Ireland is a fantastic place to run a half marathon. You can race past deer in Dublin's Phoenix Park, soak up the cheers of a packed city street in Cork, or run along the wild Atlantic coast on the Dingle Peninsula. And of course, there's always a warm welcome and a well-earned pint at the finish. Here are the top 10 half marathons in Ireland, plus tips for planning your race trip.
Which Irish Half Marathon Is Right for You?
- Best for a fast time: Run Galway Bay or the Tullamore Half Marathon
- Best for big-city energy: Cork City Half Marathon or the Great Limerick Run
- Best for scenery: Dingle Half Marathon
- Best for a challenge: Connemarathon Half or the Wicklow Half Marathon
- Best for a party: Clonakilty Waterfront Half Marathon
Dates change every year, so check the official websites before you book.
The Top 10 Half Marathons in Ireland
1. Irish Life Dublin Half Marathon
When: September
Part of the Dublin Marathon Race Series, this race is held entirely inside Phoenix Park, one of the largest enclosed city parks in Europe. The rolling course follows the long, tree-lined Chesterfield Avenue, and you'll often spot the park's herd of wild fallow deer along the way. It's a popular tune-up for the Dublin Marathon in October. Take the Luas tram to Heuston rather than trying to park.
2. Cork City Half Marathon
When: Late May or early June (the June bank holiday weekend)
Held alongside the Cork City Marathon, this flat, fast race follows the River Lee and the shaded Marina before a thrilling finish on St. Patrick's Street, where crowds pack the sidewalks. Afterward, head to the English Market for a post-race feast in Ireland's food capital.
3. Great Limerick Run Half Marathon
When: Early May
Starting in Limerick's Georgian Quarter, this lively race heads through the suburbs before crossing the River Shannon, with views of King John's Castle, and finishing in the city center. Local support is famously passionate.
4. Run Galway Bay Half Marathon
When: October
Starting and finishing near the Claddagh, this flat course follows the Salthill Promenade along Galway Bay, with views across to the hills of the Burren. On a calm day, it's one of the fastest courses in Ireland. On a windy day, the Atlantic will make it a real test.
5. Waterford Viking Half Marathon
When: June
Run through more than 1,000 years of history in Ireland's oldest city. The route starts in the Viking Triangle, passes through the gardens of Mount Congreve, and follows the Waterford Greenway along the River Suir. The Viking-themed medal is one of the most popular in Ireland.
6. Wicklow Half Marathon
When: March
Less than an hour from Dublin, this hilly race starts on the quays of Wicklow Town and heads along the coast and through the countryside of the "Garden of Ireland." The finish is unique: you run through the gates of Wicklow's historic 18th-century gaol.
7. Dingle Half Marathon
When: September
Often called the most beautiful race in Ireland, this point-to-point course follows the Slea Head Drive on the Wild Atlantic Way, with views of the Blasket Islands, ancient beehive huts, and dramatic cliffs. Buses take runners back to Dingle Town for the celebrations.
8. Kerryhead Half Marathon ("Half on the Head")
When: June
Starting in the seaside village of Ballyheigue, in North Kerry, this community-run race loops around the Kerry Head peninsula on narrow country lanes, with Atlantic views and a long, gradual climb in the first half.
9. Connemarathon Half Marathon
When: April
In the wild, empty valleys of Connemara, in County Galway, this point-to-point race starts in the fjord-side village of Leenane and finishes at Maam Cross, passing lakes, bogs, and mountains on quiet roads. The scenery is spectacular, but the hills and the wind make it one of the tougher half marathons in Ireland.
10. Tullamore Half Marathon
When: Late August
In County Offaly, in the heart of Ireland, this race runs on flat country roads and finishes with a lap of the Tullamore Harriers Stadium track, making it a favorite with runners chasing a personal best.
Honorable Mention: Clonakilty Waterfront Half Marathon
When: Late November or early December
This West Cork race combines coastal views with a famously lively post-race atmosphere in the town of Clonakilty. It's a fun way to finish the running year.
Tips for Running a Half Marathon in Ireland
- Pack for all weather: Bring a rain jacket and layers, even in summer.
- Check race-pack collection: Some races have no race-day pickup, so plan to collect your number in advance.
- Book accommodation early: Small towns like Dingle and Clonakilty have limited rooms.
- Rent a car for rural races: Public transport to the west coast can be limited.
- Enjoy the after-party: Irish races are famous for their post-race hospitality and live music.
See also the best UK half marathons and the best half marathons in Europe.
Stay Connected on Your Irish Runcation
An egoViet Ireland eSIM gives you data for directions, race updates, and sharing your medal photos. Visiting Northern Ireland or Britain too? A Europe eSIM covers both Ireland and the UK. Signal can be weak on remote stretches of the Wild Atlantic Way, so download offline maps.
FAQs: Half Marathons in Ireland
What is the best half marathon in Ireland?
The Dublin Half Marathon in Phoenix Park, the Cork City Half Marathon, and the Dingle Half Marathon are among the most popular.
What is the flattest half marathon in Ireland?
Run Galway Bay and the Tullamore Half Marathon are among the flattest and fastest.
What is the most beautiful half marathon in Ireland?
The Dingle Half Marathon, along the Slea Head Drive on the Wild Atlantic Way, is often called the most beautiful.
When is the Dublin Half Marathon?
It's usually held in September, as part of the Dublin Marathon Race Series.