The Edinburgh Marathon Festival (EMF) returns for its 2026 edition on the weekend of May 23–24, welcoming tens of thousands of runners to Scotland’s capital. Events begin Saturday with the EMF 10K, 5K, and junior races ranging from 1.5K to 5K, all held in the dramatic setting of Holyrood Park. Sunday features the flagship Edinburgh Marathon—renowned for its flat, fast course and breathtaking views—as well as the Half Marathon and the Hairy Haggis Team Relay. The marathon starts in Edinburgh’s city center and heads east through East Lothian, finishing in the coastal town of Musselburgh. Whether you’re chasing a PB, running with friends, or supporting a charity, EMF offers an inclusive and unforgettable race experience.
Races
Marathon
Half Marathon
10km
5km
Race Date:
24 May, 2026
The Edinburgh Marathon, organized by GSi Events Ltd, will take place on Sunday, May 24, 2026, in Edinburgh, Scotland. Renowned as one of the UK’s fastest marathons, the 26.2-mile course features a net elevation drop of approximately 70 meters, guiding runners from the historic city center to the scenic East Lothian coastline. 
Weather based on historical averages. Route data provided by Strava, based on last year's race.
FAQs
What is the Edinburgh Marathon?
How long is the Edinburgh Marathon?
Where does the Edinburgh Marathon take place?
What is the elevation gain of the Edinburgh Marathon?
How can I prepare for the Edinburgh Marathon?
How do I choose the right training plan for the Edinburgh Marathon?
The Edinburgh Marathon, organized by GSi Events Ltd, will take place on Sunday, May 24, 2026, in Edinburgh, Scotland. Renowned as one of the UK’s fastest marathons, the 26.2-mile course features a net elevation drop of approximately 70 meters, guiding runners from the historic city center to the scenic East Lothian coastline. 
The Edinburgh Marathon is 42km long.
The Edinburgh Marathon takes place in Edinburgh, UK.
Runna classifies the Edinburgh Marathon elevation profile as Flat.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Edinburgh Marathon?
The Edinburgh Marathon, organized by GSi Events Ltd, will take place on Sunday, May 24, 2026, in Edinburgh, Scotland. Renowned as one of the UK’s fastest marathons, the 26.2-mile course features a net elevation drop of approximately 70 meters, guiding runners from the historic city center to the scenic East Lothian coastline. 
How long is the Edinburgh Marathon?
The Edinburgh Marathon is 42km long.
Where does the Edinburgh Marathon take place?
The Edinburgh Marathon takes place in Edinburgh, UK.
What is the elevation gain of the Edinburgh Marathon?
Runna classifies the Edinburgh Marathon elevation profile as Flat.
How can I prepare for the Edinburgh Marathon?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalized training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the Edinburgh Marathon?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalized training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
More
Sport:
Running
Qualifier:
London Marathon Qualifier
Tags:
London Marathon Qualifier
Major City
Relay
Kid friendly
This event listing is for informational purposes only. Runna is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Edinburgh Marathon Festival 2026 or GSi Events. All event details are based on publicly available information and are provided solely to help users discover running events. Runna does not use any official logos, images, or proprietary content from this event or its organiser. Any trademarks or names mentioned are used descriptively to identify the event in a factual manner. For the most accurate and up to date information (including to register or purchase an entry to the event), please visit the Edinburgh Marathon Festival 2026 website.
