Team War Child runner Libby celebrates whilst running the Royal Parks Half
Fundraise for us

Royal Parks Half Marathon FAQs

Frequently asked questions about taking part in the Royal Parks Half Marathon for War Child.

When is the 2026 Royal Parks Half Marathon?

The 2026 Royal Parks Half Marathon will take place on Sunday 11 October 2026, starting and finishing in Hyde Park, London.

You’ll experience a stunning 13.1-mile route through four of London’s Royal Parks: Hyde Park, The Green Park, St James’s Park, and Kensington Gardens, and past iconic landmarks including Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square, and the Royal Albert Hall.

 

When is the deadline for the 2026 Royal Parks Half Marathon registration?

The deadline for registration is on 31st August 2026.

 

What is the age limit?

You must be at least 17 years old on Sunday 11 October 2026 (race day) to take part.

 

What's the War Child fundraising requirement for the 2026 Royal Parks Half Marathon?

Registration is £25 and all runners are required to raise of minimum of £350.

 

What happens after I sign up?

Your application will be reviewed, and if successful, you’ll receive an email. You’ll then need to pay the registration fee and set up your fundraising page. We’ll stay in touch with fundraising and training tips, along with information about our work. You’ll also receive a War Child running vest or T-shirt.

 

I’m not sure I’ll be able to reach my £350 fundraising target – what should I do?

It’s completely normal to feel unsure about reaching a fundraising target, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. To keep the momentum going, we’d suggest a few simple boosts:

  • Share a short, personal message about why the cause matters to you
  • Add a photo or quick update to keep your page feeling active
  • Send a gentle follow-up - most donations come after the second or third reminder‑reminder
  • Remember: if 35 people give £10, you’ve already hit £350. Even £3–£5 gifts add up quickly
  • Share your page in community groups, at work, or with extended family
  • Post updates at milestones (25%, 50%, 75%) to show progress and inspire others to join in

You can absolutely reach your £350 goal. We are here to help brainstorm creative ideas!

 

What happens if my charity vest doesn’t fit?

One of the most important things is to ensure your running vest/t-shirts is comfortable!

If you find your vest doesn’t fit, just drop us an email at fundraising@warchild.org.uk and we can organise getting a new one to you.

 

Can I meet other runners?

We will be organising a WhatsApp group for our runners that you will be welcome to join, once your place has been confirmed.

 

Does my money from JustGiving go to War Child automatically?

JustGiving sends your donations straight to War Child and automatically reclaims Gift Aid if you're a UK taxpayer, so your donation is worth even more.

 

Can I change my start time or run the Royal Parks Half Marathon with friends?

For race day changes or questions about the race itself, please visit the Royal Parks Half Marathon website here.

 

Will you be there on the day to cheer me on? 

We absolutely will be! We will have a cheer squad there on the day plus a post-race reception to celebrate our runners and their incredible efforts (more information to follow nearer the time).