Manchester Marathon 2026

The Manchester Marathon is one of the UK's biggest and flattest marathons, drawing tens of thousands of runners and even more spectators across a route that loops out from Old Trafford through Sale, Altrincham, Brooklands, and back through Chorlton. It's the city's biggest single-day event of the spring, and even if you're not running, it's worth going to watch.

What to expect

One of the flattest and fastest marathons in the UK, which is why it consistently attracts a strong elite field as well as tens of thousands of recreational runners. The atmosphere is festive from start to finish: live bands at multiple points along the route, thousands of spectators (the Chorlton Run-In around mile 20 is famous for being the loudest spectator point), and a finish line at Old Trafford that delivers proper goosebumps. If you're running, expect one of the most supportive crowds in UK road running.

Practical info

• Start area opens at Old Trafford from 6:30am

• Bag drop closes at 8:00am sharp

• Wheelchair athletes start before the main field

• Finish time cut-off is six hours

• Dogs not permitted on the course or finish area

• Spectator pens clearly marked along the route

• Toilets at all major spectator points; medical tents every 5km

How to get there

Old Trafford has its own Metrolink stop on the Altrincham line, around 12 minutes from St Peter's Square. Trams run more frequently on race day. Driving and parking are difficult due to road closures. Best spectator routes: take the Metrolink to Sale (mile 13), Chorlton (mile 20), or Old Trafford (the finish).

Context

The Manchester Marathon dates from 1908 but was revived in its modern form in 2012 and has grown rapidly to become one of the biggest in Europe. The course record is held by men's elite athletes around 2:08.

What's nearby

Plenty of pubs in the Old Trafford and Chorlton areas for post-race recovery, including The Sedge Lynn in Chorlton and the various pubs around Sir Matt Busby Way. The cricket ground next door at Lancashire Cricket has its own bars open on race day.