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Shakespeare Marathon & Half Marathon

Events

Take part in this well established, road closed Half Marathon and Marathon around Stratford-upon-Avon – the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

  • Start Date: 26th Apr, 2026 @ 8:00am
  • Location: Stratford-upon-Avon

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Shakespeare Marathon & Half Marathon

The Shakespeare Marathon is an established road closed Marathon and Half Marathon around Stratford-upon-Avon. The new and improved, flat and fast route follows 1 lap for the half marathon and 2 laps for the marathon.

Between the stunning countryside and the local history, this run shows runners everything that Stratford-upon-Avon has to offer.

 

Why Take Part?

At St Basils, we provide accommodation, support and guidance to around 1,000 young people every night who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. These young people are not just given a safe place to stay, but are also offered training, employment opportunities and well-being support to help them rebuild their lives and achieve lasting independence.

Every pound raised goes directly to our mission of preventing youth homelessness — and by taking part, you become a crucial part of that mission.

 

What To Expect & Key Things To Know…

  • A stunning run in one of the UK’s most historic cities.
  • Registration includes a place in the race plus support from the St Basils team.
  • Once registered, you’ll receive a fundraising page and helpful tools to reach your target.
  • If you’re on track to reach target, you’ll also be gifted a St Basils running vest!

 

🎥 Event Video

 

Fundraising Made Easy!

Once you’ve registered, our team will create a personalised fundraising page for you!

From there, you can…

  • Add a profile photo and share your story.
  • Share your fundraising page widely.
  • Thank donors personally.
  • Use our fundraising pack for ideas, templates and tips!

 

We’re here to help you every step of the way and with your support, we can continue preventing youth homelessness.

 

Register for the Half Marathon

Register for the Marathon

Registration: £25/£20

Minimum Sponsorship: £250/£300

"Run amongst some of the most historical buildings in the country."

Why choose the Shakespeare Half Marathon or Marathon?

Whether you’re a newbie marathon runner or a more seasoned athlete looking for a personal best, The Shakespeare Half Marathon and Marathon offer runners much more than a great course, which is superbly marshalled and brilliantly organised. This is a chance to experience world famous Stratford-upon-Avon and to run amongst some of the most historical buildings in the country. You’ll enjoy a mainly flat, fast course, starting in the centre of the town, opposite Shakespeare’s old school, taking in sights such as the River Avon, Holy Trinity Church (home to the grave of William Shakespeare) and the Royal Shakespeare Theatres.

The Shakespeare Marathon has been awarded the BARR Gold standard, reflecting the high standards achieved in every aspect of its organisation.

📍 The Route...

This flat and fast route follows 1 lap for the half marathon and 2 laps for the marathon. The majority of the route follows closed roads around the town, with the remainder on the Stratford Greenway footpath, a hard compact footpath, ideal for pb racing!

The route heads from the town centre, past the racecourse, into Luddington & Welford-on-Avon before joining the Stratford Greenway back into Stratford-upon-Avon. The half marathon will head into the Recreation Ground from there. The marathon will complete a 2nd, extended loop, which also heads through Long Marston, before returning to the Recreation Ground for the finish.

Check the Shakespeare Run Website for more info and see the routes below.

Shakespeare Marathon Map

"All the necessary tools and resources to ensure fundraising success."

Team St Basils

By joining Team St Basils, you’re not just running a Half Marathon or Marathon; you’re making a meaningful impact. As a member, you’ll enjoy exclusive perks:

  • A St Basils running vest to proudly wear.
  • Personalised 1-1 support and invaluable fundraising guidance.
  • All the necessary tools and resources to ensure fundraising success.

By registering below and setting your own fundraising target, you become a crucial part of Team St Basils, and help us to prevent youth homelessness in the West Midlands.

Lace up your running shoes and join us for the Shakespeare Half Marathon or Marathon!

Ready to take the leap?

Sign-Up & Secure Your Place. 🏊

 

Click here to START!