10K is one of the most satisfying distances in running. It’s long enough to be a real test of endurance and speed, but short enough to fit into busy lives and weekly routines. Whether you’re aiming to complete your first ever 10K or chasing a new personal best, the UK offers an incredible range of races to choose from, from flat, city-center events to scenic countryside and coastal runs.
A 10K is also the perfect distance to bring people together. Friends, families, beginners, and seasoned club runners often share the same start line, creating an atmosphere that’s electric, inclusive, and full of joy.
In this guide, we’ve selected 15 of the best 10Ks in the UK, complete with key details, what makes each event special, and links to training plans so you can prepare with confidence.
1. Vitality London 10,000 (London, England)
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When: May
Where: Central London
Beginner-friendly? Yes
Average price: £40–£50
Number of participants: 12,000+
Official website: Vitality London 10,000
Training plans: Grab your London 10,000 training plan
The Vitality London 10,000 is one of the UK’s most popular road races, offering a stunning route through the heart of London. Starting near St James’s Park, you’ll run past many of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including St Paul’s Cathedral, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace.
The course is flat, fast, and ideal for beginners or those chasing a new personal best. With thousands of runners and enthusiastic spectators lining the streets, the atmosphere is incredible from start to finish.
It’s also one of the best-organized races in the UK, making it perfect for first-timers who want a seamless experience.
2. Great Manchester Run (Manchester, England)
When: May
Where: Manchester city centre
Beginner-friendly? Yes
Average price: £42–£50
Number of participants: 20,000+
Official website: Great Manchester Run
Training plans: Grab your Great Manchester Run training plan
The Great Manchester Run is the biggest 10K in Europe and one of the most exciting events on the UK running calendar. The route takes you through the heart of the city, past Old Trafford and along wide boulevards lined with cheering crowds and live music.
The atmosphere is electric, with DJs, charity runners in costume, and thousands of supporters making noise from start to finish. The course is flat and fast, ideal for runners of all levels.
If you’re after a 10K that feels like a party, Manchester is the place to be.
3. AJ Bell Great Scottish Run 10K (Glasgow, Scotland)
When: Early October
Where: Glasgow city centre
Beginner-friendly? Yes
Average price: £30–£40
Number of participants: 10,000+
Official website: Great Scottish Run
Training plans: Grab your Great Scottish Run training plan
The Great Scottish Run 10K is one of Scotland’s biggest running events. The route starts in George Square and takes you past some of Glasgow’s most famous landmarks, including the River Clyde and the stunning architecture that gives the city its character.
The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, and the event’s organization is top-notch. It’s perfect for new runners and those looking for a fast, scenic city race.
4. Leeds Abbey Dash 10K (Leeds, England)
When: Late November
Where: Leeds city centre
Beginner-friendly? Yes
Average price: £28–£35
Number of participants: Around 6,000
Official website: Age UK Leeds Abbey Dash
Training plans: Grab your Leeds Abbey Dash training plan
The Leeds Abbey Dash is famous for being one of the fastest 10Ks in the UK. The flat, out-and-back course starts in Leeds city centre and takes you along Kirkstall Road to the beautiful Kirkstall Abbey before returning to the city for the finish.
It’s an ideal race if you’re chasing a personal best, and the late-autumn timing means cool, comfortable weather. The friendly northern crowd support and excellent organization make it a top choice for all runners.
5. Cardiff 10K (Cardiff, Wales)
When: September
Where: Cardiff city centre
Beginner-friendly? Yes
Average price: £30–£40
Number of participants: 7,000+
Official website: Cardiff 10K
Training plans: Grab your Cardiff 10K training plan
The Cardiff 10K is a well-loved Welsh race that combines a fast city course with great crowd support. The route passes Cardiff Castle, the National Museum, and the scenic Bute Park, showcasing some of the capital’s best sights.
It’s flat, accessible, and family-friendly, with a fun-run event for younger participants. Welsh crowds are known for their enthusiasm, and the energy along the course makes this event one of the highlights of the running calendar in Wales.
6. Great Bristol Run 10K (Bristol, England)
When: May
Where: Bristol city centre
Beginner-friendly? Yes
Average price: £35–£45
Number of participants: 10,000+
Official website: Great Bristol Run
Training plans: Grab your Bristol 10K training plan
The Great Bristol Run 10K is one of the most scenic city runs in the UK. The route starts in the city centre, follows the Avon Gorge, and includes spectacular views of the Clifton Suspension Bridge before returning to Millennium Square for a grand finish.
The atmosphere is buzzing, with live music, cheering crowds, and a friendly west-country spirit. The course is mostly flat with a few gentle undulations, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced runners.
7. Great North 10K (Newcastle, England)
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When: July
Where: Newcastle city centre
Beginner-friendly? Yes
Average price: £35–£45
Number of participants: 6,000+
Official website: Great Run
Training plans: Grab your Great North 10K training plan
The Great North 10K gives runners the chance to experience the magic of the Great North Run on a smaller scale. The race takes you along the banks of the River Tyne, with the famous Tyne Bridge in view and a finish inside Gateshead International Stadium.
It’s a perfect summer event that captures the energy and excitement of the North East’s running community. Expect live bands, charity runners, and plenty of local pride along the way.
8. Bidwells Oxford 10k (Oxford, England)
When: May
Where: Oxford city centre
Beginner-friendly? Yes
Average price: £32–£38
Number of participants: Around 6,000
Official website: Bidwells Oxford 10k
Training plans: Grab your Bidwells Oxford 10k training plan
The Oxford Town and Gown 10K is a beautiful run through one of the UK’s most historic cities. The route winds past the university’s iconic colleges, through leafy parks, and along the River Cherwell.
This event raises funds for Muscular Dystrophy UK and has a warm, community-focused feel. The course is flat and scenic, and the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming. It’s a great mix of history, charm, and fast running.
9. London Winter Run 10K (London, England)
When: February
Where: Central London
Beginner-friendly? Yes
Average price: £40–£50
Number of participants: 25,000+
Official website: London Winter Run
Training plans: Grab your London Winter Run training plan
The London Winter Run is one of the most unique 10Ks in the UK. Taking place in February, it offers a fun, wintry theme complete with polar bear hugs at the finish and snow cannons along the route.
The course is flat and fast, and the cold weather makes for excellent running conditions. Runners pass through Trafalgar Square, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the Strand before finishing near Big Ben.
It’s a brilliant way to brighten up the winter running calendar and kick-start your year with an exciting event.
10. Edinburgh 10K (Edinburgh, Scotland)
When: Late May
Where: Edinburgh city centre
Beginner-friendly? Yes
Average price: £35–£45
Number of participants: 5,000+
Official website: Edinburgh Marathon Festival
Training plans: Grab your Edinburgh 10K training plan
Part of the Edinburgh Marathon Festival, this 10K offers a scenic route through one of the UK’s most beautiful cities. The race begins in Holyrood Park, beneath Arthur’s Seat, and winds through the historic streets before finishing near the Royal Mile.
The festival atmosphere and Scottish hospitality make this race a favourite among runners across the UK.
11. Run Bournemouth Supersonic 10k (Bournemouth, England)
When: October
Where: Bournemouth seafront
Beginner-friendly? Yes
Average price: £35–£45
Number of participants: Around 3,000
Official website: Run Bournemouth
Training plans: Grab your Bournemouth 10K training plan
The Run Bournemouth 10K offers a stunning coastal course with sea views from start to finish. The route follows the promenade and includes Bournemouth and Boscombe Piers.
With gentle sea breezes, wide paths, and plenty of local support, this race feels relaxed and enjoyable while still giving you the chance to push for a strong finish.
12. Windsor Women’s 10K (Windsor, England)
When: September
Where: Windsor Great Park
Beginner-friendly? Moderate (rolling terrain)
Average price: £35–£45
Number of participants: Around 3,000
Official website: Windsor Women’s 10k
Training plans: Grab your Windsor Women’s 10K training plan
Set against the backdrop of Windsor Castle, this scenic 10K takes you through Windsor Great Park’s sweeping avenues and ancient oak trees.
It’s a peaceful, picturesque race that combines challenging hills with rewarding views. Perfect for runners who love nature and history, this event feels quintessentially British.
13. Southampton Marathon Festival (Southampton, England)
When: Early May
Where: Southampton city centre and waterfront
Beginner-friendly? Yes
Average price: £30–£40
Number of participants: Around 3,000–4,000
Official website: ABP Southampton Marathon Festival
Training plans: Grab your Southampton 10K training plan
The ABP Southampton Marathon Festival 10K is a vibrant city race that captures the spirit of Southampton’s running community. The course takes you through the heart of the city, past iconic landmarks like the Bargate and St Mary’s Stadium, before leading you toward the scenic waterfront.
With energetic crowd support, cheerful volunteers, and a buzzing festival atmosphere shared with the half and full marathon events, it’s a perfect choice for beginners and seasoned runners alike. Expect a well-organised race day that blends coastal views, city energy, and plenty of Southampton pride.
14. Nottingham 10K (Nottingham, England)
When: Early March
Where: Nottingham city centre
Beginner-friendly? Yes
Average price: £35–£45
Number of participants: Around 4,000
Official website: Nottingham 10K
Training plans: Grab your Nottingham 10K training plan
The Nottingham 10K is a popular summer event with a city-meets-park atmosphere. The course runs through Old Market Square, along the River Trent, and past Nottingham Castle.
It’s flat and friendly, ideal for both new runners and those fine-tuning their speed.
15. Brighton 10K (Brighton, England)
When: November
Where: Brighton seafront
Beginner-friendly? Yes
Average price: £35–£45
Number of participants: Around 3,000
Official website: Brighton 10K
Training plans: Grab your Brighton 10K training plan
The Brighton 10K offers runners a chance to enjoy the seaside atmosphere of one of the UK’s most famous coastal towns. The course is flat and fast, following the seafront and finishing near Brighton Pier.
It’s a great end-of-season event, with cool November air and lively crowds cheering you along the promenade.
Train for Your Next 10K with Runna
Whether you’re stepping up to your first race or looking to shave seconds off your personal best, these 15 races represent the very best of the UK running scene. From city-center energy to peaceful park routes and coastal views, each one offers a unique experience that will keep you coming back for more.
And whatever event you choose, Runna will help you get there. Our app creates personalized 10K training plans tailored to your current fitness, goals, and schedule. You’ll get weekly workouts that balance speed sessions, easy runs, long runs, and recovery, along with optional strength and mobility training to keep you injury-free.
You can even select your specific race in the app, and we’ll build a plan customized for that event.
Download Runna, your number-one running coaching app, and start training for your next 10K today. Your first week is free.
