This is everything you need to know for the Great North Run 2026 - from weather to travel tips
As thousands prepare to take on the Great North Run, this is all the key information you need to know.
The 2026 Great North Run race day is finally here and thousands will be descending on the North East to take on the iconic half-marathon.
Whether it is your first time taking on the run or you’re a seasoned veteran, it is always handy to know some top tips for the day.
More than 60,000 people are expected to take part in this year’s event on Sunday, September 13.
This is everything you need to know for the 2026 Great North Run:
How can I travel to the Great North Run start line?
The race starts on the A167, in Newcastle city centre, which can be easily reached from Claremont Road and the Town Moor.
Your wave colour (Special, Orange, Green or Pink), shown on your run number, will determine your arrival time, route and assembly time.
Those heading to the start line in Newcastle city centre are recommended to use the Tyne and Wear Metro due to the number of road closures that will be in place.
A huge number of buses head into Newcastle from across the North East with two of the best served bus stops being found at Haymarket and Eldon Square.
If you are driving, no specific parking is available for the event although a large number of multi storey car parks can be found across Newcastle. These will, however, be very busy on race day.
You can find up to date travel information for this year’s Great North Run online at: https://travelnortheast.uk/great-north-run/.
How can I get home from the Great North Run finish line?
The seafront at South Shields gets extremely busy on the day of the race and the town’s Transport Interchange is key for getting people home after the Great North Run.
The Interchange, on Keppel Street, is about a 15 minute walk from the finish line.
The site is home to South Shields’ Metro station as well as a series of bus routes, including those which come from Newcastle.
It is worth noting that some routes may be disrupted by closed roads on the day.
Nexus have said additional services will run throughout the day.
The Shields Ferry will also be offering additional services until around 6pm on race day to ensure crowds can get over the Tyne.
Much like at Newcastle, there will be no parking available specifically for the race itself.
There are also less public car parks in South Shields than Newcastle so it may be worth sticking to public transport.
What will the weather be like?
According to Met Office forecasters, race day will start off slightly cloudy with some bright and sunny spells.
Temperatures are expected to be sitting at around 14°C throughout the morning.
Forecasters are predicting more of the same as we head into the mid-afternoon; however, they do expect the weather to remain dry.
Met Office forecasters are expecting daily highs of 18°C.
Full details for the 2026 Great North Run can be found at: https://www.greatrun.org/events/great-north-run/.