Manchester Marathon 2021: Route map, road closures and travel info

The Therme Manchester Marathon returns this Sunday 10th October 2021, featuring an improved course, and plenty of activities on the route to keep runners going over 26.2 miles.

The route

The Start: 32,000 runners will begin close to Manchester United’s famous Old Trafford ground, under the distinctive Trafford Arch, next to the still standing gateway to the former botanical gardens.

Mile 4 – 6: The New City Centre Section: For the first time ever, runners will then enter the city centre passing iconic landmarks starting with the Beetham Tower (Hilton Hotel). The runners will then pass the Great Northern Railway Goods Warehouse and the Free Trade Hall before turning into Mount Street by the Midland Hotel. Passing the Manchester Central Library and the Quaker Meeting House the runners enter Albert Square where the Town Hall and buildings are undergoing extensive renovation. Next it is John Dalton Street and back onto Deansgate for the return into Trafford, first passing the John Ryland Library and Spinningfields. You will also head past Manchester United FC where WWF will be waiting to cheer on the runners as they pass.

Mile 11 – 13: a particularly musical stretch in Sale. At mile 11 runners enter Sale and are entertained by 2XU’s infamous defender and MC. Shortly after, you will be entertained by marathon’s favourites – the Salvation Army Band. Just before 13 miles we have our second relay change point, important for both 2 and 4 leg relay teams where BSB sound are located and then the psychologically significant halfway mark.

Mile 16: Amazing Altrincham. Runners will enter Altrincham Town Centre at the 16 mile mark. Altrincham is always a massive favourite thanks to its incredible atmosphere, live music, and this year, the Music Place Choir on Stamford New Road, The Orange Fitness Cheering Point on Stamford Street, The Little Belters Kids Choir on Market Street and the Altrincham F C Mascot and cheer point on Regent Road. The Christie’s second cheer point will also be a boost at the tough 16.5 mile mark. On Stamford New Road we still have Loose Change and then Pure Gym before returning towards Timperley.

Mile 20: a much needed boost at mile 20 on Marsland Road, where you will find the Cheshire Pop Choir and The Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital team cheering you on just after 21 miles.

Mile 25-26.2: The last couple of kilometres include the Hoka Onay Onay #TimeToFly zone, leading to the finish straight, with the moment of glory crossing the line outside UA92. After catching your breath it is time to celebrate!

Road closures

In order to facilitate an event of this size, organisers say they need to close some roads in order to allow the runners to move safely around the course.

The start will remain in its present location under the White City Arch, with the world-famous backdrop of Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium, and continue to offer its popular finish running past Trafford Town Hall and Lancashire Cricket Club.

Travel information

Tram

With tens of thousands of runners, as well as spectators lining the streets, it's expected to be incredibly busy.

The planned Metrolink industrial action on Sunday has been cancelled and Metrolink are now able to operate a normal Sunday service, with additional shuttle bus services, to support the Manchester Marathon.

If you're travelling to watch or compete in the run, Metrolink services operate from 7am on Sunday morning.

All lines – in particular the Altrincham, East Didsbury and Trafford Park Lines – are expected to be much busier than normal throughout the day.

Shuttle bus

As the Metrolink is likely to be busy, a regular shuttle bus service will also run from Piccadilly Gardens (city centre) to Trafford Wharf Road. Head to the J Stand bus stop and follow instructions from the TFGM team.

Once your journey is complete it is around a 25-minute walk to the Athletes’ Village. You will also be able to catch a return shuttle bus from Trafford Wharf Road after the event (last return bus at 17:30).

Park and Ride from Event City

Those coming by car can also park for free at Event City, located close to The Trafford Centre, thanks to the Peel L&P Park and Ride. From here you can either get the Metrolink (line is in service from 7am) or jump on one of the regular replacement shuttle buses to Trafford Wharf Road. Once dropped off it is around a 25-minute walk to the Athletes’ Village.

You will also be able to catch a return shuttle bus from Trafford Wharf Road after the event (last return bus at 17:30).

Walking

Depending on your location, it may be possible to walk the final portion of your journey to the event. If this is possible, please consider this option, as it will help ease other runners and volunteers’ journeys.

You can keep up to date with travel arrangements in Manchester city centre for the event by visiting Transport for Greater Manchester.