Road & Metro Closures During Great Run 10k - July 5th, 2026

Thousands of runners, spectators and visitors are expected to fill the streets of Newcastle when the AJ Bell Great North 10K returns on Sunday, July 5, 2026.

One of the North East's biggest mass participation running events, the Great North 10K attracts runners of all abilities, from elite athletes chasing personal bests to charity fundraisers and first-time participants taking on the 10-kilometre challenge through Newcastle city centre.

While the event provides a welcome boost for local businesses and creates a fantastic atmosphere across the city, it will also bring temporary road closures and travel disruption. Motorists and public transport users are being encouraged to plan ahead before travelling into Newcastle on race day.

When Is The Great North 10K 2026.

The AJ Bell Great North 10K takes place on Sunday, July 5, 2026.

Thousands of runners are expected to gather in Newcastle city centre before setting off on a scenic route through some of the city's most recognisable streets and landmarks. The event has become a popular fixture in the North East sporting calendar, attracting participants from across the UK each year.

Whether runners are aiming for a new personal best or simply enjoying the atmosphere, the event offers something for competitors of every ability.

Thousands Expected To Visit Newcastle.

The Great North 10K continues to bring visitors into Newcastle each summer, helping support hotels, restaurants, cafés and city centre businesses.

According to Experience North East England, the region's visitor economy was worth more than £7.1 billion in 2025, with tourism supporting around 63,600 jobs across the North East. Major sporting events such as the Great North 10K play an important role in attracting overnight visitors and showcasing Newcastle to new audiences.

Many runners choose to spend the weekend in the city, combining race day with shopping, dining and exploring local attractions.

Road Closures Across Newcastle.

To ensure the safety of runners and spectators, a number of roads across Newcastle city centre will be temporarily closed throughout race day.

Drivers should expect restrictions on roads surrounding the start and finish areas, with several city centre routes closing during the morning before reopening later in the day once competitors have safely completed the course.

Motorists travelling into Newcastle are advised to allow extra time, avoid the city centre where possible and follow official diversion routes.

Exact road closure timings and locations should be checked before travelling, as these can vary depending on operational requirements and weather conditions.

Public Transport Will Be Busy.

Public transport is expected to be the easiest way to reach the event.

Tyne and Wear Metro services are likely to experience higher passenger numbers throughout the morning as runners and spectators travel into Newcastle city centre.

Nexus advises customers attending major events to purchase tickets before travelling and check live service updates before leaving home. Additional staff are often deployed at busy stations to help manage passenger flows during large-scale events.

Anyone travelling by train should allow extra time, particularly during the busiest arrival and departure periods.

A Boost For Newcastle Businesses.

Large sporting events regularly generate significant economic benefits for Newcastle.

Hotels, restaurants, coffee shops, pubs and retail businesses all benefit from increased visitor numbers throughout race weekend. Many independent businesses also see additional trade from runners and their supporters exploring the city before and after the event.

The Great North 10K also highlights Newcastle's growing reputation as one of the UK's leading destinations for mass participation sport, helping attract future visitors throughout the year.

More Than Just A Race.

For many runners, the Great North 10K is about much more than crossing the finish line.

Hundreds of participants take part to raise money for charities, celebrate personal milestones or complete their first organised race. The supportive atmosphere created by volunteers, spectators and fellow runners has helped establish the event as one of the region's most popular community sporting occasions.

The race also encourages healthier lifestyles while inspiring people of all ages to become more active, reinforcing the North East's reputation for hosting welcoming and inclusive sporting events.

Plan Ahead Before Race Day.

Whether you're taking part in the Great North 10K, cheering from the sidelines or simply travelling around Newcastle, planning ahead will make your day much easier.

Road closures, busy public transport and increased visitor numbers are all expected, particularly during the morning and early afternoon.

Checking official travel updates before setting out, allowing extra journey time and considering public transport wherever possible will help minimise disruption and ensure everyone can enjoy one of Newcastle's biggest sporting events safely.

Share your views below.

Are you taking part in this years Great North 10K 2026 or planning to watch along the route?