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Looking ahead: Britain’s sporting highlights in 2025

As the sporting calendar heats up in 2025, Britain is set to be a playground for sports enthusiasts, with a thrilling lineup of events that promise nail-biting suspense and top entertainment. From the high-energy action of the Women’s Rugby World Cup to the elegance of Royal Ascot and the adrenaline of the British Grand Prix, there is something for everyone. Fans will have the chance to cheer on world-class athletes and teams while exploring some of Britain’s most vibrant cities and scenic countryside.

VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Spectators watching a motor race of vintage sports cars

Whether it is the thrill of the Boat Race on the River Thames, another season of the Premier League or the historic atmosphere of Wimbledon, prepare for a year filled with unforgettable sporting experiences! 

Six Nations Rugby Championship, London, Cardiff and Edinburgh 

31 January – 15 March 2025 

The 2025 Six Nations Rugby Championship is set to be another enthralling in one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious rugby tournaments. Taking place across six European nations – England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, and Wales – the competition runs from 31 January to 15 March, attracting fans from around the globe. In Britain, matches will take place at three iconic venues, with Scotland hosting the first match on British soil at Murrayfield in Edinburgh on 1 February. England play their first home match at the Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, in London a week later, before Wales kick-off at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium on 22 February. 

UK Athletics Indoor Championships, Birmingham, England 

22-23 February 2025 

The UK Athletics Indoor Championships, set to take place in Birmingham on 22 and 23 February 2025, will see Britain’s top athletes compete for national titles at the Utilita Arena. With events ranging from sprints to long-distance jumps and throws, the weekend promises thrilling performances as athletes aim to secure spots for international competitions, including the European Indoor Championships.  

The Grand National, Liverpool, England 

3-5 April 2025 

Held annually at Aintree Racecourse near Liverpool, the Grand National is one of the most famous horse racing events in the world. The three-day festival culminates in the iconic steeplechase featuring 30 jumps over two laps. Beyond the races, visitors can enjoy a lively atmosphere with live music, entertainment and top hospitality. A highlight of the event is Ladies Day on 4 April, where much of the attention focuses on the style and elegance of the attendees, with many dressing in bold and glamorous outfits.  

Boat Race, London, England 

13 April 2025 

Visitors can witness one of the world’s oldest amateur sporting events, held annually on the River Thames between crews from the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. This 4.2-mile rowing race, which will take place on 13 April in 2025, attracts thousands of spectators who line the riverbanks between Putney in West London and Mortlake to watch the competing teams. With viewing spots at parks and pubs along the route, the event offers visitors the chance to soak up the vibrant atmosphere of a quintessentially British sporting event. 

London Marathon, England 

27 April 2025 

The London Marathon is one of the most iconic running events in the world happening on the streets of the capital each spring. This 26.2-mile race takes participants on a scenic journey past some of London’s most famous landmarks, including the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and Big Ben. Join thousands of spectators lining the route to cheer on the runners. With a festive atmosphere, live music, and entertainment, the London Marathon promises an unforgettable sporting highlight. 

Royal Ascot, Berkshire, England 
17 – 21 June 2025 

Royal Ascot is one of the most anticipated events in the British social calendar, blending top-class horse racing with a showcase of tradition and elegance. Held over five days at the Ascot Racecourse, this iconic event sees some of the finest racehorses competing in thrilling races, culminating in the renowned Gold Cup. Visitors can experience the glamour of Ladies Day, renowned for its spectacular hats and fashion statements, with a strict dress code. 

The Championships, Wimbledon, England 

30 June 2025 – 13 July 2025 

The Championships remains the crown jewel of the tennis calendar, held annually at the All England Lawn Tennis Club in Wimbledon, London. Steeped in tradition, Wimbledon is famed for its grass courts, white dress code, and the ritual of strawberries and cream. Taking place each summer, the event draws global fans to witness two weeks of nail-biting action.  

British Grand Prix, Northamptonshire, England 

3-6 July 2025 

Get swept away by the roar of the engines and the cheers of the crowd at The British Grand Prix, the highlight of the Formula 1 calendar held annually at the Silverstone Circuit in Northamptonshire. This thrilling event attracts motorsport fans from around the world, as the fastest cars and most talented drivers compete on one of the most iconic tracks. The event offers an electrifying atmosphere, complete with entertainment, fan zones, and the opportunity to experience the latest F1 technology. 

London Athletics Meet, London 

19 July 

The London Athletics Meet, a highlight of the 2025 athletics season, is set to take place at the London Stadium on 19 July. This prestigious event will feature world-class athletes competing in a full programme of track and field events, attracting global stars just weeks ahead of major international championships. 

Women’s Rugby World Cup, various locations, England 

22 August – 27 September 2025 

In August and September 2025, England will host the Women’s Rugby World Cup. With games spread across the country, visitors can explore England while cheering on the world’s best teams. Whether visitors are catching a game by the seaside in Brighton and Hove or soaking up the culture in Bristol, or heading to Exeter and Northampton, there is plenty to discover beyond the pitch. London will also host blockbuster matches, as will Manchester, Sunderland, and York, promising a summer of sport and adventure. Booking tickets and accommodation in advance is highly recommended, as these cities will be busy with fans throughout the tournament.  

Premier League, various locations, England 

From 16 August 2025 

The Premier League season 2025/26 kicks off in August, offering the chance to experience the excitement of English football at some of the world’s most iconic stadiums, including Old Trafford, Anfield, and Stamford Bridge. For those not visiting on match days, a variety of stadium tours and football experiences are also available, giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at the history, players and inner workings of their favorite clubs. Many tours include access to players’ tunnels, dressing rooms, and pitch-side views. 

Goodwood Festival of Speed, West Sussex, England 

10-13 July 2025 

Taking place at the historic Goodwood Estate in West Sussex, this annual motor sporting festival features historic and modern motor racing vehicles taking part in thrilling hill climbs, with additional air displays, live demonstrations and an incredible display of classic cars. Known for attracting top drivers and iconic vehicles from Formula 1 to rally racing, the event offers a unique blend of speed and heritage with a lively festival atmosphere. 

The Hundred, various locations, England 

2025 dates tbc 

The Hundred cricket tournament will return to stadiums across England and Wales in the summer. Launched by the England and Wales Cricket Board, the tournament sees eight city-based teams compete in 100-ball matches. Featuring world-class men’s and women’s players, The Hundred is designed to appeal to both die-hard fans and newcomers to the sport, with lively atmospheres, music, and family-friendly entertainment. Matches will take place across various cities and cricket grounds, from Lord’s in London to Edgbaston in Birmingham. 

Henley Royal Regatta, Henley-on-Thames, England 

1-6 July 2025 

The Henley Royal Regatta is a quintessentially British sporting event held annually along the picturesque banks of the River Thames in Henley-on-Thames. Established in 1839, this prestigious rowing competition attracts teams from around the world, competing in a series of compelling races over the iconic 1,640-meter course. The regatta is renowned for its elegant social scene, with spectators enjoying picnics along the riverside. Visitors can indulge in fine dining and live music as the boats glide past. 

Great North Run, Newcastle, England 

7 September 2025 

Taking place on 7 September in Newcastle, the Great North Run is the world’s largest half marathon, drawing more than 60,000 runners from across the globe. The 13.1-mile route starts in the heart of Newcastle and finishes along the coastline in South Shields, offering spectators and participants stunning views.  

Notes for editors:

Dates are correct at the time of publication; however, dates are subject to change after the time of posting. 
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For further information contact the Visit Britain press team at [email protected]

Key destinations:

The city of Newcastle stands on the north bank of the River Tyne, connected to the neighbouring town of Gateshead by seven bridges.

VisitBritain/NGI/Michael Baister

Couple kayaking on a river under blue skies

Liverpool is a UNESCO City of Music with more museums and galleries than any city outside of London.

Oh Me Oh My

Rooftop of Oh me oh my restaurant in Liverpool

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West Midlands Growth Company

Historical building, with a clock tower, beside a fountain