Bristol Half Marathon 2024: Road closures, times, route and where you can 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 10K runs on May 19. This year will also mark the 'biggest ever' Great Bristol Family Run, partnered by Bristol Children's Hospital charity, The Grand Appeal.

The Mascot Race will see some 'giant mascots' battle it out for first place at 8.45am on the day. Whether you're running or watching on, 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 pack, road closures, bag storage, and more - below.

Or you can view 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 stretch...

Read more: List of Bristol's 2024 running events including half marathon and night racing

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

This year some 15,000 runners are taking part in the day's race events. According to 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 hurry as they will be snapped up fast.

According to the event's official description: "Loved by Bristolians and beyond, the AJ Bell Great Bristol Run is known as the best in the South West – and for good reason. Each year, thousands of runners push their perseverance and passion to the limit and take on Bristol’s super-scenic 10k 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 hear the incredible local support all along the route, before a grandstand finish in Millennium Square.

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

The event timetable

This event timetable for Sunday, May 19, 2024 is correct at time of writing, however is subject to change.

• 8am - Information Point opens

• 8.30am - Start assembly arena opens

• 8.45am - Mascot Race

• 8.53am - Family Run warm-up

• 9am - Family Run starts

• 9.18am - 10K warm-up starts

• 9.25am - 10K Wheelchair start

• 9.28am - VI (visually impaired) Race starts

• 9.30am - 10K Fast-paced and Orange Wave start

• 9.42am - 10K Green Wave start

• 9.54am - 10K Pink Wave start

• 10.30am - Half Marathon warm-up start

• 10.40am - Half Marathon Orange Wave start

• 10.56am - Half Marathon Green Wave start

• 11.12am - Half Marathon Pink Wave start

What do the wave colours mean?

Your wave colour and start time can be found on your run number, which should arrive in the post around two weeks before the event. Once you've received it, you have everything you need for event day and you don't need to visit the Information Point to register on the day.

You simply attach your run number, which has your 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 to the start line on Anchor Road. You can find a start map here.

If you secured your entry to the run after 10am on Friday, May 10, your run number won't be posted out to you and must be collected from the Information Point. A warm-up artist will be on site to get all runners warmed up and stretched before the big event, and waves will set off separately to help regulate the flow of runners through the course.

What will be the route for runners?

The image below shows the route for runners in full. If you can't view it on this page, you can find it, as well as more maps, on the official event website.

Will there be road closures?

Event organisers suggest utilising public transport options available on the day and leave plenty of time to get to the start line, as there will be a number of road closures in place. A full list of these closures can be found via the official Great Bristol Run website here.

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

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

You can raise any concerns regarding the proposed road closures no later than May 15, 2024, and contact event organisers with regards to traffic queries, information about road closures and alternative routes, by emailing travelbristol@greatrun.org, or calling 0808 1644 654.

How can I get to the Great Bristol Run?

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

You can view a map of car parks in the city, created by the Great Bristol Run team here if you find you need to drive. And you can find out more information 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 queries, race pack collection or anyone who hasn't received their race number. It will be situated in a marquee branded with AJ Bell and will be located at Millennium Square on Saturday, May 18 (10am - 4pm) and Bristol Amphitheatre on Sunday, May 19 (8am-3.30pm).

Where can I store my things?

Baggage buses are located at the Amphitheatre. You'll need to ensure you remember which bus you use, and fill in your baggage label (the tear-off from your run number) before leaving the house, and secure this to your bag - you'll need your run number to gain access to the buses to drop off and collect your bag.

Can I sign up to the 2025 race yet?

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