The Manchester Marathon, the UK’s second largest marathon and one of Europe’s largest, is an iconic event drawing participants from all over the world to the vibrant streets of Greater Manchester. Running since 1908, the event has developed over the years, and the 2024 Manchester Marathon is set to be its biggest yet.
All are welcome to take on the 26.2 mile challenge, from some superb elite runners, to those who thought completing a marathon would never be possible, and many regular runners find this the ideal event to get a personal best time, whilst everybody finds the incredible Mancunian support throughout the course unforgettable.
New mascots, event shirts and the 2024 finisher’s medals picked by the public will be on show on the day, too, giving runners and supporters alike plenty to look at and get involved in.
The Manchester Marathon, of course, comes with a whole load of excitement (and inevitably disruption), so whether you’re a runner or enthusiastic supporter, here’s everything you need to know ahead of the 2024 Manchester Marathon on Sunday 14 April.
Manchester Marathon route, waves and timings
The start and finish area, as in previous years, will be at Lancashire County Cricket Club in Old Trafford, with the route extending south into Chorlton, Sale and Altrincham, heading through Stretford, past Salford Quays and this year, once again, the marathon route will cruise into the vibrant city centre. The marathon ends close to the start line in the Old Trafford area, where runners can collect their well-deserved medals.
There will be eight water stations conveniently located along the course to keep runners refreshed. SiS GO Isotonic Energy Gels will only be available at Drink Stations 3, 5 and 7, so runners are advised to plan ahead and remember to bring additional hydration and nutrition based on their individual needs.
Whilst the route is generally flat, enabling many people to achieve PBs, it is important to note that the road surface on any road, by its very nature, is not completely even. Runners are advised to look out for:
- Potholes
- Uneven surfaces
- Speed bumps
- Traffic islands and other structures
- Cycle lane bollards
Due to the Greater Manchester walking and cycling network initiative, there are more and more cycle lane bollards and raised curbs along the main roadway network, therefore runners are asked to keep an eye out for these when running on the roads as they could be a tripping hazard.
Runners should already know their wave, but do check before you get to the start line. You can access the full participant guide here. Wave timings are below:
The Finish Line will close six hours after the last runner has crossed the start line (this equates to a pace of approximately just over a 13 minute mile). The roads along the course are re-opened in staggered zones to facilitate roads reopening, so you will need to achieve the minimum pace throughout.
The best places to support as a spectator at the Manchester Marathon
The Manchester Marathon wouldn’t be the same without its amazing supporters, and as such the team has narrowed down the top places to spectate at the event. These spots are also great places to meet participants after the event − it is recommended that spectators avoid going to the finish line, which will be very busy on the day.
City centre
The city centre is a fantastic place to soak up the atmosphere of the event, with many great food and drink spots close at hand. Head to Deansgate to catch runners at the turnaround point near mile five of the event, where the party will be in full swing. There will also be the Buzzin’ Fly-by screen and feel-good music near the turn around point between miles four and five.
Stretford
Around Stretford Mall spectators can see runners passing on their way out between miles nine and 10 and on their way back in towards the finish as they pass mile 23. Stretford Public Hall across from the Mall will have DJs and a cheer team, and over at the Mall, the British Heart Foundation and the Cheerleader Society will be whipping up the crowds to cheer runners home.
Sale
Runners pass through Sale on the A56 heading out at 11 miles, and come back over the Bridgewater Canal and past the Town Hall after 21 miles – when fatigue is likely to have set in. There are lots of places to eat and drink around the Waterside and on Northenden Road, making Sale a great base to watch runners head out and back with a spot of brunch in between.
Altrincham
Altrincham is the southernmost point on the course where the runners turn between 16 and 17 miles. Take the tram, which will drop you right in the middle of the loop where you can enjoy the entertainment featuring choirs, DJs and bands.
Chorlton-cum-Hardy
The atmosphere in Chorlton will be truly electric on event day, as participants push into the final effort of the challenge between miles 24 and 25. Wilbraham Road and Manchester Road are full of great places to grab a bite to eat, and the nearby Chorlton tram stop makes it easy to get to.
Road closures during the Manchester Marathon
There will be a significant number of road closures in Manchester and Trafford, resulting in extensive bus diversions. Road closures will be in effect along and immediately around the Manchester Marathon route, and those roads in the surrounding area that are open will be very busy so anyone attending the marathon is advised to plan extra time for any journeys they need to take.
The road closures for this year’s marathon include the A56 (Northbound and Southbound), with the officials set to start closing roads at 3am and begin re-opening roads from 2pm onwards after the course begins to clear. The last closed road is expected to re-open around 8pm through Chorlton and Old Trafford towards the end of the course.
A map of road closures during the Manchester Marathon can be found below:
Public transport and travel advice
Due to extensive road closures on the day, tram will be the best choice for travel to and from the Manchester Marathon. There are many stops located close to spectating points along the race route – shown on the map below:
You can also follow the Metrolink and Bee Network social media accounts for the most up-to date information regarding public transport: @MCRMetrolink @BeeNetwork
Are there any discounts or freebies for Manchester Marathon runners?
As it goes, yes there are! To reward runners for their incredible efforts, many Manchester establishments are giving out their products for free. Here are a few places where you can get marathon freebies:
Bill’s Spinningfields & Trafford Centre
On Sunday 14 and Monday 15 April, Manchester Marathon Runners and Volunteers will be able to enjoy a free burger and drink in the form of Aperol Spritz, Lucky Saint, or Peroni on the day to celebrate their achievements all on Bill’s.
All runners need to do is show their medal to the server, and volunteers should show proof of volunteering on the day or on Monday 15 to receive their well-deserved treat! Booking is recommended, but walk-ins welcome − to book a table, visit the website.
The Real Greek Corn Exchange
Present your official 2024 Manchester Marathon finisher’s medal and enjoy a FREE Greek Skewer Plate or Vegan Greek Plate at The Real Greek restaurant, valid from Sunday 14 April to Wednesday 17 April.
Choose from Chicken Skewer, Halloumi & Vegetable Skewer, Pork Skewer, Loukaniko Beef & Pork Sausage Skewer, Falafel or Lamb Meatballs, served with Mediterranean Rice, Greek Salad, Tzatziki, and warm Greek Flatbread. Alternatively, enjoy the Vegan Greek Plate, which includes a selection of the restaurant’s best vegan recipes such as Melitzanosalata, Houmous, Fava, and more − you can book a table here.
Liquor & Burn
All of you disciplined runners and your lovely supporters will be rewarded with 20% off food − no need to book in, just rock up!
The Shack NQ
Your whole party gets 20% off, plus a glass of prosecco with your medal to celebrate! Available across the entire Brunch and Main Menu whether you want to stick to the greens with the Avocado Super Brunch, or reward your hard work with incredible stacked burgers and loaded fries.
If all you can think about is recovering and relaxing your body, say hello to the Urban Ice Tribe and MyProtein ice bath! Dive into the revitalising world of cold-water therapy in the MyProtein Recovery Village, with a complimentary ice bath session − ideal post-race recovery. The expert team will be there to guide you though a breathwork session before your dip, ensuring you reap the full benefits − book your free spot here.
So, if you’re running − best of luck! If not, have a wonderful day in the glorious Manchester surroundings and race day atmosphere, and have a drink for us.
Find out more details on the official Manchester Marathon website.