Durham City Run 5k and 10k returns to Cathedral finish line

Runners will once again cross the finish line at the iconic Durham Cathedral and Castle after organisers revealed the event’s original start and finishing points would make a return.

Bosses behind the run had been forced to change the route to allow for better social distancing during the Covid pandemic, but have been able to revoke the changes this year.

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Both the 5km and 10km events, which will be held from July 13-15, will start on Saddler Street and finish on Palace Green, as was the way since launching in 2016 up until the 2019.

This runner in 2018 even dressed up as the Cathedral to take on the challenge. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Gateshead-born Olympian Steve Cram who founded the Durham City Run Festival said: “We’re over the moon to be returning to Palace Green for the 5K and 10K finish line. It’s an absolutely stunning location and while the final climb up the hill might test tired legs, we know that our runners loved crossing the finishing line beneath Durham Cathedral and Castle.”

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Themed runs including Horrible Histories-inspired events, urban orienteering, and a family run hosted by Olympic gold medallist and three-time London Marathon winner Paula Radcliffe are also on the cards.

Runners will return to Saddler Street for the starting point of the run this year. (Image: PR)

The Durham BRASS festival will also be held on the same weekend bringing live music to the city centre.

Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for economy and partnerships, added: "The Durham City Run Festival is always a favourite and its return to the iconic Palace Green will make for the best kind of photo finish.

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“Once again, it will coincide with Durham BRASS Festival and hosting this kind of combination of events brings the potential to pull in lots of visitors with all sorts of interests.

The finish line was moved due to the Covid pandemic to allow for social distancing. (Image: PAUL NORRIS)

“These are just two of the many great cultural events taking place in County Durham this year. There’s certainly plenty to look forward to and we’re really looking forward to welcoming people and seeing them have a great time.”

Wannabe runners can enter for a place on Durham City Run Festival events now online by visiting the Durham City Run website.