Running through London’s Royal Parks for a cause that changes lives

This October, eight determined runners will lace up their trainers and take on one of the UK’s most iconic races, not simply to cross a finish line, but to help change lives. On Sunday 11 October 2026, the team will tackle the 13.1-mile Royal Parks Half Marathon through the heart of London, raising vital funds and awareness for The Fine & Country Foundation’s ongoing work supporting people experiencing homelessness and communities facing hardship.

The Royal Parks Half Marathon offers an unforgettable route through four of London’s Royal Parks, namely Hyde Park, The Green Pack, St James’s Park and Kensington Gardens. The scenic route also takes runners on a tour past many of London’s iconic landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, The Mall, Royal Albert Hall, Big Ben and Kensington Palace.

Running for The Fine & Country Foundation this year are Emilie Despois, Chief Marketing Officer at Fine & Country; Edward Taylor of Fine & Country Marlborough and Devizes; Jemma Friday of Fine & Country Cardiff; Tom Carter of Fine & Country North Wales; alongside William Grain, Baz Stevens, Jack Houghton and Lee Townson, friends and supporters of The Foundation.

Together, they share one goal: to raise as much money as possible for The Foundation and the life-changing projects it supports.

Since its launch in 2014, The Fine & Country Foundation has become the charitable heart of the Fine & Country network. Remaining true to its original mission of combating homelessness, it has also expanded its support to communities facing crisis across the UK and internationally. Thanks to the incredible commitment and generosity of the Fine & Country network, The Foundation has now raised and donated more than £1 million to charities making a tangible difference on the ground.

While training for and completing a half marathon is undoubtedly a significant physical challenge, the team is mindful that it pales in comparison to the daily realities faced by many of the people The Foundation exists to support. Every mile they run is a reminder that together, through fundraising and collective action, meaningful change is possible.

The money raised through events such as the Royal Parks Half Marathon directly supports The Foundation’s biannual grant programmes, held each spring and autumn. Through nominations from the Fine &Country network, local charities and community organisations can apply for grants of up to £3,000. These grants often provide vital funding that enables organisations to continue delivering essential services, supporting vulnerable people, protecting those in crisis and strengthening communities where help is needed most.

Every donation, no matter the size, contributes towards creating brighter futures for individuals and families facing incredibly difficult circumstances. By supporting the team, donors are doing far more than helping a group of runners complete 13.1 miles, they are investing in projects that deliver lasting, positive impact within communities across the UK and beyond.

If you would like to support a team member’s fundraising efforts, simply visit their JustGiving page and make a donation. Your generosity will help ensure that The Fine & Country Foundation can continue funding life-changing projects and making a meaningful difference for many years to come.