The Hackney Half Marathon 2025 is around the corner, with 25,000 runners preparing to take on the 13-mile race this coming weekend.
Alongside the half marathon, Hackney Marshes will be transformed into the Hackney Moves festival, with free entertainment, music and fitness sessions delivered to runners and spectators.
The event’s organisers have revealed that a host of stars are set to take on the half marathon again this year including mother and son duo, Ross and Diane, from Traitors season 2. Online creators such as WillNE, Reev, Lewis Bowden and TikTok sensation ItalianBach will also be competing.
Whether youâre taking part or going along to support, here is everything you need to know to make the most of the Hackney Moves weekend.
When is the Hackney Half Marathon?
The half marathon will take place on Sunday 18 May with the first runners setting off at 9am, and final runners crossing the finish line at 1.30pm.
According to Hackney Move organisers, there will be large crowds in the festival village so runners should aim to arrive at least one hour before their start time.
Runners should also collect their event pack on Friday or Saturday from the event village, unless they opted to receive it by post.
The wider festival is open on both the Saturday from 9am to 6pm and Sunday from 7am to 4pm.
What is the route and where can spectators watch?
Spectators have been encouraged to cheer on their runners and enjoy the Hackney Moves festival throughout Saturday and Sunday.
A spokesperson from Hackney Moves said: “There is so much for spectators to see during the race, from spotting your runner to catching DJs and dance groups at various checkpoints along the route.”
The route starts and ends on Hackney Marshes, and includes Mare Street Market, the famous town hall, Hackney Wick, Hackney Picturehouse, Victoria Park, and the Hackney Empire.
Hackney Moves Festival
Hackney Moves festival will run alongside Sunday’s half marathon and provide a fun day out for families, with activities and entertainment for all ages on offer.
Fitness sessions and live music will take place on the main stages, while group exercises and other activities will be offered across the event village.
A host of traders will be onsite providing local food, drink and merchandise.
In regards to the line-up, Hackney Moves website states: “The Main Stage will host fitness sessions and entertainment from East Londonâs finest group exercise gurus, bands and DJâs.
“From Fight Klub to Zumba and Beatboxers to UK Garage Queen, Kele Le Roc, we have a line-up to keep you engaged all weekend.”
Official Hackney Moves Community Champions and Partner organisations will be present at the event village and on route, so people can find out more about getting involved in their fitness initiatives.
Several new partners will be present on race day, including Tinder â with a Tinder Zone on route for runners to experience. Tribe, Hoop Chips, VITHIT and Powerade will also have stations in the event village while also providing fuel to those taking on the half marathon.
Where are the nearest Tube and train stations?
If you’re travelling to the event, the festival is located nearby several tube and overground stations.
Tube:
- Stratford Station â 25-minute walk through Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
- Leyton Station â 20-minute walk
Overground:
- Hackney Wick â 25-minute walk
- Clapton â 30-minute walk
Please note that Homerton Station will be closed on the morning of Hackney Moves.
The event organisers do not recommend travelling to the event via car due to road closures, but paid parking is available at Westfield Stratford City which is a 25-minute walk away.
How to register for Hackney Half Marathon 2026
If you wish to participate in next year’s event, you better move quickly, as the event sold out in just two weeks last year.
2026 entries go live exclusively to finishers on race day before going to those who have signed up for early access, so it is highly recommended that runners register their interest now.
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