Run through Edinburgh’s landmarks in a vibrant 10K sprint on 20 September.
The Edinburgh men’s and women’s 10K will roll across the capital on Sunday, 20 September 2026. The men’s start is slated for 9:30 am followed by the women’s field at 11:00 am. Organized by GSi Events under the umbrella of the Edinburgh Marathon Festival, the race is marketed as an accessible first-time running experience organisers estimate that roughly 40 percent of participants have never entered a timed road race before.
Start line, finish line and After a brief warm-up, the athletes set off on a point-to-point course that culminates inside the grandstand of Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium. Timing is chip-based, ensuring precise results, and every finisher receives a medal and a technical T-shirt. The event concludes with a celebratory session on the stadium’s east stand, offering spectators a panoramic view of the city’s skyline.
Scenic route through Edinburgh’s heart
The course threads together some of the city’s most iconic sights. Runners first glide past Princes Street Gardens with the Castle looming overhead, then weave through the towering Scott Monument before reaching the modern silhouette of the Scottish Parliament. Continuing south, the route descends into Holyrood Park skirting the base of Arthur’s Seat and then loops back through the cobbled charm of the Grassmarket.
The final stretch follows Fountainbridge westward, guiding athletes straight to the stadium’s entrance, delivering a blend of historic ambience and contemporary urban energy.
Road closures and traffic impact
To safeguard participants, a series of temporary road restrictions will be enforced. Below is a concise list of affected streets and their closure windows:
- Johnston Terrace full closure 5 am – 12 pm
- Lawnmarket from Castlehill roundabout to George IV Bridge, 5 am – 12 pm
- Castlehill Ramsay Lane to Lawnmarket, 5 am – 12 pm
- Queen’s Drive and Horse Wynd entire length, 5 am – 12:30 pm
- Market Street (Waverley Bridge → Jeffrey Street): 7:30 am – 11:30 am
- Cockburn Street and Waverley Bridge (south of Princes Street): 7:30 am – 11:30 am
- Bank Street, North Bank Street, Mound, Mound Place 9:15 am – 9:45 am & 10:45 am – 11:15 am
- Numerous side streets including Jeffrey Street, St Mary’s Street, Canongate, High Street and the full Grassmarket segment: 7:30 am – 12:30 pm
- West Approach Road (westbound, Roseburn → Dundee): 8:30 am – 2 pm
Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes and to follow signage posted by Edinburgh City Council throughout the day.
Practical information for participants
Entry costs are £37.75 (£35.75 for affiliated runners). Registration is handled via the official event website, where participants can also join the charitable “Team CHAS” initiative. Accommodation options abound within a short walk of the Royal Mile, ranging from boutique hotels to budget hostels; a dedicated accommodation search tool is provided on the event page. The expo at Lawnmarket will be open from 8:00 am, offering hydration stations, gear checks, and a chance to pick up the race packet.
