Every autumn, Inverness fills up with thousands of runners ready to tackle one of Scotland’s big events.
They are in town for the Baxters Loch Ness Marathon and Festival of Running.
It has something for everyone – a full marathon, a 10k, a 5k and even a Wee Nessie race for the youngest participants.
But don’t despair if you prefer your exercise at a more civilised pace, or even just vicariously.
Because as you watch and wait for the finishers, there are food, drink, sideshows and shops for the spectators.
But can you get a massage? And where do you put the car while you have some fun?
Here are the answers to those and other burning questions to make your Loch Ness Marathon experience a good one.
Do I have to run 26.2 miles?
No, don’t worry. If you want to do the lot, feel free. But the small print on all the merch says “and Festival of Running” – the perfect get-out clause.
Anyone daunted by hours and hours of running can register for the 10km or 5km that happen on the same day. There is even a Wee Nessie race for the pre-schoolers.
And those of us who don’t fancy even those shorter races should see the section on the sideshows, stalls and food and drink options – just enjoy the atmosphere.
Do I have to PAY to run?
You’re new to this, aren’t you? Yes, you do.
A marathon place costs from £35 to £62, depending on what clubs you’re in and whether you run for charity. The 10km is from £26, the 5km is £12, and the Wee Nessie is £5.
A big attraction of Loch Ness is there is no ballot – with London and other high-profile races, you have to “win” a place.
A lot of people also run for charity – like many other big race events, Loch Ness has charity partners. Or you can pick your own.
Why is it on the same day as London?
It seems silly for a chippy young-ish marathon in the Highlands to take on one of the best-known events in the world.
But it’s a thorny issue and you really shouldn’t intrude on private grief.
Because the Loch Ness Marathon was there first. And also, it was Covid what done it.
Since its inception in 1981, the London Marathon has been traditionally been run in April.
But after the wipeout year that was 2020, and some doubts lingering into last year, it was moved.
To October 2.
The same day as Loch Ness.
The good news is, it looks likely the capital run will go back to its spring slot in 2023.
So October can go back to being all about Loch Ness.
Is there soup?
Yes, believe it or not. Every finisher is handed a cup of Baxters.
There are also other food trucks and stalls, for everything from cake and coffee to lunch.
In 2022, Baxters have some other big names along for the ride.
Bad Girl Bakery, Popseys Pancakes, Mieles ice cream, Edelwurst, Highland Hog Roast, Ddough Pizza (wood fired pizza), and Nae Bad Coffee will all be there.
And pop-up bars from Cromarty Brewing and Great Glen Gin will also put in appearances.
Where is it all happening?
The Event Village is at Inverness’s Bught Park.
That’s where you can register, get a massage before or after your run, get a bus to the start of the marathon…. pretty much the centre of the universe.
There will also be bungee trampolines, a bouncy castle, face painting and other kids’ activities.
Where can I park?
As with any event in a city, parking can be tricky, and organisers ask people to walk to the venue if possible.
There were almost 5,000 people in a past year, to give you an idea of the scale.
But were that isn’t doable, there are a few payable car parks nearby.
The Highland Council HQ car park (IV3 5NX) is a ten-minute walk from the marathon bus pick up point.
The council’s Torvean car park (IV3 8JL) is five minutes closer.
There is also a drop-off point at Bught Park, if you’re quick – no waiting allowed.
Accessible parking is also available at Bught Park.
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