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The UK is deep into marathon season now. In April, tens of thousands of people took on 26.2 mile runs through Manchester and London. This weekend, it’s Edinburgh’s turn.
Starting near the top of the Royal Mile and gradually descending 90 metres down to the coastline, Edinburgh Marathon is known for being one of the fastest marathons in the world. If you’ve got a PB to beat, this is the race for you. There are also some incredible views along the way as runners passing by some of the city’s greatest landmarks, like the Scott Monument, Holyrood Palace and Arthur’s Seat.
Preparing to run the race yourself? Limbering up to be the loudest supporter on the sidelines? Here’s everything you need to know about the Edinburgh Marathon 2026.
When is the Edinburgh Marathon 2026?
This year’s Edinburgh Marathon is happening on Sunday May 24 2026.
When does the marathon start?
Start times will be staggered based on predicted finishing times but the first runners will set off at 10am.
Where does it start?
It sets off from the University of Edinburgh campus on Potterrow.
Edinburgh Marathon route
From Potterrow, runners will go towards Edinburgh’s Old Town past Greyfriars Bobby and across the Royal Mile to go down the Mound and into Princes Street Gardens. They’ll then go through the gardens and join back onto the Royal Mile to head towards Holyrood.
After going through Holyrood Park the race will head towards coast, go along the Portobello promenade and continue to Musselburgh and Gosford. Finally, runners will turn back along the coast and cross the finish line near Musselburgh High Street. You can have a closer look at the route with this interactive map.
How do I get to the Edinburgh Marathon?
The closest station to the start line is Edinburgh Waverley. It’s around a 15-minute walk to Potterrow. You can also get the tram to Princes Street, which is roughly the same distance.
Road closures
There’ll be over 100 road closures and parking restrictions in place in Edinburgh and East Lothian for the marathon. The earliest closures start at 5pm on Saturday and some will stay closed until 6.30pm on Sunday. Take a look at every single closure here.
The best places to watch runners
Organisers recommend four spectator points if you want great views and a brilliant atmosphere. Choose from the starting line on Potterrow or down the Royal Mile, mile 6 on Portobello Beach, miles 10,13 or 26 in Musselburgh or miles 14 and 22 in Port Seton.
How to track runners
Unlike the London Marathon, this event doesn’t use live tracking. However, you can see where your family and friends are using apps like Strava Beacon, Find My Friends, Google Maps or Whatsapp Live Location.
Is the 2026 Edinburgh Marathon sold out?
Yep, entries to Sunday’s event are now closed.
Where can I drop my bags?
Bag drop zones will be clearly signposted near the starting line and will be organised by bib number.
Weather forecast
At the moment, it’s looking like there’ll be perfect running weather on Sunday. The Met Office predicts highs of 22C for Edinburgh with some cloud and wind.
How to enter Edinburgh Marathon 2027
Got the running bug? Entries are now open for next year’s event, which will take place on May 30. You can register here.
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