The AJ Bell Great North Run is one of the UK's most iconic and beloved running events. Taking place every September, the world-famous half marathon brings over 60,000 runners to the streets of Newcastle, Gateshead and South Shields for another unforgettable day of running, fundraising and incredible North East spirit.
Whether you're an experienced runner chasing a personal best, or a beginner taking on your first half marathon, the Great North Run offers an opportunity to push yourself while soaking up one of the most famous race-day atmospheres.
Here at Start Fitness, we know just how special this event is, which is why we’re here to help you make the most of it. From training tips and race-day advice to what to expect along the route and how to choose the right running shoes to get you across that finish line, keep reading for everything you need to know about the Great North Run.
When is the Great North Run 2026?
The Great North Run will take place this year on Sunday, 13th September 2026. It covers a 13.1-mile route that takes runners from Newcastle city centre to South Shields, crossing the iconic Tyne Bridge and passing through Gateshead before heading towards the finish line at the coast. Expect plenty of music, entertainment, and thousands of supporters cheering you towards the finish line.
How do you enter the Great North Run?
If you’re interested in taking part in this incredible race, entry for this year’s race is currently closed but will reopen for the 2027 race in January. There are three ways you can enter to take part in the Great North Run:
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General ballot - Opens in January 2027
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Charity - Run for one of the official charity partners, usually by committing to a fundraising target
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Running clubs - Some places are available through affiliated clubs or specific programmes.
For future races, sign up to the ballot reminder so you can try to secure your place as soon as possible.
How many people run the Great North Run?
Around 60,000 runners take part in this race each year, with 63,000 expected at this year’s edition. This iconic race has welcomed millions of runners since it began in 1981, with this year marking an incredible 45 years of the famous event and the biggest Great North Run yet. Those taking part include everyone from professional athletes and celebrities to running enthusiasts, and beginners looking for a challenge.
Where does the Great North Run start and finish?
The Great North Run starts on the A167 near Claremont Road in Newcastle upon Tyne and follows a 13.1-mile route through Newcastle, Gateshead and South Tyneside before finishing on the coast road in South Shields, with the final mile along the seafront.
Although the route is predominantly road running, it's not completely flat, and there are several uphill and downhill sections, with miles 8-12 considered to be the toughest part of the course.
What is the Great North Run route like?
Having a clear vision of what the route is like will help you plan your training and pacing strategy efficiently, so when it comes to race day, you are more than prepared. Below we have broken down what you can expect at each mile of the race.
Miles 1-2: The start in Newcastle
The opening section of the race is mainly downhill, which can make it tempting to get carried away and run faster than planned. With tens of thousands of runners around you and an incredible atmosphere from the very beginning, it's easy to forget that you've still got more than 11 miles ahead. Try to settle into your planned pace and use these early miles to find your rhythm.
Miles 3-5: Into Gateshead
After crossing the Tyne Bridge, you'll head into Gateshead where this route will include the first incline. Don't worry about losing a few seconds on this uphill section; focus on maintaining a controlled effort rather than trying to force your usual pace. We recommend incorporating hill training into your preparation so you're comfortable with these changes in elevation.
Miles 5-8: Downhill towards Tyne Tunnel
Between these miles, the route becomes more downhill as you continue towards the Tyne Tunnel turn-off. This will be a welcome change after the earlier climb, but resist the temptation to suddenly accelerate. Saving some energy here could make a significant difference when you reach the more challenging section later in the race.
Miles 8-12: The toughest section along South Tyneside
For most runners, miles 8-12 are the hardest part of the Great North Run. This stretch includes considerably more uphill running, and you'll already have eight miles in your legs by this point. This is where your training really matters, so including hill sessions, longer runs and strength work in the weeks before the event can help prepare your legs.
Don’t get intimidated by this part of the race, as this is where thousands of supporters, entertainment and the famous North East atmosphere will give you that much-needed boost when the miles start to feel tough.
Miles 12-13.1: Final stretch downhill along the seafront
When you reach around mile 12, you'll get your first glimpse of the North Sea. The route then takes you downhill towards the coast before the final mile along the South Shields seafront.
This is the point you've been working towards, and if you've paced yourself well, you may have enough left in the tank to pick up your effort during the final stretch.
Alternatively, simply enjoy the atmosphere, take in the crowds, and soak up the feeling of knowing you've nearly completed the Great North Run.
What is the average time for the Great North Run?
The average Great North Run finish time is between 2 and 3 hours. This will vary considerably depending on experience, fitness, pacing, and conditions on race day. Recent race data puts the average finish time at around 2 hours 15 minutes.
Keep in mind that finishing comfortably and enjoying the experience is more important than chasing a particular time. More experienced runners may aim to complete the race in sub-2 hours, while first-timers may use a run-walk strategy, focusing solely on completing the course, no matter the time.
If you’re interested in finding out more about pacing, our running pace calculator can help you set the right targets for your next race.
How hard is the Great North Run for beginners?
If you're new to running, tackling 13.1 miles can feel like a big challenge, but don't let the distance put you off. With the right preparation, the Great North Run is an achievable and incredibly rewarding challenge for beginners. The route itself is a good mix of flat long stretches of road with a few steady inclines towards the end; however, the right training and support from the crowds will help carry you when things start to get tough.
How difficult you may find the race all depends on your current fitness, running experience, how consistently you've trained, and the goal you've set for yourself. You don't need to be a fast runner to take part, and there's no expectation that you need to complete the course at a particular pace or time. Many first-timers find this race achievable, even if you need to mix in walking or take a moment to catch your breath; it’s the taking part in this incredible race that counts.
For a first-time runner, we recommend sticking to a solid training plan in the months leading up to the race so you’re well prepared for what's ahead. Good training will not only help improve your performance, but it will help prevent injury and make the experience all the more enjoyable.
How long does it take to train for the Great North Run?
If you're new to running or haven't completed a half marathon before, we'd recommend allowing around 12-16 weeks to build up your fitness gradually. Begin with manageable distances and gradually increase the length of your runs as you progress. A mixture of easy running and walking is absolutely fine, particularly when you're starting.
Our 12-week Great North Run training plan is designed to help you build your endurance, introduce hill training, and prepare your body for the demands of 13.1miles. It includes easy runs, long runs, hill sessions, intervals, strength training, and recovery.
If you're completely new to distance running, our 12-week half marathon training plan for beginners is another useful place to start. Below are a few helpful tips to help you through the race if this is your first half marathon.
Don't worry about running every mile
One of the biggest misconceptions about taking on your first half marathon is that you have to run the entire distance without stopping - you don't.
A run-walk approach can be a great way for beginners to manage the distance, particularly if you're building your fitness from scratch. You might choose to run for a set amount of time before taking a short walking break, or simply walk when you need to. The important thing is to find an approach that works for you during training and stick with it on race day.
Start slower than you think
The atmosphere at the Great North Run start line is incredible, so it's easy to get carried away.
With thousands of runners around you, crowds lining the route and the opening section being predominantly downhill, you may feel tempted to run faster than you planned.
Try to resist starting too quickly, as it can leave you struggling later in the race, particularly when you reach the hills. Instead, aim for a comfortable, conversational pace that you know you can maintain.
Practise running uphill
Because of the course profile, hill training is particularly useful for Great North Run beginners.
You don't need to spend every training session running up steep hills, but incorporating some inclines into your regular routes can help you become more comfortable with incline running. Don't worry if your pace drops when you're running uphill, focus on maintaining a sustainable effort instead.
Don't underestimate recovery
It can be tempting to think that more training is always better, especially if you’re a first-timer; however, this isn’t the case. Your body needs time to adapt to the demands of running, especially as you increase your mileage. Prioritising rest days in your training schedule and taking things easier if you're feeling particularly tired can be just as advantageous to your training.
Active recovery such as walking, yoga and swimming can also be useful additions to your training plan, along with stretching as part of your post-run routine. Pay attention to persistent pain or discomfort. Normal muscle tiredness is one thing, but trying to train through an injury can make the problem worse.
Wear the right running kit
You don't need lots of expensive kit to complete the Great North Run, but comfortable clothes and shoes that have been well-tested throughout your training can make the experience much more enjoyable.
Your running shoes are particularly important, as you will need a pair that works with your running gait and properly supports you through long distances. Our blog on ‘How to pick the right running shoes for your feet’ can provide you with more information on choosing the perfect pair.
It’s important that you train in your race-day running shoes so that they are well worn in, and you can be safe in the knowledge that they will not cause you any pain or discomfort when you’re tackling the 13.1 miles.
Browse through our full range of running shoes, and explore our wider running range for clothing and accessories to support your training.
What do I need for the Great North Run?
Once you've sorted your clothing and shoes, there are a few other essentials worth gathering so you’re well-prepared for race day. Our marathon checklist blog details everything you need when packing for a running event, a few of which we have picked out below so you’re ready when you get to the start line.
Race number and timing chip
Your race number is essential for taking part, and they contain the timing chip that tracks your run from start to finish, so you can get an accurate measurement of your pace, and so family and friends can track you on the app throughout. This should arrive approximately four weeks before the event.
Running belt or vest
A running belt can provide a convenient way to carry your phone, keys, and nutrition without having to hold anything in your hands. If you plan to carry more things, a running vest may be better suited, but it’s important to train in this prior to race-day to make sure it’s comfortable.
Energy gels and snacks
Many people choose to take energy gels during the race as a quick and efficient fuelling strategy. We recommend using these throughout your training so you can get a good idea on if they work for you, as they may not agree with your stomach. Don't wait until race day to try new nutrition options, know what works well for you beforehand.
Water and hydration
Plan your hydration around your own needs and use the official water stations available on the course to stay hydrated throughout. If you prefer to carry your own drink, make sure you've trained with the bottle, belt or vest you'll use.
Get Great North Run ready with Start Fitness
Whether you're taking on the Great North Run for the first time or chasing a new PB, the right preparation can help you feel confident from your first training run through to the finish line.
Here at Start Fitness, we have everything you need to be well-prepared for race day. Explore our full running range to find everything you need to make the most of your experience, and stay tuned for our 2026 round-up blog for a rundown of the day.
If you're based in the North East, our flagship store in Newcastle city centre is also here to help you find the right kit and prepare you for the big day. Good luck to everyone taking on the Great North Run 2026. Enjoy every mile!
