Great North Run 2026

This iconic race has welcomed millions of runners since 1981, and this year we mark an incredible 45 years of the famous event.

Travelling by Metro

Great North Run is the busiest day of the year for Metro, with thousands of runners and spectators coming to the North East. Not everyone will travel by Metro but our trains will be very busy.

The run starts in Newcastle and ends in South Shields. The nearest stations to the start of the run are Haymarket, Monument and Jesmond in Newcastle city centre; about a 15-20 minute walk to the start line. The nearest station to the end of the run is South Shields, again about a 15 minute walk.

There will be additional Metro services to help runners get to the start of the run and home afterwards. Trains will still be extremely busy so please make sure you leave extra travelling time and be prepared to wait in queues. Crowd control measures will be in place at some stations.

It is almost impossible to see a runner in more than one location, as stations and trains will be very busy and because it takes time to reach the route. If you plan to see your relatives or friends take part in the run, we recommend you choose one place to see them, either setting off at the start in Newcastle city centre or at the end in South Shields.

Tickets

Avoid ticket machine queues on the day by buying your travel ticket in advance.

Remember kids go free! Up to three kids aged 11 and under can travel for free on Metro and the Shields Ferry, all day, every day when accompanied by a fare-paying adult. Find out more about kids go free.

Look after yourself

Listen to guidance from our customer service teams and to station announcements. When waiting on platforms stand behind the yellow line and when the train arrives allow people to get off before trying to board.

Remember to stay hydrated before, during and after the run. If you feel unwell speak to a member of the customer service team or contact control by using a station Help Point.

Temporary station closures

To assist with the movement of customers and improve crowd control we’ll be temporarily closures at some stations.

When walking to alternative stations, please take care and use pedestrian crossings or underpasses where available. To view the latest live travel updates select here or download the Pop App available on the App Store and Google Play, simply search ‘Pop Nexus’.

After the run

There will be queues for Metro trains to all destinations, so please be prepared to wait. If you have a Metro ticket have it handy. If you don’t have a ticket, you’ll be able to buy one on the day.

If you’d rather let the queues reduce before joining them, there are a number of cafes, restaurants and pubs in South Shields to visit.

For help planning your journey call 0191 20 20 747 (lines are open Monday-Friday, 9.00am-5.00pm).