Charity runs
Charity runs give you more than a finish line — they give your training purpose. Secure a charity place in everything from local 5Ks to sell-out races like the Great North Run and London Marathon, back a cause you love and turn every mile into real impact. Browse charity runs below, or filter by place, distance or date. Read more
How charity places work
A charity place is a guaranteed entry into an event, allocated by a charity rather than bought from the organiser. You apply to the charity, commit to a fundraising target and get your place plus a support package — fundraising pack, training tips and a team around you.
Three steps to get started
Choose an event and distance you can genuinely commit to. A realistic plan beats a dramatic one, and it makes fundraising easier because people can see you'll follow through.
Compare charities — the same event often comes with different offers. Check the fundraising minimum, any registration fee, the support package and, above all, whether the cause matters to you. When your reason is clear, asking for donations feels natural.
Apply early and start fundraising. Begin with your inner circle, make your story specific, set mini-milestones and thank people loudly. Allocations for big-name events fill fast.
Want to read more? Read the guides, tips and advice from our blog.
Any questions? Read our FAQs for answers.
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Popular charity runs
Featured runs to run for charity across the UK.
Charity runs 2026–2027
Compare charity places across every distance, from local 5Ks to sell-out marathons.
Charity runs blog
Guides, tips and advice on running for charity.
Top fundraisers on TimeOutdoors
Inspired? Find your charity run and start raising.
Charity runs FAQs
Answers to the most common questions about running for charity.
Usually, yes — that’s the point of a charity place. But availability is limited, especially for major races, so apply early.
It depends on the race and the charity. Some set higher targets for the biggest events; others offer lower targets for local runs, and for 'own place' runners, there's not usually a target.
Often, yes. Many charities welcome own-place runners and will set a lower fundraising target or just ask you to raise as much as you can.
Policies vary. Some charities may ask you to cover the shortfall; others may be flexible if you communicate early. Treat the target as a real commitment.
Many do — from fundraising packs to training advice, community groups, and sometimes branded kit. Check what’s included before you apply.
In the UK, eligible donations can often be boosted through Gift Aid (if donors qualify). Your charity will guide you on the exact setup.
Go to Great North Run charity places and apply early. Big-name allocations can fill quickly.
Check Hackney Half charity places for East London energy and a brilliant first-half marathon fundraising target.
Head to The Big Half charity places for a feel-good London half with a strong charity focus.
See Royal Parks Half charity places for a central London classic with a huge charity presence.
Use London Landmarks Half charity places for a sightseeing half that’s ideal for fundraising momentum.
Often, yes. Many major overseas events work with charities and travel partners who can offer charity entries, packages, or 'run for charity' routes alongside standard race entry.
Use these quick links to start your search: Paris Marathon charity places, Berlin Marathon charity places, Athens Marathon charity places, Sydney Marathon charity places, and Cape Town Marathon charity places.
The basics are similar (apply → commit → fundraise), but overseas races may also include extra logistics like travel packages, accommodation options, bib collection rules, and tighter confirmation deadlines. Always check what’s included.
Yes — if you’re taking a charity place, fundraising is the commitment that unlocks the entry. If you already have your own race place, some charities may still welcome you as an 'own place' runner.
Earlier than you think — popular races and charity allocations can go quickly, and travel prices rarely get cheaper the longer you leave it.
Lean into the story: “I’m travelling to run [Paris/Berlin/Athens/Sydney/Cape Town] for [cause].” Share your training route, countdown milestones, and one clear target at a time. Big, bold goals land better when you break them into smaller wins.
Charity runs near you
Looking for events in a specific place? Explore our guides to charity runs in towns, cities and regions across the UK.