Liverpool is set to host its largest-ever half marathon event this Sunday, 23 March 2025, as 12,000 runners take to the city’s streets for the 31st annual BTR Liverpool Half Marathon and the 10th consecutive 10 Mile Road Race. The half marathon reached its capacity of 11,500 participants eight weeks ago, while the 10-miler filled its 500 slots by early January, marking a significant increase from last year’s 9,000 entrants.
Event Details and Route
Both races will commence at 9:00 am from Liverpool’s iconic Pier Head, with runners embarking on courses that showcase some of the city’s most notable landmarks. The 13.1-mile half marathon route winds through areas including Upper Parliament Street, Princes Road, and Ullet Road, leading participants into Sefton Park. After navigating both the external roads and internal pathways of the park, runners will proceed along Otterspool Promenade, offering scenic views of the River Mersey, before returning to the Pier Head for the finish. The 10-mile race follows a similar path but features an earlier turnaround point within Sefton Park.
Charity Partnerships and Notable Participants
This year’s official charity partner is the North West Air Ambulance (NWAA), a service that has undertaken over 45,000 missions since its inception in 1999. Highlighting the charity’s impact, Georgia Addy, who was rescued by NWAA following a road accident nine years ago, will have the honour of officially starting the race before participating in the half marathon herself. She will be joined on stage by the Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor Richard Kemp, and Lady Mayoress Erica Kemp.
The event has also attracted a diverse array of participants, including a team of nearly 180 runners from New Balance and a contingent of 20 from Everton Football Club. Additionally, families and supporters of two children tragically lost in last year’s Southport incident are taking part to honour their memories and raise funds for related causes.
Community Engagement and Entertainment
The vibrant atmosphere of the event will be further enhanced by the return of Batala Mersey, a local drumming band, which will energise runners and spectators alike at both the start and finish lines. Numerous running clubs from across the region are also participating, underscoring the community’s strong support for the event.
Road Closures and Public Advisory
To accommodate the race, there will be road closures along the event route between 6:00 am and approximately 2:00 pm on Sunday. Notably, the northbound carriageway at the Liver Street junction will experience a temporary hold of 20-25 minutes starting from the race’s commencement at 9:00 am. Access to Water Street and Canada Boulevard will be restricted until around 1:00 pm. Residents and visitors are advised to plan their travel accordingly and consult local traffic updates for detailed information.
Alan Rothwell, Race Director of BTR Liverpool, expressed enthusiasm about the unprecedented turnout, stating that the event’s growth reflects participants’ appreciation for the race and its significance in the regional running calendar. He extended gratitude to all runners, volunteers, and supporters, emphasising the collective effort required to ensure a successful and enjoyable race day.
As Liverpool prepares for this landmark event, the city anticipates a day of athletic achievement, community spirit, and vibrant celebration, further cementing its reputation as a premier destination for major running events.
