Race guide
Great North Run Guide
The Great North Run is the world’s largest half marathon, a point-to-point race from Newcastle to the coast at South Shields held in September. The route is undulating with notable early climbs and a long downhill toward the sea, then a flat coastal finish. Effort-based pacing on the hills and patience early set up a strong finish.
- Location
- Newcastle to South Shields, England
- Distance
- Half Marathon (21.1 km / 13.1 mi)
Typical conditions
Held in September. Typically mild (12–18°C), sometimes breezy along the coast at the finish. Good racing weather most years.
Course & elevation
- Point-to-point with undulations in the first half, including a climb out of Newcastle and over the Tyne.
- A long descent toward the coast in the back half that lets you build pace.
- A flat seafront finish at South Shields, often into a coastal breeze.
Pacing strategy
- Pace the early hills by effort and avoid overreaching before the descent.
- Use the long downhill in the second half to build momentum — but stay controlled to save legs for the seafront.
- Expect a possible headwind on the coastal finish and keep a little in reserve.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Great North Run hilly?
It is undulating, with notable climbs early on and a long descent toward the coast in the second half. It is not flat, but it is not severe either.
How should I pace the Great North Run?
Run the early hills by effort, use the second-half downhill to build pace, and save a little for a possibly windy seafront finish.
How big is the Great North Run?
It is the world’s largest half marathon, so the start is busy — be patient through the opening kilometres.
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