Palace Half Marathon
Make your mark at one of the UK’s major tourist attractions on this amazing half marathon at Hampton Court Palace.
A half marathon for the history books!
Please note, the 2024 Palace Half Marathon event is closed, so the details below are regarding the 2025 event! Be sure to register your interest and we will be in touch as soon as you can sign up to be part of Team Marsden in 2025.
Take in the amazing cultural sights of Henry VIII’s stomping ground at this flat, picturesque event. Starting within the palace itself, before heading out along the Thames, this is the perfect race for keen runners and beginners alike.
The closed road start and finish, as well as the bustling post-event village, add to a true ‘big race’ feel.
By taking on this unique challenge, you'll be supporting the vital work of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity in cancer care, treatment, and research worldwide.
On this page:
Already got your own place?
Have you got your own place for the 2024 event but still want to be part of Team Marsden and raise money to help people with cancer here and across the world? Just get in touch and let us know.
How to take part
Registration
- Register your interest for 2025 on the form. When the event is open, we'll be in touch so you can fully register for a charity place. 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, you’ll be all set to lace up your trainers and get running!
- Registration will be £15 per person, and we ask each participant to reach a minimum fundraising target of £200.
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 Palace Half route
The race starts within the Palace grounds and heads out alongside the Tow Path adjacent to the Thames. Once reaching the end of the Towpath for the first time, runners head across the Kingston Bridge and run back alongside the opposite side of the river before entering the Towpath again. Upon arrival at the split for a second time, turn left and enter the beautiful Home Park before an exciting sprint finish inside the Palace grounds.
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.
Saying thank you
Heather took on the Hampton Court Palace Half Marathon as a way of saying thank you for the treatment she received at The Royal Marsden.
"The feeling of completing the race was amazing - I was so happy I managed to finish it all and was so proud of myself. The atmosphere was really positive and supportive.
The Royal Marsden is the BEST - they are a world-leading cancer centre. They do so much research, lots of trials, and use cutting edge technologies and treatments. They also work with other hospitals across the UK and around the world to help improve diagnoses and treatments.
This is why I wanted to raise money - to say thank you to them for the amazing treatment they are providing for me and others."
Heather's support is vital for providing the very best cancer research and care for all those affected by cancer. Inspired? Take on the challenge for yourself!
Team Marsden gallery
