The London Marathon is a bucket list race for a lot of runners in the UK. It is an iconic event with an amazing atmosphere. It’s also very difficult to get into.
No matter how disappointed you are about not getting a place don’t throw away your training plan just yet!
There are many other marathons you can get into without the stress of a ballot. Here is my list of alternative to London for the rest of the year and into 2024. 
Manchester Marathon medal

Manchester Marathon – 14 April 2024

Stepping in to fix those missed ballot broken hearts Manchester marathon offers a flat route, electric atmosphere and amazing reviews. Like London, also a spring marathon. 

It starts and finishes at Old Trafford cricket ground and passes a number of famous Manchester landmarks including the Old Trafford football ground. You then head out into the suburbs of Manchester where the residents come out in full force to support. I’ve run it 5 times now and it’s always a great atmosphere. 

Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon – 12 May 2024

Leeds is hosted its very first marathon in 2024 and has had rave reviews. It is in aid of former Leeds Rhinos player Rob Burrow, who was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in December 2019. Since his diagnosis, Rob and his family have been raising awareness and funds to support other families living with MND. The route starts and finishes at Headingley Stadium. Taking in some of Leeds’ most scenic countryside and outer suburbs. It will be a fitting tribute to the city that launched Rob’s career and which he calls home. 
Alternatives the London Marathon

Loch Ness Marathon – 1 October 2023

The Baxters Loch Ness Marathon is one of the world’s most stunning marathons with spectacular scenery, great atmosphere and an unforgettable experience. 

Starting in an atmospheric moorland setting, the Loch Ness Marathon takes you along the south-eastern shores of Loch Ness, across the River Ness, and finishes in Inverness, the capital city of the Highlands. It takes you along the stunning Highland scenery all the way to Loch Ness. It is simply stunning – definitely one to add to the bucket list!

Alternatives the London Marathon

Chester Marathon – 8 October 2023

Chester Marathon was voted the UK’s best marathon (up to 5,000 runners) at the 2019 & 2018 Running Awards and it’s easy to see why!

Starting at Chester Racecourse, the route passes all Chester’s iconic landmarks, before heading out into Cheshire & North Wales (yes, you run in both England AND Wales), before returning along the banks of the River Dee for an unforgettable finish on Castle Drive. There was plenty of parking, and the goodie bag was the best I’ve ever had!

Alternatives the London Marathon

Yorkshire Marathon – 15 October 2023

This year is the tenth anniversary of this iconic race. Lucky runners get to experience the beautiful city of York and run through the surrounding Yorkshire villages. Starting at the University, you’ll run past famous landmarks such as York Minster and the ancient city walls, before heading out into the countryside and back to the University for the big finish. The course offers plenty of fast and flat sections so has PB potential. You’re guaranteed a warm Yorkshire welcome – don’t forget to hi-five vicar!
If you still had your heart set on running the London Marathon there are a number of charities that can help you get to that iconic start line.