Growing Popularity of Running Increases Demand for 2026 Inverness Half Marathon

December 11, 2025

Growing Popularity of Running Increases Demand for 2026 Inverness Half Marathon

Organisers of the Inverness Half Marathon are anticipating record entry for the event in 2026, which takes place on 8^th March, thanks to a surge in the popularity of running, with 40% of the UK population now running every week*.

The Inverness Half Marathon will host the Scottish Half Marathon Championships and North District Championships in 2026 for the fourth consecutive year. The event is also an important fundraising opportunity, raising thousands of pounds each year for official charities Alzheimer Scotland, Highland Hospice, Mikeysline, SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health) and The Archie Foundation.

Organisers are proposing some enhanced measures for the 2026 event to improve the experience and safety for participants, spectators and other road users. The Half Marathon route remains unchanged however sections of the route will now be subject to single lane closures, and some roads will now be fully closed for a period while the race passes. The event will start at an earlier time of 11.30am to allow roads to be re-opened earlier.

Organisers are working closely with Highland Council and Police Scotland to minimise any inconvenience to local residents, businesses and visitors. Further information will be provided to all households and businesses along the route.

“Now in its 41^st edition, each year, the Inverness Half Marathon & 5K brings around 5,000 participants from across Scotland and the UK to the city,” explains Malcolm Sutherland, CEO of Caledonian Concepts, organiser of Inverness Half Marathon. “As the popularity of running and events like ours continue to grow, we’re confident that the changes being implemented will make the Inverness Half an even better experience for everyone involved.”

Highland Council Leader of Inverness and Area, Cllr Ian Brown added: “The Inverness Half Marathon is a major event for the city and wider region. Over many years it has contributed not only in supporting local businesses, but also in bringing people together, improving people’s fitness and wellbeing and showcasing our stunning surroundings.

“The changes proposed for next year will ensure the event continues to grow and thrive, attracting runners and visitors from across the country and beyond. By strengthening its future, we’re helping to create a vibrant, welcoming Inverness that benefits residents, participants, and the wider Highland economy.”

Malcolm Sutherland continues: “Entries are selling fast so we’d encourage anyone who wishes to take part to book their place now to avoid missing out!”

Entry is available for the Inverness Half Marathon & 5K at https://invernesshalfmarathon.co.uk/.

A map of the route with details of road closures can be found here.

*According to SportsShoes Running Report: Running Statistics 2025