Bristol 2024 Half Marathon: road closures, times, route and where to watch

A sell-out event this year, the AJ Bell Great Bristol Run takes place later this month, with thousands of runners set to embark on the half marathon and 10km races on 19 May. Bristol Family Run, in partnership with Bristol Children’s Hospital charity, The Grand Appeal.

The Mascot Race will see several ‘giant mascots’ battle it out for first place at 8.45am on the day. Whether you’re running or watching, you can find out the ins and outs of the event – from start times, to what to do if you haven’t received your race packet, road closures, bag storage and more – below.

Or you can see more in-depth information – from how to prepare for the race, to the entertainment on offer – in the Great Bristol Run guide here. The only thing left to do is lie down…

Read more: List of running events in Bristol from 2024, including the half marathon and night races

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What is the AJ Bell Great Bristol Run – and how can I take part?

This year, around 15,000 runners take part in the day’s races. According to the event organisers, it has officially sold out, however there are still a limited number of charity places available – you can find a list here, but be quick as they will be snapped up quickly.

According to the official event description: “Beloved by Bristolians and beyond, the AJ Bell Great Bristol Run is known as the best in the South West – and for good reason. Every year, thousands of runners push their endurance and passion to the limit and take on Bristol’s super scenic 10km and half marathon routes.

“If stunning views, inspiring history and graffiti murals are your thing, then the Great Bristol Run is right up your street. Starting in the heart of the city, runners will pass some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and listen to incredible local support. along the route, before reaching the grandstand in Millennium Square.

“But it’s not just the awe-inspiring scenery that draws runners from far and wide: the fast, flat course also makes this running event perfect for those looking for a new personal best – or just wanting to get to the finish line!”

Event schedule

This event schedule for Sunday, May 19, 2024 is correct at the time of writing, but is subject to change.

• 8:00 – The information point opens
• 8.30 am – The Start assembly arena opens
• 8.45 am – Mascot race
• 8.53 am – Family run warm-up
• 9:00 – Family Run begins
• 9:18 – 10K warm-up begins
• 9:25 – 10K Wheelchair Start
• 9.28 am – VI (visually impaired) Race begins
• 9.30am – 10K Fast start and Orange Wave
• 9.42am – 10K green wave start
• 9.54am – 10K Pink Wave starts
• 10.30 – Start of the warm-up half-marathon
• 10:40 a.m. – Start of the Orange Wave Half Marathon
• 10.56 am – Start of the Green Wave Half Marathon
• 11.12 – Start of the Pink Wave Half Marathon

What do the colors of the waves mean?

The wave color and start time can be found on the race number, which should arrive in the post about two weeks before the event. Once you have received it, you have everything you need for the day of the event and you do not need to visit the Information Point to register on the day.

Simply attach your running number, which has the timing chip attached, to the front of your running top with safety pins and head to the start line. On the day, signs will direct you to the assembly area on Canons Way and the start line on Anchor Road. You can find a starter map here.

If you have secured race entry after 10am on Friday 10th May, your race number will not be displayed and must be collected from the Information Point. A warm-up artist will be on site to warm up and stretch all runners before the big event, and waves will start separately to help regulate the flow of runners along the course.

What will be the route of the runners?

The image below shows the entire runner route. If you can’t view it on this page, you can find it, as well as several maps, on the official event website.

Will there be road closures?

Event organizers suggest using the public transport options available on the day and allow plenty of time to get to the start line as there will be a number of road closures. A full list of these closures can be found on the official Great Bristol Run website here.

Organizers have confirmed there will be a “rolling programme” of road closures starting at Anchor Road at 4am on Sunday 19 May 2024 to “ensure a safe running route for the 15,000 runners taking part “. All roads should be reopened by 5pm the same day.

Roads will be reopened in stages once each section is clear of runners, litter and event infrastructure. During the road closure, vehicle access will not be possible, unless otherwise stated or agreed in advance. However, pedestrian and emergency service access will be maintained to all properties throughout the event.

You can raise any concerns about the proposed road closures by 15 May 2024 and contact event organizers regarding traffic queries, road closure information and alternative routes by emailing [email protected] or by calling 0808 1644 654.

How do I get to the Great Bristol Run?

You can plan your public transport journey to the Great Bristol Run through Travel West here. While Better By Bike can help you plan your route and find bike parking.

You can view a map of the city’s car parks here, created by the Great Bristol Run team, if you find yourself having to drive. And you can find out more about Bristol’s clean air zone fees, rules and regulations here.

Where is the information point located?

The information point is the place for last minute enquiries, race pack collection or anyone who hasn’t received their race number. It will be housed in an AJ Bell branded marquee and will be located in Millennium Square on Saturday 18th May (10am – 4pm) and Bristol Amphitheater on Sunday 19th May (8am – 3.30pm).

Where can I store my things?

Baggage buses are located at the Amphitheater. You’ll need to make sure you remember which bus you’re on and fill in your luggage tag (the tear-off from the running number) before you leave home and secure it to your bag – you’ll need your running number to get access to buses to drop off and pick up your luggage.

Can I still sign up for the 2025 race?

You can sign up for updates and be notified when 2025 entries open using the form on this page. The Great Bristol Run team will also be providing running guidance, special offers, training tips, top tips and more updates for you to enjoy while you wait.