With the world famous London Marathon coming up over the weekend, let’s get inspired and check out what other races are available here in London.

With a population of over 8 million… we can’t be too surprised that once an event gets featured in our Tuesday Timeout mag that there’ll be a queue for DAYZ or it’ll be completely sold out. For this reason, I’ll avoid the highly publicized one-off races so that by the time you read this and think, ‘hey, I might sign up for that one…’ that there will actually be spaces available for you to do so.

Here are two amazing options for 5k and 10k running series in London — these are trusted events you can count on and which are suited for runners of all levels.

5k

PARKRUN.

• How much? Parkruns are free and run by volunteers.
• When? Every Saturday at 9:00am
• Where? Nearly every park in London. Find one nearest you – click here.
• What do I need to know? Register online first and print out your barcode. Be sure to bring the printed barcode with you (their scanners don’t work with Smartphones).
• Is it timed? Yes, your barcode is scanned when you finish and paired up with your finish time. It is then later posted online where you can track progress and get a little competitive with the others

10k

REGENTS PARK SEASONAL SERIES.

• How much? £15.00
• When? The first Sunday of every month.
• Where? Regents Park – North London.
• What do I need to know? Sign up online (here) or on the day of.
• Is it timed? Yes – You’re given a timing chip and results get posted here.

I participate in both of these races a handful of times each year – they are perfect training races to see how you go in a race environment and get an official time.

If the London Marathon has inspired you to sign up for it – than the 2016 race entry is expected to open before the end of April (less than a week away). Even if you are ‘half interested’ I would recommend signing up (link here) as the entry is through a Ballot which often get’s announced in October. There is a one in twelve chance you’ll get a spot in the race.

Anyways, I’m off to Scotland this weekend to participate in the Balmoral 10k — I’ll miss the buzz down in London but I can’t wait to check out this course — I’s been voted the most scenic road race in the country. I have been warned however to not expect a fast time as it is extremely hilly. Race report to follow!

Good luck to everyone racing the Marathon this weekend!