AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great North Run
Scroll To:
The AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great North Run is SOLD OUT.
The AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great North Run takes place on closed roads around the Newcastle Gateshead Quayside, making it a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants. Minis aged 3-8 take on a daring 1.2km dash, while Juniors aged 9-16 tackle a 4km supercharged sprint.
There’s nothing quite like the amazing sight of over 10,000 happy, smiling, active kids taking part for fun, for charity, for a challenge, and earning a very special medal for their efforts. With plenty of encouragement and high-fives from the crowds, it’s an action-packed day with an atmosphere like no other. Expect an iconic riverside route, photo opportunities, fancy dress, fundraising and lots of family fun.
Stars of the UK hit show Gladiators will be the official starters for this year’s event. They’ll be on hand to ring the famous starters bell and cheer on our young runners – stay tuned to find out which Gladiators will be coming to the start line.
Mini runners (age 3 – 8) must be accompanied by an adult around the course. Junior runners (age 9-16) have the option of running by themselves or with a Parent/Guardian. Accompanying adults who are running are required to wear the specific accompanying adult bib, which is attached to the child’s run number.
2026 Junior Reminder
If you missed out on a Junior place this year, sign up below for updates and we’ll notify you when 2026 entries open. We’ll also provide you with useful running information and guidance, special offers, training advice, top tips, and exclusive Great Run Series event updates (you can unsubscribe at any time).
What makes it great?
Safe and secure route on closed roads
Plenty of cheers & high fives from local supporters
T-shirt for kids to run in and shiny finisher's medal
On course entertainment including bands on the run
Lots of photo opportunities including official event photos to purchase
Unforgettable finish line experience
Event village with exhibitors, food and drinks to enjoy post-run
Event Timetable: 6 September 2025
Please note: this is a provisional timetable and is subject to change.
Mini 50
50 Metres | (3-16 years)
The Mini 50 is a 50m course for children (3-16 yrs) who wouldn’t ordinarily be able to participate in the Junior and Mini age group events, due to their specific needs. Starting 50 metres from the finish-line, towards the millennium bridge, the course is flat and includes all the infrastructure of the Mini and Junior event.
The event will take place on the Newcastle side of the Quayside, starting 50 metres from the finish-line, towards the millennium bridge. The course is flat and includes all the infrastructure of the Mini and Junior event. All participants will receive a run number and t shirt in the post before the event and a medal at the finish line on event day.
To enter, please complete the form below. If you have any queries about the event please email mini50@greatrun.org.
Wheelchair Access
The course is suitable for wheelchair users and we will have a dedicated wheelchair start on the 1.2K course. Participants in a self-propelled wheelchair will be automatically allocated to this wave, other wheelchair participants have the option to go into this wave, or take part in the age specific mass waves. The route will involve going over the Millennium Bridge, involving an adverse camber, so those choosing to participate may want to do so accompanied by an adult support runner – all participants should take special care on sections that might be tricky at high speed.
It's Fun to Run
Find Runner Photos
The Course
Please note: Course may be subject to change.
All runners will start by crossing the Swing Bridge. Junior runners will then do an out and back section towards the Redheugh Bridge, before re-joining the Mini route that heads along the Gateshead Quayside, past the Sage Gateshead and the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art. All participants will then run across the Millennium Bridge before their big finish on the Newcastle Quayside, near the Law Courts.
Event Village
Don’t miss the Event Village. You’ll find a range of exhibitors for everyone to enjoy, including food and drink stalls and fun activities for children. Be sure to pop along to check out the stands.
