The Great Birmingham Run event is more than ‘just’ a race – it’s a full-on carnival of running, and we can’t get enough.
Brum’s biggest (and best) running event attracts entries from all over the Midlands thanks to its pumping soundtrack, phenomenal support and unique route blending city streets and green spaces. So whether you’ve signed up for the iconic half marathon, the crowd-pleasing 10K or our Junior and Mini races, you’re guaranteed to find your happy place. Brummie Runners do it better!
Read our runner’s guide to Birmingham below.
Why we love Birmingham (and you will too)
What do the Bullring, Edgbaston and Cannon Hill Park all have in common? Well, you’ll find them all – and plenty more besides – in Britain’s Second City, aka Brum.
Birmingham offers a little bit of everything – busy pavements, calm canal paths and acres of pretty parkland. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for street art, cobbles and industrial landmarks sitting alongside sleek modern architecture.
Heading to Birmingham for a Great Run event? You’re a lucky duck. Expect the warmest of welcomes, a street-shaking soundtrack and a sea of charity vests guaranteed to bring a tear to your eye.
Must-Run Routes
Cannon Hill Park. Home to a weekly Parkrun, Cannon Hill Park is a green oasis at the heart of this bustling city. For a pleasant and flat-ish 5K, start at the Cannon Hill model train station then head around the canoe pool. Go past the amphitheatre and boating lake before finishing off with a simple out and back along the river. It’s a Brummie Runner favourite for a very good reason.
Canalside Cruise. There’s just something so zen about running near water. Start at Gas Street Basin and head half a mile to Old Turn Junction. Keep left and keep going along the Birmingham Canal Old Line. It’s flat, quiet and gets more peaceful the further you go. The only decision you need to make? When to turn around and head back.
City Centre Sightseeing. From Cathedral Square head for Cherry Street; then, where Union Street joins High Street, keep right until you hit New Street. Spot the Bullring before taking a right and continue through Victoria Square and Chamberlain Square to Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. Take Fletcher’s Walk to Centenary Square until you reach the canal, then follow the towpaths out past Symphony Hall, Brindley Place and the Gas Street Basin. At Symphony Court, cross the river to squeeze in a glimpse of St Paul’s Church before finishing off this fantastic sightseeing loop.
Reservoir Running. Edgbaston Reservoir is a sparkling body of water built in 1827 to top up Birmingham’s canal network. Surrounded by woodland and nature and home to sailing and boat clubs, it’s the perfect spot for a flat, fast, fuss-free 5k. Try two laps or just one with an added loop around the paths of Summerfield Park.
Find your (running) tribe
As one of the UK”s most diverse cities, Birmingham is vibrant, friendly and super welcoming – and that applies to its running scene, too. You won’t have to look far to find a running group that feels just like home, whether you’re just starting out or a pro chasing a new PB.
Looking for recommendations for a friendly Brummie running club? We’ve got plenty, from groups with a focus on speed to those more focused on inclusion and mental health. Take a look.
When in Birmingham…
Brunch and coffee goals. Wayland’s Yard on Bull Street serves specialty coffee and incredible modern diner food – think drool-worthy eggy crumpets and hash brown florentines. Damascena does delicious middle eastern food across five Brummie locations, while Loaf in Stirchley does proper bread, pastries, cakes and a simple-yet-delicious lunch menu. Check opening times before you head over.
Treat yourself. Up & Running on Colmore Row has everything you need – free gait analysis, knowledgeable staff and no pushy sales talk. Keep an eye on their socials for local run calendars and latest stock updates.
Fun and free. Ikon Gallery in Brindleyplace is the place to be for modern art fans, while Birmingham Library is a must for book and architecture lovers. Shopaholic? Get your retail fix at the Custard Factory or Great Western Arcade. We’ve already mentioned taking a stroll (or a run) through Cannon Hill Park or alongside the canals, but Lickey Hills is well worth a visit. Feeling brave? Maybe bring your trainers and try the 9km circular loop.
So there you have it: just a few of the reasons why we love Birmingham. Need an excuse to make a trip? Check out the Great Birmingham Run (+ Junior and Mini events).
Last updated: 08 February 2026.
