The route for the inaugural Saucony Run Shoreditch half marathon has been confirmed, following the event’s upgrade from a 10km distance in 2025. Organised by Motiv Sports UK, the debut 13.1 mile course will take place on September 20, 2026.
Over 10,000 runners are expected to participate in the event, which starts and finishes alongside Shoreditch Park in East London, UK. The park will also serve as the event village, hosting music and food vendors for participants and spectators.
The new course has been designed to showcase East London neighbourhoods, including Hoxton Market, Clissold Park, and Stoke Newington. Runners will also pass through Newington Green and De Beauvoir. According to the organiser, the route is relatively flat with a total elevation almost identical to the Hackney Half, which is also managed by Motiv Sports UK.
The flat profile is intended to appeal to both new runners and experienced athletes seeking a personal best. Key roads included in the debut route are Essex Road, St Paul’s Road, Queen’s Drive, and Albion Road. Newington Green has been highlighted as a primary spectator spot, where supporters can see runners at three different points during the race.
Emily Whitaker, Event Director at Motiv Sports UK, said “We wanted to create a route that feels fast and welcoming. The course takes runners through some of the area’s most iconic neighbourhoods, all while keeping elevation low, perfect for anyone chasing a new PB or stepping up to the half marathon distance for the first time. We can’t wait to see Shoreditch come alive on race day.”
Motiv Sports UK adds that it is working with local community groups and running clubs to manage the event’s impact on the neighbourhoods along the course. The transition to a half marathon format follows a launch announcement last month that reportedly saw strong early interest from the running community.
Motiv Sports UK is an endurance event organiser that manages several high-profile races across the UK, including the Hackney Half and other urban running events.
