The Great North Run 2023 taking place across the North East is now only weeks away as we welcome the month of August.

The half-marathon is the largest in the world and has been an annual event since 1981, when only 12,000 runners participated.

This year, there will be a special guest taking part as Olympic champion Sir Mo Farah will run his final ever competitive race at the Great North Run.

As the build-up begins, this is what we know so far from start times, the route, where the finish line is and the rules around baggage facilities for competitors.

When is the Great North Run 2023 and where is the start line?

The Great North Run this year will take place on Sunday, September 10 and it will start at around 10.45am from the Central Motorway, near the Town Moor, reports Time Outdoors.

Where is the finish line for the Great North Run 2023 and what is the distance?

After a distance of 13.1 miles from Newcastle city centre, continuing towards the River Tyne and crossing over the famous Tyne Bridge before heading through Gateshead, the run will finish at South Shields seafront.

What is the route for the Great North Run 2023?

Those taking part in the Great North Run can expect the same route from last year, according to the Great North Run website.

They will start on the A167 next to the Town Moor and then follow the road east going around Newcastle city centre as they make their way over the Tyne Bridge and into Gateshead.

From this part of the route, they will then take a left turning onto Park Lane until they reach Leam Lane.

Runners will then follow this road through South Tyneside before reaching a roundabout which will direct them onto John Reid Road and Prince Edward Road as they make their way along the final stretch (just over a mile) along the Coast Road in South Shields.

Is there parking at the Great North Run 2023?

Although official parking for the Great North Run is yet to be released, last year Newcastle City Council offered its nine multi-storey car parks, 52 off-street car parks and around 2,200 street parking bays for people to use.

It could be the same setup this year but it’s important to check with the council when you plan your journey for the Great North Run.

More information including about where they are and how much they cost can also be found on the website.

What are the baggage rules on the day of the Great North Run 2023?

There will be baggage facilities on the day of the Great North Run, however, more details about the location will be added to the specific event page, explains the Great North Run website.

It adds: “Before leaving your belongings in the baggage facility, make sure you fill in your baggage label by removing it from your run number and attaching it to your bag. 

“To gain access to the baggage area and to collect your bag you will need to show your run number.

“Please don’t leave valuables in your bag – this will be a self-service system and although security staff will be present, organisers can’t accept any responsibility for lost or stolen items.”