How to get into the Shakespeare Marathon 2027.

Ways in

There are 3 ways into the Shakespeare Marathon, each with what it involves and, where we have it, the organizer's own detail.

1. 01

   First come, first served

   Entry opens on a set date and closes when the field is full.

   At this race: Standard entries on sale now (£45 half marathon / £50 marathon, plus 5% booking fee)

2. 02

   Ballot

   Apply while the ballot is open. Places are then drawn at random from everyone who applied, and those drawn are invited to pay the entry fee.

   At this race: Entries are drawn at random from everyone who applies.

3. 03

   Charity place

   Take a place from a partner charity and commit to raising a minimum amount for it. Charities usually ask you to apply and choose their runners.

   At this race: Run for Stratford upon Avon & District Samaritans

   Organizer's details

Ballot dates

The ballot for the 2027 race, as the organizer announced it.

1. Ballot opens

   31 Mar 2026

2. Ballot closes

   14 Apr 2026

3. Draw

   TBA

4. Results

   TBA

Charity places and tours

Both are guaranteed places. A charity place asks you to raise a minimum amount; a tour package bundles entry with travel and a hotel.

FAQ

When does the Shakespeare Marathon ballot open?

The ballot for the 2027 race opened on 31 Mar 2026 and closed on 14 Apr 2026. Dates for the 2028 ballot haven't been announced yet.

Can I get into the Shakespeare Marathon without the ballot?

Yes. Besides the ballot there are 2 other ways in. First come, first served: Standard entries on sale now (£45 half marathon / £50 marathon, plus 5% booking fee). Charity place: Run for Stratford upon Avon & District Samaritans.

Looking for other ballots? See every ballot opening soon.