Manchester is one of the most diverse cities in the UK, with a long history of welcoming people from across the world and supporting the rights of marginalised groups.
As a city, Manchester prides itself on making sure there’s a place for everyone – and that includes runners, too.
So whether you’re a seasoned veteran or you’re just starting out, you’ll find a whole host of running groups in Manchester where you’ll be welcomed with open arms.
Use our list of Manchester’s friendliest running groups to find your perfect fit.
Mile Shy Club
The Mile Shy Club is perfect for beginners looking to build confidence as well as stamina. They host 10 running clubs across the Greater Manchester area, plus walking sessions and Couch to 5k programmes for those who need a little hand-holding. #MileShy is a not-for-profit, and invests all proceeds into getting people from all walks of life to try out running, especially those facing physical or mental health barriers. Their hashtag #NoOneGetsLeftBehind is about as inclusive as it gets and their website is packed with inspiring testimonials from people who have become keen runners despite the odds.
Find out more:https://www.mileshyclub.com/
Manchester Road Runners
Manchester Road Runners is one of the biggest running groups in the city and, with a history stretching back over 10 years, one of the oldest, too. It’s free, and there’s a 3k, 5k, 7.5k or 10k route option every week. They have a WhatsApp group you can join – the perfect way of keeping in touch for a group that places social connection and friendship high on the agenda. There’s always an invitation for a post-run pint and/or chat afterwards and lots of smiley photos on their Facebook and Instagram pages.
Find out more: http://www.manchesterroadrunners.com/
Run Wild MCR
Run Wild MCR describe themselves as “a running club and a community”, and over the last ten years they’ve raised a huge amount of money for charitable causes including homelessness. Anyone connected with the University of Manchester – staff, students or alumni – can join for free. They organise several runs a week during term time including a women’s only session and all kinds of social events going on from Laser Tag to pub crawls. All abilities welcome.
Find out more: https://www.facebook.com/RunWildMCR/?locale=en_GB
Manchester Frontrunners
You’ll definitely feel the friendliness at any Frontrunners – Manchester’s only dedicated group for LGBTQ+ runners and their allies – session. Everyone is welcome, and every first-time runner is paired with an experienced Frontrunner who’ll match your pace. They host three regular weekly runs, plus regularly travel to races and organise social events. They also have a colourful presence at Manchester Pride!
Find out more: http://manchesterfrontrunners.org.uk/
runtheworldMCR
Who runs the world? Manchester girls! Started in 2021, runtheworldMCR is a new-ish Salford-based running club by women for women. With a big focus on safety, mental health and friendship, their mantra is ‘no one is too slow’. runtheworldMCR has helped women in and around Salford get into running from a standing start, after injury and post-baby and seems to be going from strength to strength. There’s a small per-run or monthly fee and you can book online.
Find out more: https://www.runtheworldmcr.co.uk/
Manchester Harriers & Athletics Club
Let us know how you get on – we’d love to hear your Manchester running and training stories! Follow Great Run on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok and join the conversation online.
Loving running around Manchester? Sign up to our AJ Bell Great Manchester run here.
