UK 20 mile running events

UK 20 mile races

Find upcoming UK 20 mile races for marathon training, including road races, fast courses, entry status, race dates and official entry links.

Listed races

16

Open now

7

Ballot races

0

Regions covered

9

Featured 20 mile race

A popular 20 mile to consider

Featured event

Running GP Bedford Autodrome - August

Bedford · East of England

Last checked: 6 Jun 2026

Next race

Sun, 2 Aug 2026

Distance

20 Mile

Surface

Road

Beginner-friendly

Event overview

The Running GP Bedford Autodrome is a flat, fast 20-mile road race held at the Bedford Autodrome motor circuit, making it a popular choice for runners in the final stages of marathon training. In addition to the 20-mile distance, the event also offers 5K, 10K and half marathon options. The closed-road circuit provides smooth tarmac and highly consistent pacing conditions with minimal elevation change, ideal for marathon pace efforts and long-run confidence building. The controlled, lap-based format allows runners to focus on pacing without interruption, making it especially appealing for those targeting a strong marathon performance. Part of the popular RunThrough UK series, the event delivers a well-organised race-day experience with regular aid stations and a supportive atmosphere for runners of all levels. RaceScan tracks entry status, race date, and key race details for the Running GP Bedford Autodrome in one place.

Running GP Bedford Autodrome - August featured race image
20 Mile
Photo: RaceScan

Showing 15 of 15 20 mile races · Sorted by next upcoming race date

20 mile guide

UK 20 mile races calendar and marathon training guide

Looking for UK 20 mile races? This page lists upcoming 20 mile running events across the UK, including race dates, locations, surfaces, entry status and official entry links.

Twenty mile races are especially useful for marathon training. Many runners use them as a final long race before a spring or autumn marathon to practise pacing, fuelling, kit choice and race-day routine.

Most UK 20 mile races are road events, but some use mixed-surface or trail routes. If you are using a 20 mile race as marathon preparation, check the course surface, elevation, timing and how it fits with your target marathon.

Entry availability varies by event. Some popular 20 mile races sell out quickly because they sit at key points in marathon training blocks. RaceScan helps you compare upcoming races and see which events are currently open.

FAQs

FAQs about UK 20 mile races

Why run a 20 mile race?

A 20 mile race is useful for marathon preparation because it lets you practise pacing, fuelling, kit choice and race-day routine without covering the full marathon distance.

When do most UK 20 mile races take place?

Many UK 20 mile races take place before major spring and autumn marathons, often during peak marathon training periods.

Are 20 mile races good marathon training?

Yes. Many runners use 20 mile races as marathon training because they provide a controlled long-distance effort and a useful test of race pace, nutrition and confidence.

Are UK 20 mile races usually road or trail?

Many UK 20 mile races are road events, but some use mixed or trail routes. Check the surface and elevation before entering, especially if you are using the race as marathon preparation.

Do 20 mile races sell out?

Some popular 20 mile races sell out because they are well placed before major marathons. Entering early is recommended if the race fits your training plan.