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 2025 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.
Instagram post via @manchestermarathon
New mascots, event shirts and the 2025 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 2025 Manchester Marathon on Sunday 27 April.
Manchester Marathon route, waves and timings
New for this year, the start and finish areas will be different, with the start in Old Trafford under the White City Arch, and the finish line being at the University of Manchester on Oxford road. The route will extend north into the city centre, cruising along Deansgate, and back down through Stretford and Sale to Altrincham. Then runners will go back north through Sale Moor, Chorlton, Whalley Range and Hulme, making the final stretch onto Oxford Road, where runners can collect their well-deserved medals.
There will be eight water stations conveniently located along the course to keep runners refreshed. High 5 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.
Deansgate Interchange
Located at the very north end of the route; participants will pass this dedicated cheer zone very early on at the one mile point. Deansgate Interchange is expected to be a hub of activity with a dedicated zone close to the city allowing many spectators easy access.
Hulme
Located at the northern end of the route, with quick access to the city centre and finish line you can catch your participant twice here. With viewing for those around two miles in and then again at around 24 miles. Hulme also offers some choice in terms of refreshments with the quaint Café Sorrel and the more lively Kim’s Kitchen and Bar.
Stretford
South west of the start line, Stretford has a fast-growing reputation as a foodie hub. Spectators can see runners between mile five and six here and also just before mile 21. Stretford Canteen has been shortlisted for the Manchester Food and Drinks Festival Award Shortlist recently, and it’s also great for a post-lunch stroll along the Bridgewater Canal.
Sale
Sale is a friendly community full of lively local support. Participants pass through Cross Street just before mile eight and Broad Road in Sale between mile 18 and 19 of the course – when fatigue is likely to have set in. Sale strikes a charming balance of both city and countryside, situated slightly further out from the bustle of the centre.
Altrincham
Altrincham is the southernmost point on the course where the runners turn between 12 and 13 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 22 and 23. Wilbraham Road, Manchester Road and Beech Road are full of great places to grab a bite to eat, and the nearby Chorlton tram stop makes it easy to get to.
There will also be bikes free to hire from Brompton for loved ones of runners on the day, meaning you can catch all the action as it happens. All supporters need to do is email brompton@wearetheromans.com with the bib number of their loved one to receive a code that will provide complimentary Brompton bike hire for the full marathon day, with a full list of Brompton hire stations in Manchester listed here.
Road closures during the Manchester Marathon
Instagram post via @manchestermarathon
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, particularly those in the official fan zone area. Here are a few places where you can get marathon freebies:
- A free post-run meal for all medal holders at KOTO North Bar
- Discounted brunch at at Federal cafe when you show your medal to the team
- 20% discount off the entire Bird of Prey menu
- Marathon medal holders can enjoy a cheeseburger from Doug’s Hamburgers for £1.99
- A free regular hot drink with any bagel purchased from Bagel Factory
- Free ice cream or a cold beer or soft drink for marathon finishers from Hello Oriental
- Discounted treatment vouchers for winners of games or activities from Forever 22
- Free prosecco and late check-out at Hyatt Hotels Manchester
- Chances to win free Hip Pop soda – all first-time runners need to do is snap a picture of themselves at the event, tag and follow @drink.hip.pop on Instagram or TikTok (drink_hip_pop) and let them know their time!
- Free Gaucho steak – from race day until the 1st of May, runners can visit Gaucho Manchester, show their medal, and enjoy a complimentary steak, grilled to perfection and dripping in chimichurri sauce.
- Free burger and drink from Bill’s for Manchester Marathon runners and volunteers.
- Free Franco Manca pizza for Manchester runners – any pizza, including specials.
- Free Greek Skewer Plate or Vegan Greek Plate at The Real Greek for Manchester Marathon runners.
Are there any pre or post marathon events happening this weekend?
Of course there are! Manchester is known for its friendliness and support, so naturally plenty of establishments are putting on events in the lead up and after the Manchester Marathon, for both runners and supporters.
New Century X Snappy Runners
Snappy Runners are kicking off the weekend with a super chill 5k – easy pace, good vibes, and post-run coffee and pastries with like-minded people.
There will also be 100 Snappy Runners X Saucony tees to give away, plus the crew from OTE Sports Nutrition will be there with free goodies and some race-day essentials if you’re doing a last-minute stock-up.
🕐 Meet at 9.30am.
📍New Century, 34 Hanover St, Manchester M4 4AH.
Onda Carb Loading at Impossible
Fill up on that carby, carby pasta before pushing your body to the absolute limit… the iconic Onda is taking up a very short residency at Impossible. On Saturday 26th April only, get yourself down for a carb extravaganza and prepare yourself for the challenge ahead!
🕐 From 4pm.
📍 Impossible, 36 Peter St, Manchester M2 5QR.
Circle Square official fan zone
Taking place on Sunday 27th April, the Manchester Marathon fan zone at Circle Square will be a space for runners, spectators and the whole of the city to come together, enjoy the race-day buzz and cheer on thousands of participants. The race will be broadcast live throughout the day on an outdoor big screen providing the perfect place to soak up the marathon day excitement and track the progress of the race.
🕐 10am-5pm.
📍 Circle Square, Oxford Rd, Manchester M1 7FS.
The Font Bar Chorlton X Snappy Runners
Snappy Runners are also turning Mile 23 into a full-on party on marathon day. Music, energy, and all the noise to help the runners power through to the finish. Grab a drink, bring the hype, and make it loud.
🕐 Starts when the race does.
📍The Font Bar, 115-117 Manchester Rd, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Manchester M21 9PG.
Find out more details on the official Manchester Marathon website.