There's just under seven weeks before the AJ Bell Great Bristol Run returns on Sunday 19 May for another spectacular celebration of running in this famous maritime city. The event is one of the UK's most popular and has been part of the city since 1989, but every year it gets better.

The super-scenic 10K and Half Marathon routes take in Bristol’s best landmarks, but it’s not just the inspiring views that attract runners from far and wide. The start line excitement, pumping on-course music zones, and post-race celebrations create an unbeatable atmosphere. Great Run organisers are pulling out all the stops to make this year’s event the best yet, so here are eight reasons why it should be on your 2024 must-do list:

1. The incredible route
Starting and finishing in the heart of the city, runners will experience some of Bristol’s most iconic landmarks including the historic harbourside, Castle Park, Avon Gorge, and Queen Square. Get ready to experience the best running event in the South West!

2. Local support
The atmosphere and support during the Great Bristol Run are unrivalled, and one of the reasons that runners keep coming back. Along with official charity cheering points, local supporters come out in their thousands to roar runners across the finish line and applaud them to the Event Village once they’ve conquered the challenge.

3. Inspirational runners
This is a run for everyone, of all ages and abilities. Everyone taking part is an inspiration – whether they’re running to hit a fitness goal, to do something incredible for charity, to hear thousands of strangers cheering them on, or simply for fun. This year, Great Bristol Run is celebrating the ‘Power of Running’ – highlighting the transformative impact running has on individuals and communities. Keep an eye on Great Run's social channels to hear extra special running stories ahead of the event.

4. Bouncing entertainment zones
Last year saw some exciting new additions to keep the course bouncing and runners pumped until the finish line – and this year is no different! There are five bands on the run, including the high-energy Ilu Axe and Bristol Samba bands. The much-loved drag queen, Miss Jam Tart, will also be back at the ‘Karaoke Kicks’ entertainment zone.

5. Make it a family affair
It’s not all about the adults on race day. This year’s Great Bristol Family Run is set to be the biggest ever and, for the first time, there will be a mascot race taking place ahead of the kids’ event – where else could you see a giant tortoise battle it out with Bristol Bears’ Brizzley Bear and Wallace and Gromit for first place?

6. An impressive medal
Elements of the city inspire this year’s medals. The front of the 10K and half marathon medals include the Flower of Bristol as the main focal point. On the back, some landmarks along the route have been highlighted, including the towers of the Clifton Suspension Bridge and waves for the River Avon. We featured the new medals in this recent runABC South report.

7. VI Challenge
The event stages the UK’s only dedicated Visually Impaired 10K and in partnership with VI Runners Bristol aims to promote participation in running for people registered as severely sight impaired. Whether you’re taking part as a VI runner or cheering them on, it’s an inspirational event to be part of.

8. Post-race party
After crossing the famous finish line the next stop is the Apres Run zone, and it’s time to celebrate conquering your 10K or half marathon challenge. Runners, families, and friends can kick back, relax, and enjoy the post-race celebrations with a live DJ turning up the feelgood factor!

Bristol comes alive on race day and there’s still time to sign up and be part of the action. So challenge yourself and be part of something special on Sunday 19 May...

Find out more and enter here...

Previous results and reports at the runABC South race listing here.

Photos courtesy The Great Run Company