Great North Run 2026

Image shows the beginning of the Great North Run, with thousands of runners crossing the start line. Behind them is the white, blue and red smoke from the Red Arrows air display

Be part of the Great North Run 2026 – the largest half marathon in the world – and make a huge difference by running for charity.

Described as the world’s most famous half marathon, the Great North Run spans 13.1 miles. Watch the Red Arrows roar overhead and soak up the amazing atmosphere at this very special race.

Event details

13.1 miles

Sunday 13 September 2026

Newcastle upon Tyne

Fundraising pledge: £350

Registration fee: £30

About the Great North Run route

Starting in Newcastle and running across the Tyne Bridge into Gateshead, the Great North Run will take you along through South Tyneside, where the finish line awaits at South Shields. The Great North Run course has a few gentle hills.

Find out more about the route.

Girl wearing red hairband smiles at her mum

Why we need you

Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity (GOSH Charity) needs your support more than ever. By fundraising, you'll help to fun:

  • groundbreaking research
  • advanced equipment
  • children and family support services
  • the rebuilding and refurbishments of wards and medical facilities within the hospital

Why take part in the Great North Run for TeamGOSH?

We'll be with you every step of the way of your Great North Run journey. Join us and receive:

  • a free GOSH Charity running vest

  • tips and advice on fundraising for the Great North Run

  • access to professional training advice and resources

  • cheering point along the Great North Run route for your family and friends

  • unlimited support from a dedicated from GOSH Charity's Challenge Events team

Any questions

If you have any questions about the Great North Run 2026 or the fundraising requirements, please feel free to get in touch with our challenge events team, who will be happy to help at challenges@gosh.org

Great North Run FAQs

£350 minimum fundraising pledge (excluding Gift Aid).

We recommend setting up an Enthuse or JustGiving fundraising page, take a look at the 'improve your fundraising' section of the website.

The Great North Run distance is the standard half marathon length of 13.1 miles (21.1 kilometres).

The Great North Run 2026 is Sunday, 13 September 2026.

The Great North Run start time is typically from 10:45am, with runners setting off in staggered waves throughout the morning. Your exact start time will depend on your allocated wave and arrival slot.

The Great North Run route starts in Newcastle upon Tyne and takes runners over the iconic Tyne Bridge, through Gateshead, and finished at the beautiful coast of South Shields.

The course features some steady inclines, particularly in the first half of the race, but nothing extreme. The Great North Run is great for runners of all abilities.

You can use the official Great North Run tracker app to follow a participant's live progress. The app will be available to download before race day.