the running, you’ll also be in prime position to explore the nearby Gower Peninsula with its breathtaking sandy beaches and cobalt waters.
Vitality London 10,000
Where? London, England
When? 22 September 2024
The route of this much-loved 10K race is a love letter to London, starting and finishing beside Buckingham Palace and skirting past architectural icons including the Houses of Parliament and St Paul’s Cathedral. Walkers to world-leading athletes and all made welcome at this event, which is held the day after the one-mile long, family friendly Vitality Westminster Mile – so why not do both and make a weekend of it?
Run Tatton 10K
Where? Knutsford, England
When? 5 October 2024
Taking place on closed roads inside the historic Tatton Park in rural Cheshire, this 10K boasts both a fast course and picture-postcard scenery. As such, it’s popular with both speed demons and back-of-the-pack plodders. It pays to arrive for the race early, however, as previous years have seen lengthy queues for the car park.
Great Scottish Run
Where? Glasgow, Scotland
When? 6 October 2024
It’s fitting that Glasgow, known as Scotland’s friendliest city, should host such a well-loved 10K that attracts around 10,000 runners each year. The route features some of Glasgow’s finest sights – including The Hydro, Pacific Quay and the McLennan Arch – and you’ll be spoilt with some excellent post-race food and drink options, too.
