Great North Run

The Great North Run was founded in 1981, during the golden age of mass-participation running. Now 45 years old, it has established itself as a beloved fixture in Newcastle upon Tyne, growing from its early editions into a race with genuine character and loyal following.

Jacob Kiplimo set the blistering course record of 0:58:14 in 2023, proving this course can produce world-class half marathon times. The flat roads of Newcastle upon Tyne have become a proving ground for the fastest runners on the planet.

The Great North Run route is one of those courses where runners forget their pace and reach for their phones. The scenery through Newcastle upon Tyne and its surroundings has earned this race a reputation as one of the most photogenic in Europe.

With over 57,000 finishers, race day transforms Newcastle upon Tyne into a celebration of human endurance. The streets fill with runners, spectators, and the electric hum of a city united by the simple act of putting one foot in front of the other. It's less a sporting event than a civic holiday.

For thousands of runners each year, the Great North Run is their first half marathon. The combination of a forgiving course, generous time limits, and supportive crowds has earned this race a reputation as the place where marathon journeys begin. The first-timer energy on race morning is palpable.