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Edinburgh Marathon and Half Marathon 

Run one of Europe’s most popular marathons and support people living with dementia

The Edinburgh Marathon, and Half Marathon are some of the UK’s most popular running events, attracting thousands of runners each year as part of the wider Edinburgh Marathon Festival weekend. Both are known for their fantastic atmosphere and scenic routes, the event takes runners through the heart of Edinburgh before heading out towards the coast.

The marathon route is recognised as one of the fastest in the UK, making the festival a major fixture in the running calendar and a brilliant event for runners of all levels, with multiple race options across the weekend.

Whether you’re taking on your first marathon or half marathon event, or aiming for a new personal best, this is a fantastic opportunity to challenge yourself while raising funds to support people living with dementia and their families.

What’s included:

Fundraising & Fees

By taking part in the Edinburgh Half Marathon for Dementia Adventure, you’ll help us fund supported holidays, outdoor experiences, and training for families affected by dementia. As a small charity, we rely on our runners to help us continue this work.

Costs:

Your fundraising helps cover the cost of your place, with the remaining funds going directly to Dementia Adventure. Any fundraising above your target supports our work in full.

We’ll support you with:

Training and preparation

Running a marathon or a half marathon requires preparation, but with a training plan and consistency it is very achievable. 

Marathon training plans are usually around 4 – 6 months while half marathon plans are generally 10 – 16 weeks, depending on experience and starting fitness.

Whether your goal is to complete the distance or achieve a personal best, building up gradually and staying consistent will help you feel prepared and confident.

Dementia Adventure running vest, front and back

FAQs

When do the events  take place?
Sunday, May 30, 2027

How far is the race?
The marathon distance is 26.2 miles (42.2 km) while the half marathon distance is 13.1 miles (21.1 km).

Is the course suitable for beginners?
Yes. The supportive atmosphere and well-established event make this a great choice for both first-time and experienced runners.

Do I need to arrange my own travel?
Yes. Travel and any accommodation are arranged separately (cost to be covered by the participant).

Can I take part with friends or colleagues?
Yes. This is a great challenge to take on with friends, family or workplace teams.