Runners weighing up their 2026 marathon options between London and Edinburgh now have a flexible solution. The Edinburgh Marathon Festival team is offering a full refund to anyone who enters Edinburgh Marathon before the end of June and later secures a place at London.

Organisers explain: "This means runners don’t need to wait for the London ballot results before committing to a place on one of the UK’s fastest marathon courses. Or, for those up for the challenge, why not take on both?"

The Edinburgh Marathon 2026 will take place on 24 May and is widely known for its fast and flat route, earning it the title of the UK’s fastest marathon by Runner’s World. The course begins at Potterrow in Edinburgh and winds through some of the city’s most iconic landmarks before heading out to the scenic East Lothian coastline and finishing in Musselburgh.

Those taking part receive a medal and finisher’s t-shirt, with time to celebrate their achievement among friends and family in the buzzing finish area.

Many participants choose to run for charity, which can be a powerful motivator through the toughest training days. Charities often provide valuable support leading up to race day, as well as a boost on the day itself. Setting up a GoFundMe page is one of the simplest and most effective ways to raise money, and seeing donations come in can be hugely rewarding.

With a generous refund policy in place and one of the best courses in the UK on offer, now is the perfect time to lock in your place at the Edinburgh Marathon while keeping your options open for London.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Edinburgh Marathon website.

Image: Edinburgh Marathon