Chester Marathon

Entry is open on a first-come, first-served basis through RunThrough. Places are capped and fill up, so it's worth entering as soon as registration opens. Charity spots are also available through the official race charity, Hospice of the Good Shepherd, and a number of partner charities.

Yes, the Chester Marathon is a Boston qualifier. The flat course makes it one of the more realistic options in the UK for runners chasing a qualifying time.

The course is very flat, with minimal net elevation change over the full distance. There are no significant climbs. The terrain runs through gentle Cheshire countryside before returning to Chester city centre.

The time limit is 6 hours.

Race day in October typically sees cool conditions, with temperatures starting in the mid-40s Fahrenheit and rising to the mid-50s by midday. Overcast skies and a chance of rain are common in northwest England at this time of year, but conditions are generally well-suited to fast running.

The race has a cap of around 5,000 runners, making it a mid-sized event with a focused, competitive atmosphere.

Both the start and finish are at Chester Racecourse in the city centre. Manchester Airport is roughly 40 miles away, and accommodation and parking are readily available throughout Chester.