Adidas Manchester Marathon

The Adidas Manchester Marathon is one of the UK’s premier spring marathons, tracing its modern roots to the city’s long tradition of road racing and growing rapidly into a top destination for both elite athletes chasing fast times and club runners seeking a personal best. Held each April, the race has become an integral part of Manchester’s sporting calendar, attracting tens of thousands of participants and supporters from across the UK and internationally. Over the years it has gained a reputation for reliable organization, strong spectator support, and a lively race village that celebrates the city’s sporting and cultural energy. The course is a predominantly flat, fast loop through Greater Manchester that showcases many of the region’s landmarks and varied urban scenery. Runners pass historic Salford and the modern waterfront at Salford Quays and MediaCityUK, run alongside the River Irwell, and thread through iconic city-centre areas including Castlefield and Deansgate before finishing close to central Manchester. The route’s gentle profile and long, straight sections make it a popular choice for PB attempts and for athletes aiming to qualify for major international races. On course, athletes experience enthusiastic local crowds, live music and bands at multiple points, and well-spaced aid stations and crowd support that help maintain a buoyant, festival-like atmosphere from start to finish. The event is officially measured and certified and is recognized as a qualifying race for marathons such as Boston; it is delivered to high standards in line with national governing body requirements and international measurement practices (AIMS/IAAF/World Athletics measurement standards). Whether chasing a competitive time, a Boston qualifying mark, or simply enjoying a memorable marathon through one of Britain’s most dynamic cities, participants can expect a well-supported, fast-course experience with strong local flavor.