Back in the 1970s, 10 miles was the most popular distance for road races. The Michelin 10-mile road race, held on 3 June 1979, attracted a record number of entries – 1,100 – and for many runners 10 miles was seen as the classic running event.
Since then, it’s been overtaken in popularity by both the 10K and the half marathon – but a number of classic 10-milers remain. And that's for good reason, because a 10-mile race is a great challenge even if a 10K, half marathon or marathon is your ultimate target.
Not for nothing did the great Kenyan distance runner Moses Kiptanui once say he never raced any distance unless he was in good 10-mile condition. So, what are you waiting for? Sign up for one of these 10-milers in the UK for the ultimate test of speed and endurance.
Best UK 10-mile races
Granite Way
Where? Okehampton
When? 10 March 2024
Taking in the Granite Way cycle path through Devon, with fantastic views of Dartmoor and the surrounding countryside, this 10-miler is excellent prep for a spring half marathon or marathon.
Notts 10
Where? Nottingham
When? 7 June 2024
The oldest road race in Nottinghamshire and one of the oldest in the East Midlands is now celebrating its 50th anniversary. First run in 1972 from the Notts AC base at Harvey Hadden Stadium, it moved to the National Water Sports Centre at Holme Pierrepont in 1989 and has been there ever since. The course is flat and fast, which is reflected in the course record times: 49:01 for men (run by Alan Jackson in 1993) and 53:57 for women(run by Gemma Steel in 2016).
Great South Run
Where? Portsmouth
When? 20 October 2024
The biggest 10-miler in the UK is also one of the fastest, if the wind is playing ball. As it takes place along the south coast, that’s a fairly sizeable 'if', but what you can depend on is a party atmosphere and generous support along the coast. The route takes you on a tour of Portsmouth’s maritime past and presence, taking in such sites as the Historic Dockyard and HM Naval Base.
Cabbage Patch 10
Where? Twickenham
When? 20 October 2024
Famously flat and fast, it was here in 1993 that Richard Nerurkar set the long-standing British 10-mile record of 46:02 (bettered by Emil Cairess, on a different course, in 2023). It’s become something of an institution among club runners in South East England, with previous winners including the likes of Sir Mo Farah. It is also surely the only race in the world where winners receive a head of cabbage alongside a decent cash prize of £1,000 for the male and female winners.
Derwentwater 10
Where? Lake District
When? 3 November 2024
A scenic, long-standing 10 in the heart of the Lake District, the Derwentwater race isn’t as hilly as you might fear. It loops the titular lake on a tarmac course, which is described as gently undulating rather than horrendously hilly. The views, as you would expect for the Lakes, are exquisite throughout.
Brampton to Carlisle 10
Where? Brampton
When? 17 November 2024
The oldest 10-miler in the UK is now in its 72nd year, and is a quick, point-to-point route that’s been run by legends including Ron Hill and Steve Cram. It starts outside a Brampton school and ends after crossing the River Eden into the heart of Carlisle. The race attracts runners from across the north of England and, with Hadrian’s Wall close by, from Scotland, too.
Canterbury 10
Where? Canterbury
When? January 2025 (date TBC)
The first quality 10-miler of the year, the historic city of Canterbury provides the stage for this undulating and well regarded race. You’ll start and end close to the cathedral, but the majority of the race is run along quiet country roads that showcase the Kentish countryside.
Settle Road Race
Where? Settle, Yorkshire
When? February 2025 (date TBC)
Set in the Yorkshire village of Settle, this race boasts a scenic, undulating course and is known for its slick organisation and friendly marshals. Plus, you get a bacon butty at the finish. I mean, what’s not to like?
Baddow 10
Where? Chelmsford, Essex
When? 19 May
Any race that's been going for 40 years is doing something right. This Essex classic is popular among club runners and newbies alike. It's run along undulating country roads on the outskirts of Chelmsford and has a rich history. Previous London Marathon winner Eamonn Martin has run the Barrow 10 and it remains a popular draw for runners from the Home Counties and East Anglia.
