If you are planning to take part in the Hackney 2025 Half Marathon or just want to support the runners, this article is for you. The half marathon, which takes place on May 18, is one of London’s most exciting running events. It combines an exciting course, live music, a festival atmosphere, and excellent organization.
Date and venue
The Hackney Half Marathon will take place on Sunday, May 18, 2025. As in previous years, the start and finish will take place at Hackney Marshes, which is located at Homerton Road, Hackney, E9 5PF. As part of the Hackney Moves festival, which will cover the whole weekend, there will also be a free Hackney Community 5K run.
It will take place the day before, May 17, and is open to anyone aged 13 and over.
Start time
The race starts at 9:00 a.m., but participants will take to the course in waves, depending on their expected finish time. Two weeks prior to the event, each runner will receive an email with the wave and the exact start time. The information will also be duplicated on the bib. Organizers recommend arriving at least an hour before your start time to prepare, warm up, and avoid rushing.
Receiving the start number
If you chose to have your start pack delivered by post when you registered, you will receive it a few days before the race. If you prefer to collect it yourself, you can do so at the Festival Village on Hackney Moor on May 16 and 17. You will need to bring your ID document and a QR code which will be sent to your email. It is important to remember that numbers are not issued on the day of the race, so getting one in advance is a prerequisite for participation.
Route of the half marathon
The Hackney Half Marathon route is one of the most scenic and comfortable to run. It is ideal for both beginners and experienced athletes looking to improve their personal bests.
The route passes through the area’s key landmarks: Hackney Downs, Hackney Empire, Stonebridge Gardens, Regent’s Canal, Broadway Market, London Fields, and Hackney Wick. The finish is again at Hackney Moorlands, where participants will have a final dash to the spectators’ applause.
Lockers and changing rooms
There will be bag drop tents in the Festival Village. Your bib number has two tags: one to attach to your bag and the other to keep retrieving your belongings after the race. Locker rooms are also located in the Festival Village near the storage points. Organizers recommend arriving in running gear to minimize the need to change on-site.
There will also be a quiet area on the festival grounds for resting, praying, breastfeeding, or just a moment of calm before the race.