If you are one of the many London Marathon ballot hopefuls who found out this week they had missed out on a spot in April’s big ticket event then fear not. Runners in Scotland have some options when it comes to springtime marathons and they are every bit as worth entering as the biggie down south! 

Glentress Trail Marathon scheduled for 19 February, is perhaps a little early to be classed as a true springtime affair - but it's too scenic not to include. Glentress Forest is described as the 'Gateway to the Tweed Valley Forest Park' and its superb array of forest trails make it a fantastic location for this trail running adventure. There may be no Tower Bridge, but there will be plenty of towering trees and heather-clad moorland.

Next up is another stunner - The Road To The Isles Marathon (6 May). Based in the picturesque Highland village of Arisaig, the route incorporates some of the most beautiful minor roads in the UK, with amazing uninterrupted views to the islands of Muck, Rum and Eigg alongside the pristine white beaches of Silver Sands and Camusdarach. This is a great family running festival with something for everyone – and a spectacular destination so take the whole family and make the most of your time in a little piece of paradise (Scottish style). 

And then there is Edinburgh which will once again host its ever-popular marathon, back for 2023 on 28 May. Known for being one of the fastest marathons in the UK, this much-loved event is the ultimate running experience and with an entire festival of races over the course of a weekend, it offers something for runners of all standards and ages to get involved.

Last but by no means least is Baxters Loch Ness Marathon at the very beginning of October. One of the most stunning marathons in the world with a real elite presence but with a huge element of fun and fundraising. Cleary not a springtime marathon but the perfect goal to set yourself to keep you motivated in those early, dark, damp days of 2023.

London may not want you in 2023, but you can be assured of a fantastic race experience at any one of these events, why not check them out? 

Image: Edinburgh Marathon/Gsi Events