Great North Run

Great North Run Ultimate Guide

Stay tuned for more information on the next AJ Bell Great North Run 2025!

Famous for its inclusive atmosphere, unbeatable on-route entertainment and warm Geordie welcome, not to mention the millions raised each year for worthy causes, Great North Run magic can be hard to understand – until you’ve experienced it for yourself on the Newcastle to South Shields route. It doesn’t matter whether you’re running to beat your personal best, to raise some cash for charity or simply for the pint at the end, you’re guaranteed a run like no other – and a finish line feeling you’ll never forget!

The Great North Run is more than just a one-day event - it's a packed weekend of celebration, personal achievement and fun for all ages!

During the Great North Run weekend, many events will take place such as: the Great North 5k and the Mini and Junior Great North Runs.

The UK’s biggest and best kids running event, the Junior Great North Run, gives everyone a chance to shine on Great North Run weekend. Minis aged 3-8 take on a 1.2km dash, while Juniors aged 9-16 tackle a 4km sprint.

The AJ Bell GreatNorth 5k is the curtain-raiser for the North East’s biggest weekend of sport Taking place on Friday 6th September, runners will make their way around the vibrant Quayside. Enjoy iconic Tyneside views before claiming a medal and t-shirt.

Have you ever wondered when the Great North Run started and how it was created? Would you like to find out about some funny, yet, inspiring stories to help motivate you during your training and preparation? We have put together a brief history of the iconic North East half marathon including interesting results and statistics.

The September Ballot for the 2025 AJ Bell Great North Run is now open!

Renowned for an incredible atmosphere, roaring crowd support and immense charity fundraising efforts, this is your chance to be on the start line in 2025.

Enter the September Ballot before Friday 13th September 2024 at 12pm, for your chance to be on that iconic start line. 

Sign up now here

If you have any further questions about how to enter the Great North Run in the future, be sure to check out the FAQs page for more information.

It's not just locals who take part in the Great North Run. Runners travel from all over the UK and further to cross the iconic Tyne Bridge as one of the ultimate sporting challenges. Whether you're a participant or a spectator, Newcastle and Gateshead have plenty of accommodation including hotels, guest houses and B&B's where you can stay during the Great North Run Weekend.