The 'Russell-Cooke' Kingston Half Marathon will return on the 4th October 2026. Entries are now open.
The Kingston 10k will be taking a rest year whilst we work on creating a better course.
Join over 2,000 like-minded runners and speed through the streets and stunning scenes of historic Kingston upon Thames.
The Kingston Half Marathon isn’t just a race—it’s a scenic tour through some of southwest London’s most historic and iconic landmarks. As runners make their way along the flat, fast course, they’re treated to a route steeped in royal history, river views, and architectural charm. Here’s a highlight of what you’ll see along the way:
TEDDINGTON LOCK & WEIR
The original lock dates back to the year 1810. From this point downstream the Thames Path runs on both sides of the river and upstream it runs on the Surrey side only.
Did you know… The lock was the location of the famous Fish-Slapping Dance sketch in Monty Python’s Flying Circus
Crossing the River Thames during the run, Kingston Bridge connects runners to centuries of history. First dating back to 1190, and rebuilt in 1828 using bricks originally prepared for a Napoleonic war that never happened, it was once the only crossing between London Bridge and Staines. Today, it provides a grand riverside vista and a literal bridge between past and present and also mile 5 of the race.
At mile 8, the race runs pass the majestic Hampton Court Palace, a former royal residence rich with Tudor and Baroque architecture. Built in the early 1500s, it was famously seized by King Henry VIII from Cardinal Wolsey.
As runners pass through Kingston, they’re near the Coronation Stone—a legendary slab where at least seven Anglo-Saxon kings were crowned, including Æthelstan, the first King of England. Its mysterious past includes possible Druidic or Roman roots, and its current resting place near the Guildhall still commands awe. In 2025, Kingston celebrated the 1,100th anniversary of the coronation of Æthelstan.
A breath of fresh air awaits in Canbury Gardens, a beautifully maintained Victorian-era riverside park. Developed in 1890, its tranquil paths and leafy greenery offer a peaceful interlude midway through the race—perfect for a visual reset before heading back toward the finish line.
At mile 9, runners cross Hampton Court Bridge, an elegant structure first built in 1753 and redesigned in 1933. The original wooden bridge was so unpopular it was burned on purpose. Today’s bridge provides not just a crossing point, but a symbol of the community's evolving character—and a key moment before the final push toward the palace.
Whether you're chasing a PB or soaking up the scenery, the Kingston Half Marathon delivers more than just miles—it’s a run through over a thousand years of history. From ancient coronations to riverside views, every step brings you closer to Britain’s regal past.
Thank you to our event partners...
