Great North Run
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Event overview
The AJ Bell Great North Run takes place on 13 September 2026 and is a half marathon of 13.1 miles. The event attracts about 60,000 participants each year and is open to runners aged 17 and over on the day of the event. Entry options include ballot places, charity places and Great North Run membership; the September ballot has been drawn, membership places for 2026-2027 are sold out, and a booking fee of £3.00 is applied at checkout. Existing Great North Run members do not need to enter the ballot.
Course and logistics
The race starts on the A167 near Claremont Road and finishes in South Shields after a final mile-long seafront stretch. The route includes both uphill and downhill sections: miles 1-2, 5-8 and 12-13.1 are mainly downhill, while miles 8-12 include notable uphill sections. Road closures will be in place on the route and surrounding areas. Race numbers with timing chips are posted 1-2 weeks before the event or can be collected from information points if they do not arrive. Baggage buses are provided in the Runners Hub for bag drop and collection. Every finisher receives a medal; event photography, a free event app for tracking, and 12 months of runner discounts are available. An optional finisher tee can be declined in exchange for a donation to the National Trust Woodlands Appeal. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.