Great Bristol Run
The Run
Bristol’s much-loved running events return to the city’s streets in 2021, and this year it’s all about the comeback! Take your place on the Great Bristol Run 10k or half marathon start line and be part of the celebration.
The Countdown is On
The Great Bristol Run will be an action-packed weekend of running, and the first time the 10k and Half Marathon events will take place on the same day, along with the Great Bristol Family Run.
Join the return of Bristol’s much-loved running event, famous for the buzzing atmosphere & crowd support and iconic music and entertainment zones providing the soundtrack to your run.
Whether you do it for the challenge, to fundraise for charity, or simply for fun, Be Your Greatest with us in 2021, the year of the comeback!
Great Bristol Run entries are open to runners aged 15+ (10k) and 17+ (Half marathon) on the day of the event.
If you’re an Elite Athlete, you can find out more about Elite entry here.
In 2021 and in partnership with VI Runners Bristol we are excited to stage the first VI Runners Challenge.
Our joint ambition is use this event to promote and drive up participation in running for people registered as severely sight impaired (previously “blind”). Full details and entry information can be found here.
Book With Confidence
To keep runners safe there will be covid secure measures in place, but the thrill of running Bristol’s streets and the unbeatable feeling of crossing the finish in Millennium Square, will be even more special this year.
- All events will be staged with the full support from all key stakeholders, follow the latest government guidance and be compliant to the latest regulations.
- We will continue to plan right up until the date of the event, and will communicate any changes or updates via email and here on the event page.
In the scenario of a 2021 event date change or cancellation by us and for whatever reason, all entrants (including 2020 rollovers) will be automatically deferred into the subsequent staging of the event.
If you have any queries, please see our FAQs which should answer any questions you have.
Your Run Number
Your run number will arrive through the post ahead of event day*. This will include your wave colour, your start time and your arrival time. Please ensure you check this and arrive at the event at your allocated time.
Your Run Number is your unique number and you must wear it on the day.
Your timing chip is attached to the back of your run number, don’t remove or cover the chip (with a jacket, bum bag etc.) as this will affect the accuracy of your time. The chip will automatically record the time, so you don’t need to do anything and your chip doesn’t need to be returned at the end of the run.
Once you have your run number you are ready to go, you don’t need to register on the day.
Once you’ve filled in the back of the run number and attached it to your front (with safety pins) you are all set to go!
The last of the run packs are expected to arrive by Wednesday 15th September. If your run number hasn’t arrived through the post you can collect a replacement from the information point, located in the Bristol Amphitheatre (see map) on the weekend. The team will be in a Great Run branded marquee, the opening hours are:
Saturday 18th September: 10:00 – 16:00
Sunday 19th September: Open from 07:30
*Please note: If you secured your entry after 11:00 on Friday 10th September, you will need to collect your run pack from our information point.
2021 Event Guide
The Great Bristol Run is just around the corner, and we can’t wait to welcome you to the start line! Download the 2021 Great Bristol Run event guide for all of the event day information you need – so all that’s left to do is enjoy your big day!
Download The App
Download the free, new look Great Run event app ahead of Sunday. The app features the latest event information, and the live tracking feature allows you, and your friends and family, to track your progress along the course. Make sure you snap a Great Bristol Run selfie at the finish! Ensure you enable notifications in the app settings to receive push notifications.
2021 Wave Start Times
In order to accommodate social distancing the start will work a little differently this year. Waves will be set off in a steady flow to help regulate the number of runners through the start and around the course. Therefore, it’s important to arrive at the time allocated to you on your run number.
Timetable confirmed as of 09/08/21. Organisers reserve the right to amend subject to operational requirements.
If you have any queries about wave allocation or race packs, please see our FAQ.
On the Day
For the first time, the half marathon and 10k will take place on the same day. 10k runners will be taken on a slightly different route to half marathon runners at 2 points on the course so please familiarise yourself with the route maps.
Arrival
It’s important to get to the Arrival Zone at your allocated time found on your run number. Access is via a one-way system from the East of Bristol City Centre (Queens Square and Temple Meads direction).
You should use the toilet facilities before you enter your Assembly Zone. Toilets are available at the start/finish areas, Canons Way, Cathedral Walk and near the event village. Look for signage or ask one of the information staff on site for directions. Toilet facilities will be busy before and after the run, so please allow plenty of time.
Assembly
Clearly marked routes along the one-way system will direct you from the Arrival Zone to the Assembly Zone. Entrance to the Assembly Zone via access gates will be managed, to ensure that only the correct coloured run numbers enter.
Start
From the Assembly Zone, you will gradually make your way to the start line on Anchor Rd, where your race will start.
There will be no warm up at this year’s event, however the event site and start areas have been designed with social distancing in mind and there will be room to do your own stretches before you start.
Baggage
Baggage is located in the Bristol Amphitheatre, south of Millennium Square – what3word address: marble.beside.locals. The baggage area will be located outside and will be in an uncovered fenced-off area, so we recommend securing your belongings in a waterproof bag in case of inclement weather.
Please don’t leave valuables in your bags – this is a self-service system and although security staff will be present, organisers can’t accept any responsibility for lost or stolen items. To gain access to the baggage area and to collect your bag you will need to show your run number.
Travel & Parking
We strongly recommend that you use the excellent Public Transport that Bristol has to offer to travel to the event and planning your travel in advance to ensure you, and family and friends, make the most of the day.
There will be a number of Road Closures in place to facilitate the event, full details can be found here.
PARK AND RIDE
A special service will operate from Brislington Park & Ride and Long Ashton Park & Ride on Sunday 19 September. Normal Park & Ride fares will be in operation and tickets will be available to buy on the bus from the driver. Portway Park & Ride will not operate all day, due to road closures.
There will be Supervisors on hand at various locations to assist with any enquires.
For further details and information on route diversions on Sunday, click here. You an also view Park and Ride timetables and an information map below.
BY CAR
Should you need to travel to the event by car, the car parks below will be open and accessible to the public on the day. See parking map here.
- Trenchard Street – Entrance from Lodge Street and Trenchard Street (Open 24 hrs)
- St James Barton (Open 24 hrs)
- Rupert Street (Open 24 hrs)
- Cabot Circus (Car park open 24 Hrs, shopping open 11am until 5pm)
- Nelson St (Open 24 hrs)
BY FOOT
If you are making your way to the course by foot, please take into consideration the walking times. Walking time from The Centre to the Arrival Zone is approx. 10 mins, and from Temple Meads Station to the Arrival Zone approx. 20 mins.
BY BIKE
If you’re planning to cycle, the Better By Bike website will help you plan your route and find bike parking.
BY BUS
For local bus services visit travelwest.info for up to date information – due to road closures there will be a number of alterations to the regular timetable.
TRAIN
The closest Train station is Bristol Temple Meads which is approx. one mile (20 minute) walk.
FERRY
The cross harbour ferry service (Number Seven Boat Trips) will be running a ferry service across the harbour for the event to enable people to get over to the SS Great Britain and Spike Island. This service will run until 17:30.
Runners and spectators will also be able to travel using Bristol Ferry Boats who will be running consistently throughout the entire event, from Temple Meads, City Centre and Hotwells all day long from 10am until 6pm. Keep up to date with their travel service here.
Live Photos
Your official photos from the Great Bristol Run will be going LIVE from the moment you pass a MarathonPhotos.Live photographer located at points along the 10k and half marathon course.
Share your run number with friends and family and they can register to be notified as soon as your first photos are available online. They can then see your progress throughout the run. Don’t forget to smile for the camera!
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What Our
Runners Say
Great Bristol Run
on Facebook
Join the Great Bristol Run social community on Facebook for support, tips, event updates and more.
The Route
The 10k and Half Marathon routes showcase some of Bristols best bits! Famous for the buzzing atmosphere & crowd support and iconic music and entertainment zones providing the soundtrack to your run. New for 2021, the 10k course is now entirely in the city centre, taking in the stunning Queens Square and running past the historic Castle Park.
The Course
For the first time, the half marathon and 10k will take place on the same day. 10k runners will be taken on a slightly different route to half marathon runners at 2 points on the course so please familiarise yourself with the route maps and decision point information below.
Decision Points
10k runners will be taken on a slightly different route to half marathon runners at 2 points on the course. Before you set off on your run, please ensure you know the location of the Decision Points (see course map).
Point one: At approx. 1 mile (on both the 10k and half marathon routes). 10k runners will continue straight on and will not turn right onto The Portway. Half marathon runners will need to keep to the right and turn onto The Portway.
Point two: At approx. 1km before the finish (on both the half marathon and 10k routes). 10k runners will need to continue straight, and half marathon runners will need to go right.
There will be signage along the course to direct you but please ensure you are familiar with the route and don’t necessarily follow the person in front, as they may be doing a different distance to you.
What3Words
Exact race day locations can be really hard to describe, especially when it comes to different start areas and places without traditional addresses – like the bag drop, water stations and the finishers’ village. That’s why we’re using what3words (find our how to use what3words here).
Your Great Bristol Run what3word locations
- Location for Arrivals Zone is: ///tests.camp.throw
- Location for Assembly Zone is: ///port.home.mock
- Location for Start Line is: ///salad.feared.royal
- Location for Baggage Drop is: ///marble.beside.locals
- Location for Customer Information is: ///rare.above.simple
- Location for Finish Line is: ///lowest.busy.sport
- Location for Charities is: ///stand.advice.fact
- Location for First Aid point is: ///twice.impact.hood
- Location for Missing Persons is: ///circle.fallen.sings
- Location for Meeting Point is: ///later.wedge.daring
The Reward
The greatest reward in taking part is the sense of achievement as you cross the finish line, but by taking your place on the Great Bristol Run start line, you’re already part of something really special. Great Run events are renowned for being well-organised, safe, and inclusive and the atmosphere and support is always unbelievable.
What You Get
Before the event
We’re here to help you be your greatest, so before the big day you’ll get…
- Your personal run pack sent to you in the post, with your run number and timing chip
- Access to training plans to keep you on track
- Exclusive offers and competitions from our partners and sponsors
- Support and advice all the way up to event day
- Regular emails keeping you motivated and moving
- A huge supportive and inclusive social community on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to help you on your running journey
On Event Day
Other than all the good vibes, fitness and mental health benefits you’ll also get…
- Access to the free Great Run app to allow your loved ones to track your progress along the route
- Access to the Great Run information point for any last minute queries (or safety pins)
- Closed roads offering a safe running environment
- Food and drink options to refuel
- A shiny new medal, an exclusive finishers t-shirt plus a finisher’s bag filled with goodies
- Plenty of medical support all around our routes should you ever need any assistance
- A huge round of applause as you cross the finish
After the Event
Obviously you’ll have bragging rights for the foreseeable, but you’ll also get…
- Official event day photos available to view and purchase a couple of days after the event, so smile for the cameras!
- Your official result ready shortly after you cross the finish line
- Runners Rewards – access to special offers for participants, from our partners and sponsors as a well done.
Exclusive Offers
Take advantage of exclusive offers for Great Bristol Run entrants.
CLIF Training Pack
Building on a successful partnership over the last two years we are delighted to announce the return of CLIF as our official sports nutrition partner…
CLIF Training Pack
Building on a successful partnership over the last two years we are delighted to announce the return of CLIF as our official sports nutrition partner for the 2021 series. Look out for your CLIF Bar at the finish line!
To celebrate the partnership CLIF are offering exclusive nutrition ‘training-packs’ for all registered entrants with a range of Before/During/After products. Bag yourself £15 RRP of nutrition for only £8! (Plus P&P, Limited Stock)
Electric Vehicle Charging Offer
GeniePoint are excited to offer an exclusive discount on the GeniePoint public network to all runners. As a Great Run Series runner, you can register…
Electric Vehicle Charging Offer
GeniePoint are excited to offer an exclusive discount on the GeniePoint public network to all runners. As a Great Run Series runner, you can register to receive a discounted charging rate of 30p/kWh across our nationwide public charging network. That’s a saving of 5p/kWh every time you charge! Registrations for this offer are open until 31st October 2021 and this offer is available until 31st March 2022.
15% off Caring Range
GET 15% OFF our caring range with the code RUNNER15 at checkout on NURSEM.CO.UK Offer valid 13th August to 30th October 2021. Offer cannot be…
15% off Caring Range
GET 15% OFF our caring range with the code RUNNER15 at checkout on NURSEM.CO.UK
Offer valid 13th August to 30th October 2021. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.
Make it
Personal
If you’d like a special memento from the day, why not purchase your very own iTAB to attach to your Great Bristol 10k or Great Bristol half marathon medal ribbon? You can personalise your iTAB with your name, finishing time, and even a special message. Just £7.99 including postage and packing.
Run For Charity
If you are looking to run to raise money for a charity close to your heart or help to support a good cause there are hundreds of charity running places available to choose from.
Great Bristol Run
Charities
You may be able to secure a Great Bristol Run charity entry by agreeing to raise sponsorship money for one of our charities below.
Join forces with the team that will get you to the finish line. We're the only ones fighting over 200 cancer . Our life-saving work is funded entirely by the generosity of our supporters, so every step we make towards beating cancer relies on every pound, and every runner. One in two people now survive cancer. Together we've achieved so much, but we won't stop until we've beaten it altogether. Join the team today and we will beat cancer.
The Bobby Moore Fund was set up in memory legendary footballer Bobby Moore, who sadly died from bowel cancer aged just 51.To date the Bobby Moore Fund has raised over £20 million. The funds are spent on world class bowel cancer research carried out by leading scientists working across the UK. With your support, bowel cancer stands no chance. Let's make Bobby proud and help beat it sooner. Join the Bobby Moore Fund team today.
Around 2.5 million people are living with cancer in the UK. By 2040, this figure will rise to 5.3 million. With your help we can do more for people living with cancer, giving each person the support they need to look after all that matters and take care of their health, protect personal relationships and deal with work and money worries. We want to help everyone with cancer find their best way through, from the moment of diagnosis, so they’re able to live life as fully as they can. You can be someone who makes that happen. For more details email running@macmillan.org.uk, call 0300 1000 200 or visit our website.
Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer. We can beat it, but we can’t do it alone.
Alzheimer’s Society is the UK's leading dementia charity. We need you to run for us. We need your miles, your energy, your determination to help us find a cure. We know that training for a run isn’t easy. But we need you to beat that snooze button, beat the weather, beat the wall – beat everything that stands between you and the finish line.
Run for us and join the race to beat dementia.
St Peter's Hospice is the Bristol area's only adult Hospice. We care for local patients with life-limiting illnesses and their family members. Our care is provided free of charge at the point of service, however, it costs over £20,000 a day to provide all the incredible services that we do, in people's homes, at our Hospice in Brentry, and across the greater Bristol community. We rely on our retails shops, gifts in wills and local people to fundraise for us. Running for your Hospice is a great way to support! For more information, visit www.stpetershospice.org.
We recognise that it takes more than medicine to meet the needs of cancer patients and their loved ones. For over 40 years we have provided people in Bristol with free practical, emotional and social support they need to improve their quality of life and to manage the fear and uncertainty that a cancer diagnosis may bring. People with cancer are feeling more isolated and afraid than ever before but with your help we can be there for them. By running and fundraising for us, you can ensure our services keep going. Together we can change life with cancer. For good.
There are also charity places available with:
1625 Independent People
BRACE
Great Western Air Ambulance Charity
HFT
RAF Benevolent Fund
The Vegan Society
The Mariposa Trust
Winstons Wish
Women’s Aid
Young Lives vs Cancer
