If you missed out on a ballot entry this week for the Virgin Money London Marathon, fear not! Despite uncertainty over the pandemic restrictions, some trail alternatives over a similar distance in early autumn are already lined up. However, the calendar is nevertheless a little more sparse than usual - although, depending on how the current crisis develops, we could be seeing many more events added in the months to come.
Endurancelife Coastal Trail Series
Ravenscar, North Yorkshire, Sep 25
Aside from the marathon, you can choose from various other options from 10km to ultra (34.6 miles). Fully located in the North Yorkshire Moors National Park with sections along the Cleveland Way.
Maverick Adidas Terrex Frontier Ox Drove
Wiltshire, October 2
Choose from 52km, 41km, 22km or 13km from this well-established and popular series of trail races. Undulating route at Cranborne Chase AONB.
Atlantic Coast Challenge
Cornwall, October 8-10
As Trail Running's reporter found out last year, this is probably a course for a personal worst! But you can't beat the scenery and the sense of achievement you get - particularly if you complete day three at Land's End. Although it's a three-day stage event, you have the option to enter just one of the marathons.
Running Tribe Race Series
Buckinghamshire, October 23
Options from 10km up to 40 miles, including marathon. The course is a 10km loop, of which 80% is trail.