Tens of thousands of people will be taking part in the Great North Run this weekend, with many more lining the route to cheer along their loved ones.

With road closures as well as limited parking, public transport is the best way to get to or from the  world famous half marathon for both runners and spectators.

There will be extra bus services, Metro trains and Shields Ferry trips throughout the day to help people get around as quickly and easily as possible.

The race start is about a 15-minute walk from Haymarket in Newcastle city centre.

  • There’s a Metro station and bus station at Haymarket, as well as buses going to nearby Eldon Square bus station and many on-street bus stops.
  • Shuttle bus services will also be running to Haymarket (St Mary's Place and Percy Street) and Barras Bridge from the finish area in South Shields.
  • Parking is free all day on Sundays at the Metro stations marked with a ‘P’ on the Metro map (except at Heworth, which is £3 all day).

Metro trains, buses and traffic will be extremely busy, so people are advised to leave plenty of time to get to the race start.

Advice for spectators

Those who wish to see friends or relatives take part in the run are advised to choose just one place to see them - at the race start in Newcastle, or somewhere on the route, or at the race finish in South Shields.

Organisers say it is almost impossible to see a runner in more than one location, as public transport will be very busy, and because it takes time to reach the race route itself from Metro stations and bus stops.

Heading to the race finish

  • Take the Metro from Haymarket or Monument to South Shields - there will be a train every 7½ minutes once the race has started.
  • Shuttle bus services will also be running from Haymarket (St Mary's Place and Percy Street) and Barras Bridge to the finish area.
  • Shields Ferry will operate extra crossings between North Shields and South Shields and will start at 7.45am. 

Get more content including the stories that matter to your community from The Northern Echo for just £3 for 3 months for a limited time only here.

Most read:

 

Race finish - South Shields: Getting home from the race finish

Metro, the Shields Ferry and buses will be very busy due to the number of people travelling, so please expect a significant wait on the way home.

People are urged to avoid the queues by having a meal or drink in South Shields before heading home.

  • South Shields Metro station is about a 15 minute walk from the finish line - there will be a train every 7½ minutes after the race.
  • Shuttle bus services will run to Newcastle and South Shields 
  • Shields Ferry between South Shields and North Shields will operate extra crossings and will run until 6pm.