Penguins dancing outside the Bank of England, a seven-foot yeti in Trafalgar Square and 26,000 runners taking over central London. This is not your average Sunday morning 10K.

The Cancer Research UK London Winter Run returns on Sunday 21 February 2027 for its 12th edition, but anyone hoping to join the fun needs to pay attention to the calendar.

The current guaranteed public entry window closes on Wednesday 14 October, with organisers warning that the event regularly reaches capacity well before race day.

The Winter Run has built its reputation on combining a serious city centre running event with some wonderfully daft entertainment. Closed roads, famous London landmarks and enthusiastic crowds provide the setting, while giant dancing penguins, winter characters and the occasional enormous yeti ensure nobody takes themselves too seriously.

That doesn't mean the running is an afterthought. The 10K attracts runners chasing personal bests alongside first timers, charity fundraisers and those who simply fancy a memorable morning in the capital.

For many returning runners, the distinctive winter themed finisher medal is another reason to keep coming back.

The event supports Cancer Research UK, giving thousands of participants an opportunity to combine their running ambitions with fundraising for cancer research.

With capacity set at 26,000 and the guaranteed entry deadline approaching, the message from organisers is straightforward: don't leave it too late.

After all, there aren't many opportunities to chase a 10K personal best while being encouraged by dancing penguins.

You can secure an entry now via the runABC race hub.

Image courtesy A.S.O.