Runners, spectators, and couch potatoes alike, listen up — Manchester’s famous Marathon is back with a bang this April. As the UK’s flattest major run, the course attracts over 24,000 runners (and huge crowds of supporters) year on year. This year, though, the event has partnered with sports giant Adidas, so the Marathon is set to be bigger and better than ever.

Even if you’re not much of a distance runner yourself, there’s a LOT of fun to be had joining the crowds of spectators and cheering on the runners from the side lines. (Let’s be clear: us Mancunians take cheering seriously.) Depending on where you choose to watch, you’ll be treated to live music, delicious grub and, of course, that famous friendly Mancunian atmosphere.

So, here are our top four ways to watch the adidas Manchester Marathon this April 16th, whether you’re planning to stay in, or head out and join the crowds.

Note: adidas Manchester Marathon are still in the process of confirming their activity route, so be sure to check their website for updates.

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On the side lines

So, you’ve decided to get out and cheer on the runners — great! We’ll be honest, though, not all the spectator spots on the route are created equal. Here are our favourites (and we’ll let you know why).

Source: www.ilovemanchester.com

City Centre (Deansgate)

The adidas Manchester Marathon is due to loop in the city centre, with runners heading past Deansgate and Castlefield at round the four- and five-mile mark respectively. We recommend bagging a good spot here early, as there are plenty of places to grab a bite to eat, and there is a higher chance of grabbing a good vantage point away from the busy starting line. Deansgate also benefits from several transport links like Deansgate train station, and the Deansgate-Castlefield tram stop, so it’s super easy to get to and from.

Our top tip? If you’re heading out to cheer on someone in particular, make sure you hold a distinctive sign, or wear something bright so they can spot you!

Source: www.altrincham.todaynews.co.uk

Altrincham

With runners heading through Altrincham at around the 16- and 17-mile mark, why not double your chances of spotting your favourite runner? With lots of places to eat and drink, and live music usually playing, Altrincham boasts arguably one of the best atmospheres on the route. Runners are also hitting the steepest part of the track at this stop and need all the encouragement they can get, so why not join the crowd, and give them a well-deserved boost?

Top tip: this is the furthest point from the start, so make sure you give yourself enough time to get there before the runners do!

Source: www.ilovemanchester.com

Chorlton-Cum-Hardy

The perfect spot to cheer on runners as they approach the finish line, Chorlton-Cum-Hardy is where runners surpass the 24-mile-mark. While the finish line tends to be a lot more packed, this is a happy medium of great atmosphere, and less footfall. With its own tram stop nearby, travel couldn’t be easier.

Top tip: Chorlton-Cum-Hardy is also a popular place to meet up with a runner after the Marathon, if you want to stay away from the extremely busy Athletes’ Village.

At home

Hey, we get it. If you don’t fancy braving the elements to cheer on the side-lines, don’t stress — here’s how you can catch the adidas Manchester Marathon from the comfort of your own home.

Source: @Marathon_Mcr

Live stream

Every year, the Manchester Marathon is live streamed from the official YouTube channel with added commentary and coverage of the finish line. Feet up, a brew, and the Manchester Marathon from your front room? Sounds good to us.

Whether you’re cheering from the pavement or your apartment, we’d love to hear about it. Let us know your plans over on our social media @mapartments_.