Unless you've been living under a rock or been too busy circumnavigating the Moon, you must be aware that it's the TCS London Marathon on Sunday, 26 April 2026. With that in mind, Long Player Running is hosting Dorset's very own 'Not the London Marathon Run'.

London Calling is all the fun, without the crowds, set along the peaceful North Dorset Trailway, with views of Hambledon Hill, the restored Shillingstone Station (1863-1966) and the Bere Marsh Farm rewilding project.

If you are among the million or so disappointed runners who were rejected in the London Marathon public ballot for this year's race, why not let off some steam by running the marathon distance, on the same day, on a disused railway line?

London Calling is a 7-hour challenge event with a 'rock 'n roll' start time from 8:00-09:30, where you rock up and choose your distance on the day. The race is held on a firm, flat 5K trail route, with the best aid station going and all the support you may need. Parking is available for £6 per car. Entrance for parking is on Blandford Road, DT11 0SG. The nearest train station is Gillingham (12 miles away).

Bournemouth-based Long Player Running is fundraising for The Big Yellow Bus Garden Project, a fantastic charity that connects those with challenges and the wider community with nature. The start and finish are based at the project, which will provide hot refreshments and a place to socialise before, during, and after the event.

Long Player Running is a music-themed, inclusive events company and community. They offer multi-distance events set in beautiful surroundings in and around Dorset. Whatever your experience or ability, they will help you achieve your record, from a 5K to an ultramarathon.

Soundtracks and trails await you. You can enter right here on runABC South's race listing page.

Course photo courtesy of Long Player Running