An exhilarating new, closed-road half-marathon is set to come to south London thanks to a collaboration between Merton Council and the Great Run Company, organisers of the world’s biggest half marathon, the Great North Run. 

The event will take place in the London Borough of Merton in spring 2027, according to plans set to be approved by the council’s cabinet later this month. 

Thousands of runners will tackle the 13.1-mile route that’s set to take them right across the leafy London borough: through Morden, Wimbledon and Mitcham; into some of the best parks in the region; and past some of the world’s most iconic sporting venues.  

Councillor Ross Garrod, Leader of Merton Council, said: “Merton is on a mission to become London’s Borough of Sport, which means putting sport at the heart of everything we do.  

“Our new half-marathon will be a flagship moment in that journey, showcasing how sport can bring communities together, open doors to healthier lifestyles, and help put Merton on the map as a destination for major mass-participation events.   

“We hope that this will become south London’s biggest running event, and a draw for runners across the capital and the region.  

“I am so proud that Merton Council is able to team up with the Great Run Company to deliver such a fantastic lasting legacy for the people of Merton.” 

The event will welcome runners of all ages and abilities, from those who are starting their running journeys to experienced athletes – and promises to be one of the most exciting new additions to London’s running calendar.   

It will begin and end in Morden Park, Morden, taking advantage of the area’s excellent transport links at the start of the Northern Line. 

Sir Brendan Foster, founder and president of the Great Run Company, said: “Great events change places for the better, and that’s exactly what this half-marathon will do for Merton.  

“The Great Run Company has spent decades delivering world-class mass-participation events, and we’re proud to bring that experience to a borough with the ambition to become London’s Borough of Sport.” 

Local sports clubs and community groups will be actively involved in the event, ensuring the benefits are felt well beyond those crossing the start line. There will be fundraising opportunities for local charities, a local schools’ challenge, and a free 5k race to ensure that the whole community can get involved. 

Former Olympian hurdler and Mitcham resident, Lorna Boothe, said: “As someone who’s spent their career in sport, I know how events like a half-marathon can unite a community. Seeing a new event like this launch here is genuinely exciting and a big step towards making Merton London’s Borough of Sport.  

“We have a proud sporting spirit here, and this race will give people of all abilities the chance to challenge themselves. Or people can simply come out to cheer on the racers from the sidelines. I look forward to seeing the streets come alive next year.”

On race weekend, thousands of runners and tens of thousands of supporters will generate a significant boost for Merton’s local economy, supporting high streets, cafés, shops, hotels and transport services.  An independent economic impact study forecast an annual economic boost of up to £1.7m to local business.  

Business-owner John Merriman, who runs Metronome Coffee House in Morden, said: “As a long-distance runner and Merton resident I am excited that the borough will be gaining its own half-marathon. I’m hoping that my business in Morden town centre will benefit from the increase in footfall. And we will be getting our own run-club involved too.” 

Craig Hurring, CEO of the business improvement district, Love Wimbledon, added: “This is brilliant news, and further reinforces Merton’s position as London’s Borough of Sport. The half-marathon is great news for our businesses too, with over £1m of additional spend forecast into the borough in the first year alone. We can’t wait to welcome runners and their friends and families into Wimbledon for the event, and will work with Merton Council and our local business community to ensure we deliver the best possible experience for everyone attending.” 

Pancho Pavez, 18, cross country runner for the Hercules Wimbledon Athletics Club, and London Youth Games competitor, said:

“Merton is literally the perfect location for an interesting competition: beautiful hills and undulations, multiple sports areas of international interest, and well-kept roads – it will make for a fantastic event. Because it’s in such a convenient location, you’ll get competition from all over Surrey and London. 

“It’s really exciting that this major event will bring thousands out into Merton, running around the neighbourhoods I know well. I can’t wait!” 

More details, including the name of the event, registration details, route guide and charity entry information will be released in the coming weeks.  

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