Great Manchester Run 2026

The Great Manchester Run sees tens of thousands of runners pass through Manchester, Trafford, and Salford each mid-May. Its programme includes a city-centre 10k, which has been part of the race since its inception, and a half marathon added later. The 10k is Europe's largest race of its distance. It is part of the UK’s Great Run series and, among British mass-participation running events, ranks behind only the Great North Run and the London Marathon. Both races begin on Portland Street and conclude on Deansgate, grounding the day in central Manchester despite routes extending well beyond. The 10k route travels southwest down Chester Road, passing Old Trafford, looping around Trafford Park, going by the Coronation Street set and Imperial War Museum North, before returning toward the Beetham Tower. The half marathon follows the 10k route but incorporates a seven-mile section via the Mancunian Way, Old Ashton Road, and the Etihad Stadium. Participants include club runners, charity runners, first-timers, wheelchair racers, celebrities, and world-class athletes. Past events have featured UK all-comers record performances, Olympic and boxing personalities, and Coronation Street cast members. Music, entertainment, personalised race numbers, tracking via the Great Run app, and training support contribute to the atmosphere of a major city running event.