When you decide to register for a marathon, it feels like that should be the hardest part. You’re committing to 26 miles/42.2 km, and you’re eager to get started. Then you go to sign up and realise you’re already too late for a lot of the popular races. Races are sold out or waiting lists are full and your plan has already hit a wall.
Maybe you’ve just come off a spring marathon and you enjoyed so much that you are itching to go again. Or maybe it didn’t go to plan and you’re already thinking about how to fix that next time. Either way, you’re ready to register for a marathon again, you just need a race that still has space. This is a problem facing many runners. Marathon running has increased so much in popularity that you really have to plan well in advance. That said, there are still options available and at the end of the day, a marathon is the same distance no matter where you run it. The races may be on a smaller scale but that has its own benefits and can make the experience feel a bit more personal.
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Marathons Still Open for Registration in 2026
I have listed below some options that are still available, in Europe/UK. As of the time of posting this blog, registration is still open, but don’t delay if you think you have found the one for you.
Waterford Viking Marathon - Waterford, Ireland -June 21st
If you want to register for a marathon that feels like a proper event without being overwhelming, this is a strong choice. The race starts in the centre of Waterford and moves through a mix of historic streets, riverside paths, and sections of the Greenway. The atmosphere is one of the big positives. You get crowd support, lively music, and a hero’s welcome at the finish line. It is also a qualifier for Boston, if that is your aim. Just remember, June can mean warmer conditions.
Cost €80.00
Kildare Thoroughbred Marathon - Kildare, Ireland - June 21st
This marathon takes you along country roads and through the stunning Irish National Stud. The event offers a range of distances with only a small number taking part in the marathon (100-120). There’s very little distraction, which means you can really focus on your pacing and effort. That’s a positive if you’re disciplined, but it also means you need to manage the tougher moments yourself. This is a small event but it makes it for its size with great hospitality.
Cost €52.00
Medieval Marathon - Kilkenny, Ireland - September 12th
Registration
This is a good option if you want something with a bit more character. When you register for a marathon here, you’re getting a mix of countryside running and a finish in the medieval city of Kilkenny. The course has some rolling sections, so it’s not the easiest profile, but it keeps things interesting. Coming back into a historic city gives those final kilometres a different feel and something to aim for when things get tough.
Cost €60
Loch Ness Marathon - Loch Ness, Scotland - September 27th
This is one of those races you choose for the experience as much as the run. You start in the Highlands and run point-to-point toward Inverness. It’s described as downhill overall. “Breathtakingly beautiful”, “friendly atmosphere”, “flawless organisation”, “felt like a festival not just a race” are just some of the comments from participants in the past.
Cost £45
Run Galway Bay Marathon - Claddagh, Ireland - October 3rd
Registration
The route runs along the spectacular coastline and is a very fast and flat course. It’s a looped route rather than a single out-and-back or point-to-point. That means you repeat sections of the course, which can actually help you pace better because you know what’s coming, but it also means you need to be mentally prepared for seeing the same stretches more than once.
It’s also a good choice if you’re coming off a previous marathon that didn’t go to plan. The flat profile and simple layout give you a chance to execute properly, without too many external variables getting in the way.
Cost €70.00
Yorkshire Marathon- York, England - October 18th
This is a popular and picturesque marathon with a mostly flat course. You get medieval landmarks and lots of character in York. The course runs through the city and out into the surrounding country side. It is a well organised event with good support in the city.
Cost – £65.00
Frankfurt Marathon - Frankfurt, Germany - October 25th
Registration
This is one of the best options if your goal is performance. If you’re planning to register for a marathon with a focus on running fast, this should be high on your list. The course is described as exceptionally flat and takes you through the city passing many iconic buildings and neighbourhoods. The finish makes this one stand out. Instead of crossing the line out on the street you run into the Festhalle, an indoor arena, onto a red carpet with thousands of supporters around you.
Cost €156.00
Malaga Marathon - Malaga, Spain - November 8th
If you’re planning to register for a marathon late in the year, Málaga combines a flat, fast course with a more relaxed race atmosphere. The route starts and finishes in the city centre and takes you out along the Mediterranean coastline before looping back through Málaga itself. November in southern Spain is generally mild, but it can still be warmer than northern European races. A nice option for a destination marathon.
Cost: €104.00
Lanzarote Marathon - Lanzarote, Canary Islands - December 5th
If you want to register for a marathon that feels completely different from your usual race calendar, Lanzarote is a good option. The course runs along the coast, linking areas like Costa Teguise and Puerto del Carmen. Wind can be a factor, and it can be hotter than what you might be used to. It’s not a PB course but it is a nice excuse for a break away in a warmer environment. The atmosphere is relaxed compared to bigger events, but still well organised, with enough support to keep you moving.
Cost €80.00
Choose Your Next Marathon Before it's Too Late for 2026
If you want to register for a marathon in 2026, don’t hang about too long or you may be waiting until 2027. These are just a few options in Ireland, UK and Europe. Sometimes a smaller race suits runners better as there are less logistical issues to deal with and for some you can rock up to the start line without much pressure. You are not dealing with the congestion and you can just get on with your own race and enjoy the more relaxed atmosphere. And the price tag is a lot less
If your last marathon didn’t go to plan, you have options to choose a course that gives you the best chance to execute better. If you loved the experience, pick somewhere new and make it something you look forward to. If it’s your first time, pick a race that feels manageable rather than overwhelming. Once you register for a marathon, your training has purpose, your weeks have structure, and your focus sharpens.
Pick one, commit to it, and get started.
If you need any assistance with your marathon training do not hesitate to contact us at Achieve Running Club. Plans, support and advice is available for all levels.
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