Organisers have unveiled the eagerly anticipated course for the 2026 AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run, promising a spectacular weekend of running with a brand new festival-style finish that aims to elevate the participant experience. The event is scheduled to take place over the weekend of Saturday, May 2, and Sunday, May 3, 2026, welcoming runners of all abilities to tackle one of the nation's most iconic urban running routes.
A Weekend of Running for All Ages and Abilities
More than 17,000 runners are expected to converge on Birmingham for this major sporting weekend. The festivities kick off on the Saturday with the Junior and Mini Great Birmingham Run events, which will be hosted at the renowned Alexander Stadium. This provides a fantastic opportunity for younger athletes to get involved and experience the thrill of a large-scale running event.
The main events follow on Sunday, May 3, with participants able to choose between the challenging 10k race and the longer half marathon. Both distances promise to showcase the very best of England's second city, taking runners on a scenic tour through some of Birmingham's most vibrant and historic districts.
Exploring Birmingham's Landmarks on Foot
The Sunday route has been carefully designed to offer a rich tapestry of urban landscapes. Runners will pass through the creative hub of the Jewellery Quarter, the culturally rich streets of Digbeth, and the bustling Grand Central area. For those taking on the half marathon, the course extends further, offering a contrasting experience as it heads into south Birmingham.
Here, participants will enjoy the serene green spaces of Cannon Hill Park and Selly Park, providing a peaceful respite from the energetic city-centre atmosphere. Thousands of spectators are expected to line the streets, offering cheers and encouragement every step of the way, ensuring the return of the 10k event will be a particularly memorable occasion.
The Grand Finale: A Festival Village at Aston University
One of the most significant and exciting updates for the 2026 event is the introduction of a dedicated festival-style finish village, which will be hosted at Aston University. This new finale marks a strategic change to the event's traditional route and is set to become a highlight of the race day.
As runners enter the final stretch along Jennens Road and onto the university campus, they will be greeted by a vibrant celebration area. The campus will be transformed into a lively post-run hub, where participants can refuel, relax, and proudly celebrate their achievements with family, friends, and fellow runners.
Celebrating Sixty Years of Aston University
The choice of Aston University as the finish location is particularly poignant, as 2026 marks the institution's sixtieth anniversary. Professor Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor and CEO of Aston University, expressed his delight at hosting the event village.
"We are delighted Aston University will host the event village at the end of the Great Birmingham Run, bringing together participants, friends and family to celebrate on our campus," said Professor Subic. "It is fitting that the University was chosen because 2026 marks our sixtieth anniversary, which we will be marking with a year of celebrations. Having the Great Birmingham Run finish on campus is another expression of how we have become a focal point for the city and an integral part of Birmingham."
The finish area itself is designed to be a comprehensive celebration zone. It will feature:
- A variety of street food vendors to help runners replenish their energy.
- Interactive activations from the event's charity partners.
- Ample space for participants to share their race-day stories and triumphs.
An Unforgettable Sporting Weekend for the City
Paul Foster, CEO of The Great Run Company, emphasised that the 2026 event is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in the run's history. "The new finish along Jennens Road and into Aston University allows us to create a real celebration for runners, their supporters and our charity partners," he stated. "From the buzz of the start line to the roar of the crowds and the final push to the finish, this is Birmingham at its very best. Whether you’re taking on your first 10k, stepping up to the half marathon, or cheering from the side-lines, we can’t wait for what will be an unforgettable weekend."
With its new route, festival atmosphere, and a finish line that promises a true party, the 2026 Great Birmingham Run is set to be a landmark event in the city's sporting calendar, celebrating both community fitness and civic pride.
