London braces for a record-breaking Winter Run as 26,000 take on the capital’s biggest 10K

The streets of central London are set for a spectacle this February as the Cancer Research UK London Winter Run confirms its biggest year yet. On Sunday the fifteenth of February twenty twenty six, a record breaking twenty six thousand runners will line up at the start, officially selling out the UK’s largest ten kilometre race.

The closed road route threads through some of the capital’s most recognisable landmarks, including Trafalgar Square, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Houses of Parliament, transforming London into a winter playground with theatrical surprises at every turn.

A run that feels like a festival

The Winter Run has always been about more than distance. Along the route, runners will encounter the event’s signature moments, from the Snow Blast Off to high fives from huskies, dancing penguins and the ever popular polar bears welcoming participants at the finish line. This year’s finisher medal takes inspiration from the National Gallery, adding a cultural flourish to the achievement.

Live music, DJs and winter themed entertainment will animate the course, while dedicated fan zones invite spectators to join the celebration rather than simply watch from the sidelines. It is a rare race where atmosphere rivals endurance, and where runners of all abilities feel part of something shared.

Eddie the Eagle brings Olympic spirit

Adding a dose of sporting nostalgia and infectious positivity, Olympic legend Eddie the Eagle will play a central role throughout the day. Serving as official Race Caller, Edwards will be stationed at the start line to send off each wave of runners, offering encouragement and a hero’s welcome to the record breaking crowd.

Beyond the start, he will be moving through fan zones, taking on challengers in friendly curling matches and sharing his trademark trier spirit with participants and supporters alike. It is a fitting presence for an event that celebrates effort, determination and community over elite competition.

From start line to après party

Once the final waves are underway, the celebrations continue with the Winter Run’s much loved Après Party. This year’s post race entertainment will be headlined by Oasiz, bringing a feel good soundtrack to tired legs and well earned celebrations.

For many, it is this blend of challenge and celebration that defines the Winter Run. A serious run, delivered with humour and heart.

Running to change lives

At its core, the event remains firmly focused on its mission to support Cancer Research UK. Every kilometre covered and every pound raised by the twenty six thousand strong field contributes to vital research into cancer prevention, detection and treatment.

The impact is collective. Families across the UK benefit from the progress driven by events like this, where individual effort becomes shared momentum for change.

A capital moment

With entries now fully sold out, the twenty twenty six Winter Run is set to be one of the most vibrant days on London’s sporting calendar. It is a reminder that running does not have to be solitary or solemn. It can be playful, communal and deeply purposeful.

As runners flood the streets and spectators line the route, London will once again come together to freeze cancer in its tracks, one joyful, determined step at a time.