Hackney Half Marathon
Lace up for a flat run through Hackney and the iconic Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. After 2025's sell out event, join Team Marsden and see what the buzz is all about!
Please note, the 2025 Hackney Half Marathon event is sold out, so the details below are regarding the 2026 event! Make sure to register your interest and we will be in touch as soon as you sign up to be part of Team Marsden in 2026.
Soak in the energy of East London at the Hackney Half Marathon 2026
This 13.1 mile flat run starts in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and speeds along through East London city streets. With live bands and entertainment throughout the course. This isn't just a race, it's a full-on festival.
If you want to find out more you can also check out the organiser's website!
On this page:
How to take part
Registration
- Register your interest using the button above! Once registration for the event is open, we'll let you know.
- After you've signed up, you will then need to complete the second page of registration to add all your details to the event console. After you’ve completed both steps, a member of the team will be in touch to confirm safe receipt, and you’ll be all set to lace up your trainers and get running!
- Registration is £20 per person, and we ask each participant to reach a minimum fundraising target of £350.
Training and fundraising support
- Once you’ve signed up, you’ll receive one-to-one support from a dedicated member of the charity team. They will help with your fundraising efforts and answer any questions you may have as you prepare for the big day.
- You’ll also have access to our professional half marathon training plans to encourage you to start logging those miles. Whether it’s your first big race or you’re a seasoned runner, our plans will help structure your training to make sure you are ready for the challenge.
- When you register, you will also be able to join our Team Marsden Runners Facebook group. Our fun, friendly and supportive online community will be there to support you all the way, share top tips and advice and keep you motivated in the run up to the event.
The Hackney Half route
1. Start within Hackney Marshes
2. Race down Homerton Road and through to Homerton High Street
3. Go round Hackney Downs and up towards Dalston
4. Pass the iconic Hackney Picturehouse and head towards Haggerston
5. Run towards Broadway Market and pass London Fields
6. Continue along Victoria Park and towards Hackney wick
7. Finish your race back at Hackney Marshes and enjoy the event festival.
What's included when I join Team Marsden?
Your registration includes:
- Your race bib and welcome pack sent prior to the day, including your very own Royal Marsden Cancer Charity running vest.
- Fundraising support and advice from a dedicated member of staff at The Royal Marsden and access to our supportive Team Marsden runners Facebook group.
- Professional training plans to help you prepare for the big day.
- The loudest charity cheer points on the route to keep you motivated as you tackle the course.
Every mile makes a difference
Ben took part in the Hackney Half Marathon in memory of his dad, Simon, on the 11th anniversary of his death.
"My father was diagnosed with stomach cancer in 2011. The treatment and support he received at The Royal Marsden was beyond belief."
“The event was very special. The Royal Marsden cheer squad were fantastic and it was great to see them supporting us all. It’s an emotional challenge and a brilliant way to support an amazing cause. I’d recommend the challenge to EVERYONE…even if you’ve never run before!!”
Thanks to supporters like Ben, we can continue to be there for everyone who needs us.