Great North Run 2025: Everything You Need to Know About Start Times and Race Day Schedule

World’s Largest Half Marathon Returns

The Great North Run, the UK’s biggest running event and one of the largest half marathons globally, attracts approximately 60,000 entrants annually – from charity runners and first-time joggers to elite athletes. The event raises around £25 million for good causes each year.

Start Time Schedule

The race will feature a wave start system with specific time slots:
– Orange wave: 10:50am – 11:20am
– Green wave: 11:25am – 11:55am
– Pink wave: After 11:55am

Runners can identify their designated wave by checking the colour of their race number, which are being sent out by post. These numbers will also be used for runner tracking on race day.

Route and Transport Information

The route begins in Newcastle, crossing the Tyne Bridge into Gateshead, then continues along Park Lane and the A184 into South Tyneside. After passing through Jarrow, runners head to Simonside in South Shields, turning onto John Reid Road and Prince Edward Road, before completing the final mile along the coast to the finish line.

For those heading to the start line, Haymarket and Jesmond are the closest metro stations, though services will be extremely busy. Newcastle Central Station is accessible within a 20-30 minute walk, and numerous bus routes terminate at Haymarket bus station, just a short distance from the start.

Special Features and Support

Spectators can get excellent views of the action early in Newcastle, particularly near the start line or Tyne Bridge, where the Red Arrows traditionally perform a flyover. Due to the event’s popularity, the course gets extremely crowded, so those planning to meet runners at the South Shields finish line should allow plenty of time.

Post-race celebrations include the Great North Run event village and Après Run Zone, featuring a bar, entertainment tent, exhibitors, and various food and drink vendors.