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There are hundreds of thousands of Londoners that really love a run. We’re not talking about a casual lunchtime jog. We’re talking miles and miles and miles of non-stop running – hydration vest, carb gels and all.
Because of that, over the past few years places for the city’s favourite half marathon, the Hackney Half, have been increasingly difficult to come by. Spots for the 2026 event were completely snapped up within 48 hours of the 2025 race finishing. But if you missed out on a place for the Hackney Half 2026, you’re in luck. There’s a brand new 13.1 mile race landing in east London this year.
The Saucony Run Shoreditch Half will debut on Sunday September 20, 2026 – and it’s from the same people who’re behind the Hackney Half. The event began last year as a 10k, with runners starting in Shoreditch Park, winding through the boroughs of Hackney and Islington, then crossing the finish line back at the park.
We don’t know exactly what the half marathon route will look like yet, but we do know that it’ll also start and end at Shoreditch Park. Just like the Hackney Half, roads will be closed for the event and there’ll be live music, cheer zones and a crowd of dedicated supporters keeping runners in high spirits all along the route. There’ll also be a buzzing event village full of local food and drink vendors, brand activations and give aways, and live entertainment.
While the Hackney Half attracted 25,000 runners last year, its Shoreditch counterpart will be a little smaller, with organisers hoping to welcome around 10,000 participants. Tempted to give it a go? Entry into the Shoreditch Half will start from £45. You can sign up for early access here or wait until full registration opens on February 4.
Better get training! Discover some of the best running routes in London, recommended by the pros, and if you can’t go it alone, find London’s best running groups to join here.
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