Liverpool is bracing for its biggest-ever running event this Sunday, March 15, as a record-breaking 15,000 runners prepare to descend on the city for the 33rd staging of the BTR Liverpool Half Marathon.
The 2026 edition marks a historic turning point for the race, featuring a move to a high-profile new start line at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, the brand-new home of Everton Football Club.
With the event expanding by an additional 3,000 places this year, which sold out in just one hour, the city is expecting a massive influx of visitors.
Runners from over 25 countries, including Brazil, Thailand, and Ukraine, are flying in to take part, providing a significant boost to the local hospitality and tourism economy.
New Route and Later Start Time
To accommodate the record numbers, organisers BTR Liverpool have implemented a later start time of 9:30 AM, giving participants extra time to reach the new waterfront stadium.
While the finish line remains at the iconic Pier Head under the gaze of the Liver Birds, the first four miles of the course have been completely revised.
Runners will now take in a more scenic city-centre loop, passing landmarks like Liverpool Town Hall, the Chinese Arch, and Liverpool Cathedral.
The later stages of the race have also been adjusted, swapping Otterspool Promenade for a route through Sefton and Princes Parks before a grandstand finish at the waterfront.
Running for a Cause
The North West Air Ambulance (NWAA) serves as the official charity partner for 2026.
The charity, which relies entirely on donations to fund its life-saving missions, already has nearly 100 runners signed up who have raised over £19,000.
BTR Founder Alan Rothwell expressed his excitement for the expanded event:
“This weekend, we welcome an incredible 15,000 runners and thousands of spectators to experience the biggest ever BTR Liverpool Half Marathon.
“The event is about to be taken to another level, and it’s extremely exciting for everyone involved.
“Whether runners are competing for a personal best, raising much-needed funds for charities, or running socially, they all have one thing in common.
“They are getting out there, staying fit and active, and that’s something we definitely should applaud.”
Local Legends and Senior Stars
The 2026 race features some truly inspiring participants, including ever-present runners Jamie Doolan and Stephen Symons, who have completed every single one of the previous 32 Liverpool Half Marathons.
The event also proves that age is no barrier to performance.
The half-marathon features 80-year-old Sue Nicholls from Somerset, while the 10-mile race, which starts alongside the main event, welcomes 85-year-old Tracy Davidson and 86-year-old Jacqui Coyle.
Important Travel and Closure Information
With 15,000 competitors on the move, residents and visitors are urged to plan ahead. Significant road closures will be in place:
- 4:00 AM: Initial closures around the Hill Dickinson Stadium and Pier Head.
- 8:30 AM: Full route closures implemented.
- 1:30 PM: The Strand and Upper Parliament Street (North-bound) will remain closed later than previous years to accommodate the larger field.
- 3:00 PM: All roads expected to be reopened.
Arriva North West will operate shuttle buses from Liverpool ONE to the start line from 6:30 AM to 9:00 AM for a £2 fare, while Merseyrail is running early services on the Northern and Wirral lines to get runners to the start on time.
