
03 Dec 2024
Taking place in May, the Great Manchester Run is a staple event in the city’s calendar that really encompasses that Northern community spirit. Comprising both a 10k race and a half marathon, it is the third largest mass participation running event in the UK and takes in landmarks such as Old Trafford, the Etihad Stadium and the Imperial War Museum. This year, organisers are promising that the event will be bigger and better than ever, with everything from live music to DJ sets encouraging the runners to smash their personal targets. Whether it’s the perfect restaurants for a post-run refuel, or the best spectator spots, we’ve pulled together a handy guide for both runners and supporters to make the most of the day.
After waving goodbye to your loved ones as they pace the pavements of Manchester for the next hour or two, why not head to Bundobust while you wait? Opened last year, the Bundobust Brewery is only a stone’s throw down the road from the busy start line, serving Indian street food and local craft beer in a welcoming communal space. With its menu of bhajis, dahl and other vegetarian staples, the restaurant is hugely popular thanks to its winning combination of small plates and beer brewed right on its doorstep. The taproom itself seats 150 diners, so it’s also the perfect spot to gather family and friends for a post-run celebration.
Situated under the railway arches of Deansgate station, Atlas Bar is a prime viewing spot to watch the race go by. From your position on the corner next to the Bridgewater viaduct, you’ll be able to not only spot the runners at the beginning of their race, but also witness their sprint down the home stretch onto Deansgate. The bar itself proudly boasts the largest gin offering in Manchester, with over 500 different tipples from around the world. Foodwise, there’s a range of classic British grub, including pies, sandwiches and even a Ploughman’s platter. Once the run has passed, step outside into the south-facing beer garden to soak up some of that May sunshine while you wait.
Fancy something healthy as your pre-run energy boost or post-run recharge? Located in the grand Royal Exchange Arcade, The Remedy Kitchen is devoted to its belief that eating smartly is the best thing we can do for both our physical and mental wellbeing. Offering something wholly unique on the city’s foodie scene, the menu here is 100 per cent free from gluten, dairy, wheat and refined sugar – although it certainly doesn’t compromise on taste with the likes of seared sea bass, teriyaki steak and buddha bowls. The founders of The Remedy Kitchen have an extensive background in nutrition and fitness, making it the perfect spot to visit on the day of the Great Manchester Run.
Regardless of whether you’re doing the half marathon or the 10K, this year’s run finishes on Deansgate – a mere 10 seconds down the road from Jimmy’s Killer Prawns. If you’ve just completed the race, you’ll be craving carbs and protein which are two fronts that the Castlefield joint wholeheartedly delivers on. Dating back to 1991, Jimmy’s first opened in South Africa with the dream of serving huge platters of grilled prawns to the masses, before quickly becoming a global franchise. Choose from endless platters and combinations of the ‘killer’ prawns, with a variety of seafood ready to be peeled apart with your bare hands and dunked in the special sauces. Bulk your meal out with chips, onion rings or signature Jimmy’s rice for the ultimate post-run carb fest.
Once you’ve conquered the run, meet your friends and family to celebrate at the event village, which is hosted in the courtyard outside Great Northern. The ‘Apres Run’ zone promises an afterparty atmosphere with music, medals and food stalls. Located in the Warehouse itself is Cibo, an independent Italian eatery serving an indulgent menu of Neapolitan pasta and pizza – ideal for post-run refuelling. The restaurant is most famous for its Instagram-worthy pasta dishes, made table-side in a flaming wheel of parmesan cheese. Set across four floors, you’re bound to find a seat in the huge space, despite the crowds outside.
We all know that post-run recovery starts with protein so where better to hit than a steakhouse? Around the corner from the finish line, Fazenda is an upmarket Brazilian bar and restaurant in the heart of Spinningfields, where guests can enjoy the full rodizio experience. Keeping tradition alive with an all-you-can-eat menu, over 15 cuts of grilled meats are carved at the table, accompanied by a bountiful selection of sides. By using the double-sided card to control the flow of the table-side service, you can celebrate in style with a unique dining experience and a sophisticated selection of Argentinian and Brazilian wines.