Over the past 12 months, it’s seemed as though more and more people have caught a sudden urge to run. From what? To where? Who knows. But that’s meant that spaces for this year’s Manchester Marathon filled up in record time, despite there being even more places available than previous years.
So, a week before London hosts its world-famous famous marathon, 32,000 people will be pushing themselves to the limit and running 26.2 miles through the northern city. No mean feat. Whether you’re one of the aforementioned inspiring individuals or planning to spectate armed with colourful signage, clackers and a tinnie or two, here’s our guide to the Manchester Marathon 2024.
When is the Manchester Marathon 2024?
This year’s event is taking place on Sunday, April 14.
What time will the Manchester Marathon start?
Participants will be let loose in waves between 8.55am and 11.10pm, depending on their allocated zone. The specific wave timings are:
- Elite wheelchair: 8.55am
- Elite: 9.00am
- White: 9.00am
- Red: 9.10am
- Light blue: 9.20am
- Bronze: 9.30am
- Green: 9.40am
- Purple: 9.50am
- Yellow: 10.00am
- Dark blue: 10.10am
- Grey: 10.20am
- Maroon: 10.30am
- Orange: 10.40am
- Black: 10.50am
- Pink: 11.00
- Cyan: 11.10
What’s this year’s route?
As in previous years, the route kicks off at Lancashire County Cricket Club in Old Trafford and loops back to finish nearby. Runners will be taken through Chorlton, Sale, Altrincham, Stretford, past Salford Quays and through the city centre.
For a closer look at the route, see the official race guide.
What road closures do I need to know?
You can expect a lot of closures and major bus diversions across the city. Roads along and around the route will all be affected and surrounding roads are expected to get super busy. So make sure you factor that into your journey.
The main road closures include the A56 (northbound and southbound), which will be shut between 3am and 2pm. The final closed road between Chorlton and Old Trafford is expected to reopen around 8pm.
How to enter the 2025 Manchester Marathon
Next year’s event is officially happening on Sunday, April 27 (the same day as London 2025). To get yourself a place on the starting line, apply for priority access here.
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