The Therme Manchester Marathon returns on Sunday 10th October 2021, featurng an improved course, and plenty of activities on the route to keep our runners going over 26.2 miles. We’ve packed a lot of information into this new route preview so you can get excited for the big day!

You can enjoy an intensive interactive guide to the route below in our new video, and we have also provided a rundown of some of our key milestones/highlights along the route…

The Start: 32,000 runners will begin close to Manchester United’s famous Old Trafford ground, under the distinctive Trafford Arch, next to the still standing gateway to the former botanical gardens.

Mile 4 – 6: The New City Centre Section: For the first time ever, runners will then enter the city centre passing iconic landmarks starting with the Beetham Tower (Hilton Hotel). The runners will then pass the Great Northern Railway Goods Warehouse and the Free Trade Hall before turning into Mount Street by the Midland Hotel. Passing the Manchester Central Library and the Quaker Meeting House the runners enter Albert Square where the Town Hall and buildings are undergoing extensive renovation. Next it is John Dalton Street and back onto Deansgate for the return into Trafford, first passing the John Ryland Library and Spinningfields.  You will also head past Manchester United FC where WWF will be waiting to cheer on the runners as they pass.

Mile 11 – 13: a particularly musical stretch in Sale. At mile 11 we enter Sale and are entertained by 2XU’s infamous defender and MC. Shortly after, you will be entertained by marathon’s favourites – the Salvation Army Band. Just before 13 miles we have our second relay change point, important for both 2 and 4 leg relay teams where BSB sound are located and then the psychologically significant halfway mark.

Mile 16 – Amazing Altrincham. Runners will enter Altrincham Town Centre at the 16 mile mark. Altrincham is always a massive favourite thanks to its incredible atmosphere, live music, and this year, the Music Place Choir on Stamford New Road, The Orange Fitness Cheering Point on Stamford Street, The Little Belters Kids Choir on Market Street and the Altrincham F C Mascot and cheer point on Regent Road. The Christie’s second cheer point will also be a boost at the tough 16.5 mile mark. On Stamford New Road we still have Loose Change and then Pure Gym before returning towards Timperley.

Mile 20: a much needed boost at mile 20 on Marsland Road, where you will find the Cheshire Pop Choir and The Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital team cheering you on just after 21 miles.

Mile 25-26.2: The last couple of kilometres include the Hoka Onay Onay #TimeToFly zone, leading to the finish straight, with the moment of glory crossing the line outside UA92. After catching your breath it is time to celebrate!

For more detail on the 2021 route, including water and Science in Sport gel station, plus road closures, use the menu options above.