Royal Parks Half Marathon 2026 draws record field of more than 17,000 runners

More than 17,000 runners took part in the Royal Parks Half Marathon in central London on Sunday 11 October. It was the largest field in the race’s history.

Sam Brashaw was first home in the men’s race in 1 hour 9 minutes 30 seconds. Celia Anton won the women’s race in 1 hour 14 minutes 10 seconds.

Dermot O’Leary and Olly Murs were among the well-known names on the start line. The TV chef Tilly Ramsay also ran.

The 2026 Royal Parks Half Marathon route

The 13.1 mile course ran on closed roads through four Royal Parks. As well as Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, runners went through Green Park and St James’s Park. Along the way they passed Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament and Trafalgar Square. The finish line was beside the Royal Albert Hall, facing the Albert Memorial. Thousands of spectators turned out along the route to cheer them on.

Fundraising and sustainability

The event was on track to beat the £8.5 million fundraising record it set in 2025.

Water refill stations and compostable cups were in use again, and finishers received medals made from FSC-certified wood. Runners could also turn down a finisher T-shirt through the Drop the Finisher Top scheme and support planting along the edge of the Serpentine instead.

This year Oysho was headline sponsor for the first time. Liz Tack, head of the event, described the day as “a brilliant celebration”. She thanked the charities and volunteers who took part, along with the race’s partners. “We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together,” she said.