Great Birmingham Run 2026 Route Unveiled with Exciting New Finish
The eagerly anticipated route for the AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run 2026 has been officially revealed by organisers, setting the stage for one of the UK's most celebrated urban running events. Scheduled for the weekend of Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd May, this year's event promises to be a spectacular celebration of running, welcoming participants of all ages and abilities to experience Birmingham's iconic landmarks and vibrant atmosphere.
Weekend of Running Excellence
More than 17,000 runners are expected to participate across the weekend, marking a significant turnout for this beloved community event. The action kicks off on "Super Saturday," 2nd May, with the return of the Junior and Mini Great Birmingham Run at the Alexander Stadium. This prestigious venue will also serve as the centrepiece for the European Athletics Championships later in August, adding an extra layer of excitement to the weekend's proceedings.
Sunday's Scenic Routes
The main events on Sunday 3rd May feature both the 10k and half marathon distances, each designed to showcase Birmingham at its very best. Both races will commence at Centenary Square, guiding runners past a host of much-loved city landmarks. Participants can look forward to passing through the historic Jewellery Quarter, the picturesque St Paul's Square, the bustling Mailbox, Grand Central at New Street Station, the serene St Martin's Church, and the vibrant areas of Southside and Digbeth.
Half marathon runners will enjoy an extended journey that ventures into south Birmingham, where the green spaces of Cannon Hill Park and Selly Park offer a scenic contrast to the city-centre buzz. Tens of thousands of spectators are anticipated to line the route, providing enthusiastic support by ringing cowbells and handing out jelly babies to give runners a much-needed boost during the challenging moments of the race.
New Festival-Style Finish at Aston University
One of the most exciting updates for the 2026 event is the introduction of a new finish area at Aston University. As runners approach the final stretch, they will pass the instantly recognisable Selfridges Building, whose iconic curves signal the start of the home straight along Jennens Road. The race culminates in a festival-style finish village hosted on the university campus, creating a vibrant and celebratory atmosphere for all participants.
The campus will come alive with a post-run charity and events village, where runners can refuel, relax, and proudly celebrate their achievements with family and friends. The finish area will feature a variety of street food options, charity partner activations, and ample space to soak up the moment and share stories of race-day triumph.
University's Significant Role
Aston University Vice-Chancellor and CEO Professor Aleks Subic expressed delight at the university's involvement, stating: "We are delighted that 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. It is fitting that the University was chosen because 2026 marks our sixtieth anniversary, which we will be marking with a year of celebrations such as the Aston Made campaign which reflects the impact Aston University has had on Birmingham and the rest of the world."
Professor Subic added: "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."
Organisers' Enthusiasm
Paul Foster, CEO of The Great Run Company, shared his excitement about the upcoming event: "This year's event is shaping up to be one of our most exciting yet. 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."
With the route now unveiled and preparations well underway, the Great Birmingham Run 2026 is set to deliver an unforgettable experience for runners and spectators alike, reinforcing Birmingham's reputation as a premier destination for major sporting events.
