The Great Manchester Run is one of the most exciting sporting events in the UK, attracting thousands of runners and spectators to the city. While it’s a fantastic day for participants and fans, it can pose challenges for drivers due to road closures, diversions, and increased congestion.
Whether you're heading into Manchester for the event or just need to get around the city, here’s everything you need to know about road closures, the best parking options, and travel advice to ensure a smooth journey on race day.
Key information about the Great Manchester Run 2025
When is the Great Manchester Run?
The Great Manchester Run 2025 is set to take place on Sunday, May 18th, 2025. The event features both a 10K and a half-marathon, with thousands of runners taking part.
How many people take part?
Every year, over 25,000 runners participate in the event, ranging from elite athletes to charity runners and first-timers. The city streets also see thousands of spectators lining the route to cheer on participants.
What is the Great Manchester Run route?
The 10K and half-marathon routes start and finish in central Manchester, with key locations including:
- Portland Street (Start Line)
- Deansgate
- Old Trafford
- Salford Quays
- Manchester City Centre (Finish Line near Beetham Tower)
Race timings
The event starts in the morning, with staggered start times:
- Half Marathon Start: Around 8:20 AM
- 10K Start: From 11:40 AM
- Event Finishes: Early afternoon, though roads will remain busy for some time.
Major road closures and how long they’ll last
To accommodate the Great Manchester Run, several roads across the city will be closed. Here’s what drivers need to know:
Main road closures
- Portland Street, Deansgate & St Peter’s Square – Closed from early morning until mid-afternoon.
- Great Bridgewater Street & Oxford Road – Restricted access throughout the morning.
- Old Trafford & Salford Quays – Expect closures from early morning until early afternoon.
- Manchester City Centre (Finish Line area) – Closures lasting until the late afternoon.
How long will closures last?
Most closures will start in the early morning (around 5:00 AM - 6:00 AM) and will remain in place until at least 3:00 PM. Some roads may reopen earlier as runners pass through, but areas near the finish line may remain closed longer due to crowd movement and event operations.
Expected increase in congestion
Even after roads reopen, expect heavy congestion throughout the day, especially near Deansgate, Salford Quays, and Oxford Road. Public transport will also be significantly busier than usual.
Best parking options for the Great Manchester Run
Driving into Manchester on race day? Secure your parking in advance with JustPark to avoid stress and ensure easy access to your destination.
Why use JustPark for the Great Manchester Run?
- Reserve a space in advance – No need to search for parking on the day.
- Guarantee access to your destination – Avoid last-minute issues with road closures.
- Save money – Pre-booking can be more affordable than city-centre parking on the day.
- Convenience – Find private driveways and off-street parking unaffected by road closures.
Where to park for the Great Manchester Run?
- Near Old Trafford & Salford Quays – Ideal for spectators and those needing access to the western part of the route.
- Manchester Victoria & Piccadilly Areas – Great for those taking public transport or walking into the event area.
- Oxford Road & Deansgate Areas – Limited access due to closures, but JustPark offers options nearby.
- Outside the City Centre – Book parking in surrounding areas and use public transport for the final leg of your journey.
Park & Ride options for the Great Manchester Run
If you're coming from out of town and want to avoid the inner-city congestion from the run, we'd advise parking further out and taking a shuttle or train for the rest of your journey. Note that all of these options are likely to be very busy or full on race day, so be sure to have a plan in mind. Below are a few options:
Driving from the North:
- Bury Interchange (Metrolink Tram): Located near the M66 motorway, Bury Interchange offers free parking facilities. The Metrolink tram provides a direct route to Manchester city centre, with a journey time of approximately 30 minutes.
Driving from the South:
- East Didsbury (Metrolink Tram): Accessible via the M56 motorway, East Didsbury provides free parking options. The Metrolink tram connects directly to Manchester city centre, with a travel time of around 25 minutes. Alternatively, you can book a parking space ahead of time for £1 an hour to guarantee yourself a space near the station.
Driving from the East:
- Ashton Moss (Metrolink Tram): Situated near the M60 motorway, Ashton Moss offers free parking facilities. The Metrolink tram services the route to Manchester city centre, with a journey time of about 25 minutes.
Driving from the West:
- Ladywell (Metrolink Tram): Located near the M602 motorway, Ladywell provides free parking options. The Metrolink tram offers a direct line to Manchester city centre, with an approximate travel time of 20 minutes.
By selecting a suitable Park & Ride option, you can enjoy a hassle-free journey into Manchester, avoiding the stress of city centre parking and potential congestion.
Final tips for drivers on race day
- Check road closure maps in advance – The official Great Manchester Run website provides detailed road closure updates.
- Plan alternative routes – Navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze will help avoid closed roads and heavy congestion.
- Allow extra travel time – Expect delays and a higher volume of traffic throughout the day.
- Book parking early – JustPark spaces fill up quickly, so secure yours well in advance.
By planning ahead and using JustPark, you can ensure a smooth experience on race day. Whether you’re a participant, spectator, or just traveling through Manchester, staying informed will help you navigate the city with ease.
