Reading Half Marathon returns on Sunday 23 March 2025

Reading’s half marathon is back on Sunday 23 March 2025, with thousands of runners taking on the challenge. Residents are encouraged to check for road closures and plan their journeys ahead of race day.

The Green Park Reading half marathon will see elite athletes, experienced runners and first-timers tackling the 13-mile course through the heart of Reading. The event is one of the UK’s most popular races and raises thousands of pounds for charity each year.

Road closures and travel advice

Residents are advised to plan ahead, as rolling road closures will be in place throughout the day. Roads along the route may close at any time between 6am and 4pm, with diversions in place and roads reopening as soon as it is safe.

The Reading half marathon residents’ hotline will be available on race day at 0118 937 2771.

Race route and timings

Half marathon

The half marathon starts at 10:15am from Green Park. It then heads through Whitley, the University of Reading campus and into the town centre, before looping west towards Prospect Park. Runners then head down the A33 relief road, finishing in front of thousands of spectators at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.

Green Park challenge

The 3km Green Park challenge, a family-friendly fun run, starts earlier at 8:30am and takes place within Green Park.

A celebration of running and community

The Green Park Reading half marathon is organised by Goldline Events. The council supports the event through road closure coordination, an information point at the stadium and staffing the residents’ hotline.

Around 700 volunteers provide vital support, while spectators line the streets to cheer on the runners and soak up the atmosphere.

Councillor comments

Cllr Adele Barnett-Ward, Lead Councillor for Culture and Leisure

It is always a thrill to see so many people coming out onto the streets of Reading to be part of the half-marathon.

It is not just a big day for the runners but for their friends and family, and residents who cheer them on along the route and enjoy the amazing, friendly atmosphere.

The organisers work closely with the council to keep disturbance to a minimum but there will inevitably be some disruption. I would strongly advise anyone planning to travel in Reading on half-marathon day to check for road closures, plan their journey in advance and allow extra time.

I wish everyone taking part in the half marathon all the very best and hope that many thousands of pounds are raised for very worthy causes.”