Great North Run

The Great North Run, Britain's largest half marathon, delivers an iconic northeastern English experience. The course travels from Newcastle through Gateshead to South Shields' coastal finish, offering industrial heritage views and stunning North Sea vistas. September's typically cool, often drizzly conditions provide classic British racing weather. The route's challenging profile includes the infamous hill at mile 11, testing runners before the rewarding descent to the seafront. Over a million spectators create Britain's most electrifying racing atmosphere, with Geordie accents offering uniquely enthusiastic encouragement. This point-to-point journey captures the northeast's working-class spirit, where community warmth contrasts with the sometimes harsh landscape.