East London will host a brand-new running event this weekend as the Saucony Run Shoreditch Half makes its debut on Sunday. Thousands of runners are expected to take part in the sold‑out 13.1‑mile race, which will start and finish beside Shoreditch Park. Everything you need to know:
Race day details
The event begins at 09:00 on Sunday 20 September, with organisers advising runners to arrive by 08:00 to allow time for bag drop, warm‑up and entry into the correct start pen. The Event Village, located inside Shoreditch Park, will be open from 07:30 to 14:00 for pre‑race preparations and post‑race celebrations.
New route
The new half marathon route takes runners on an extended tour of East London, passing through Hoxton Street Market, Regent’s Canal, Newington Green, Stoke Newington, Clissold Park and De Beauvoir Town before returning to Shoreditch Park.
Bib collection
Most participants will have received their race pack by post. Those who opted for collection, or have not received their pack, can collect their bib from The Saucony Store, Covent Garden in the days leading up to the half marathon.
Collection times:
• Thursday & Friday: 12:00–19:00
• Saturday: 10:00–17:30
Runners must bring their bib on race day, with safety pins attached and emergency details completed. A bag drop will be available, though organisers encourage runners to arrive race ready to reduce queues.
For further information and a race day essentials checklist, check out the Race Day Guide: https://racedayguide.runshoreditch.com/.
Spectator spots
Thousands of spectators are expected to line the streets as Shoreditch comes together to celebrate movement. Several locations offer multiple viewing opportunities along the route.
Shoreditch Park allows spectators to witness the start and finish while delivering the biggest atmosphere on course with live music and entertainment on hand. Newington Green offers the best opportunity to see runners more than once, with the route passing through three times.
Other great viewing spots include Balls Pond Road, Downham Road and Clissold Park, which all provide slightly more room for groups to gather and cheer their runners on.
Runners and spectators can access live tracking and event information via the Saucony Run Shoreditch App, available on the Apple Store and Google Play.
Travel advice
Attendees are encouraged to use public transport, with several stations within walking distance. Old Street, Hoxton, Haggerston, Liverpool Street, Dalston Kingsland, Dalston Junction and Essex Road are all suitable options along the route with event signage in place.
Cycle parking will not be provided, and docking stations along the route will be suspended while roads in the area will close from 06:00, with driving not recommended due to limited parking.
Looking ahead
2026’s inaugural event has sold out, but entries for the 2027 Saucony Run Shoreditch Half will open shortly after race day. Those wishing to take part next year can register their interest now at https://www.runshoreditch.com/.
With thanks to New Reach
