Manchester Marathon Supporters Guide..

If you have a loved one taking part this year and want to know how best to support them and the event, then check out the information below. Whether you’re watching from home or will be joining us on the day we’ve got you covered.

To ensure our 40,000 marathon challengers can make it to the start line stress free, we ask that spectators

Don’t go to the start, especially on the Metrolink*
Avoid using any Metrolink line until after 8:30

*If you are coming from the city centre, please head on foot to Deansgate where you can join the ‘Supporter Send Off with adidas’ just over one-mile in.

Use this page to plan your day and make the most of the electric atmosphere in Greater Manchester. Find out about the best places to watch participants; get spectating tips and advice; and use our interactive walking maps to plan your day and see what each area on the route has to offer.

To make sure you have the best experience cheering on our 42,000 incredible participants, remember to head straight out along the route at the start of the day. We don’t recommend going to the start line as there are so many better places to see your participant out on the route.

1. Supporter Send Off with adidas – Deansgate Interchange

Located at the very north end of the route; Participants will pass the Supporter Send off with adidas, a dedicated cheer zone very early on at the 1 mile point. We’ll be taking over Deansgate Interchange with a big screen, crowds of supporters, and an adidas DJ truck playing music and sharing supporter messages. It’s set to be a brilliant atmosphere, giving participants a real boost as they head out onto their 26.2 mile challenge. We recommend alighting at Deansgate Tram stop and walking down Chester Road to view.

2. Hulme

Located at the northern end of the route, with quick access to the city centre and finish line you can catch your participant twice here, with viewing for those around 2 miles in and then again at around 24 miles. Hulme also offers some choice in terms of refreshments with the quaint Café Sorrel and the more lively Kim’s Kitchen and Bar. Listen out for the 200 piece drumming band – something not to miss.

3. Stretford

South west of the start line, Stretford has a fast-growing reputation as a foodie hub. Spectators can see participants between mile 5 and 6 here and also just before mile 21.

Stretford Food Hall is a great spot for a casual lunch, while Stretford Canteen has been shortlisted for the Manchester Food and Drinks Festival Award Shortlist recently. It’s also great for a post-lunch stroll along the Bridgewater Canal! Please note, this area can be extremely busy.

4. Sale

Sale is a friendly community full of lively local support. Participants pass through Cross Street just before mile 8 and Broad Road in Sale between mile 18 and 19 of the course – when fatigue is likely to have set in. Sale strikes a charming balance of both city and countryside, situated slightly further out from the bustle of the centre.

5. Altrincham

Altrincham is the southernmost point on the course where the runners turn between 12 and 13 miles. There’ll be loads of support in this lively market town, including various bands, choirs and cheer stations. With loads of great places to eat and drink the lovely town is one not to be missed.

6. Chorlton

Sitting east of Stretford and south of the finish line, Chorlton is a leafy suburb known for its independent shops and coffee houses.

At mile 22, you’ll find the Jet2 Runway, an action-packed holiday zone. Cheer squads, Mediterranean beats, a juice bar, and the sights, sounds and scents of somewhere sunny. See you on the Runway…

The atmosphere here will be truly electric on event day, as participants push into the final effort of the challenge between miles 22 and 23.

https://www.manchestermarathon.co.uk/supporter-hub/

Eddie – Saturday 18th April 2026.