Manchester Marathon 2024: How to get to the start line and which Metrolink stop is closest for runners

The 2024 Manchester Marathon is coming to the streets of the city soon, and runners from across the country will be taking part. The event will also see thousands take to the streets to cheer on family and friends.

Getting around the city on marathon day can be tricky, with roads closed leading to disruption for cars and public transport. It is for this reason that being prepared is of vital importance.

One of the best, and recommended, ways of getting around the city on marathon day is by using the Manchester Metrolink system. There is, fortunately, plenty of useful information on this provided by Transport for Greater Manchester.

The start line of the 2023 Manchester Marathon is under the arch at White City Way on the A56. This is within the vicinity of several metrolink stops.

The closest stop to the start line is Old Trafford. This is a stop located on the Altrincham line and services operate every six minutes.

Alternatively, you can also take the Metrolink to either the Imperial War Museum or Trafford Bar. These will also put you in a close proximity with the start line, and from Imperial War Museum you'll be able to incorperate a nice 10/15 minute warm up walk.

Which stops should I use if I want to watch the runners in the Manchester Marathon?

As the route of the Manchester Marathon is so large, there are many stops along the line which you can use to get a good spot to watch. Transport for Greater Manchester provides a handy guide as to where along the route each stop will put you- see below for more information.

• Old Trafford/Trafford Bar – for the start line
• Deansgate Castlefield – After 4.5 miles
• Cornbrook – After 6 miles
• Wharfside/Imperial War Museum – After 7.5 miles
• Timperley – After 13.5 miles
• Altrincham – After 16 miles
• Brooklands – After 20.5 miles
• Sale – After 21.5 miles
• Stretford – After 23.5 miles
• Chorlton – After 24.5 miles
• Firswood – After 25 miles
• Trafford Bar/Old Trafford – for the finish line