Marathon races near Bishop's Cleeve

The Shakespeare Marathon & Half Marathon begins in central Stratford-upon-Avon, across from Shakespeare’s former school, offering participants the choice of a full marathon or half marathon. It takes place in April on a mostly flat, fast course, suitable for both first-time runners and those aiming for a personal best. Its distinctiveness comes from its setting: this is a run through Shakespeare’s hometown and the surrounding Warwickshire countryside, not merely a town race. The route follows the River Avon, passes Holy Trinity Church (William Shakespeare’s burial place), and the Royal Shakespeare Theatres, then proceeds through English villages featuring thatched cottages, humpback bridges, and dry stone walls. Volunteers organize and staff the entire event, and the Shakespeare Marathon holds the BARR Gold standard for race organization. Over half of the funds generated benefit local charities, such as the Shakespeare Hospice, Stratford Samaritans, Life Space Trust, and ESH Works.

The Shakespeare Marathon & Half Marathon is a spring road race held in Stratford-upon-Avon, the Warwickshire town of Shakespeare's birth. It features both half marathon and full marathon distances on a chip-timed course. The route is largely on closed roads, designed for consistent running or a personal-best attempt. The race begins in the town centre, passes the racecourse, and proceeds through Luddington and Welford-on-Avon before connecting with the Stratford Greenway. This compact footpath leads back toward town. Half marathon participants complete one circuit and finish at the Recreation Ground. Marathon runners undertake two circuits, with the second loop extending to Long Marston before returning to the same finish line.