Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon guide – everything you need to know
The 2025 Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon (RBLM) is nearly upon us, and with thousands set to flood the region, we thought we’d round up all the important information you need to know, from waves and start times to the route and more.
Getting underway this weekend, this year marks just the third-ever edition of the modern Leeds Marathon, which was set up in honour of Rhinos legend and MND champion Rob Burrow in 2023.
In addition to over 12,000 locals, marathon enthusiasts, fantastic fundraisers and casual runners alike taking part in the 2025 RBLM, there are set to be even more spectators expected to line the streets, so it’s best you’re all kept in the loop.
So, without further ado, here’s our comprehensive guide for the 2025 Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon.
What is the route?
Where else to start other than, well, with where the run will be starting?
Getting underway once again from the Headingley Stadium, the 26.2-mile slog will see Yorkshire’s finest pass through the busy student district, as well as around Golden Acre Park, towards Bramhope, around Otley, into the city centre and back.
You can see the full route map down below. There’s also an interactive version online that you can even link it up to your Strava, with all the details you need to know in terms of segments, elevation and more.
If you’re running it, you’ll also be glad to see that there are a total of eight different toilet stops and water stations, meaning you’ll have the opportunity to take any necessary breaks every few miles.
How to get there?
For those travelling to the start/finish line (yes, it finishes back at the iconic cricket ground too), it is advised that people avoid driving and use public transport where possible to avoid further congestion.
There will be regular trains and First Bus Leeds services, but for those driving into the area, there is the Stourton Park & Ride service with a bus direct to the stadium.
Upon arriving, the only way to access the start line on race day is via Gate G behind the western terrace of the cricket stadium off Kirkstall Road.
Spectator shuttles will also be running between Queenswood Drive and the two main spectator hubs: Adel and Otley. You can find out more details on where to watch HERE.
Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon waves and start times
Now, as for start times, participants will be set off in waves depending on their estimated finish time, which corresponds to the colour of their bib.
The event is set to get underway from 9am, with both of the first two waves (red and blue) set to have gotten underway by 9:30am; green wave is due to set off at 9:41am and yellow from 9:53am.
Meanwhile, those doing the half-marathon distance and fun runners will be starting at 10am. You can see the wave colours and their relevant finish times down below, and don’t worry, there will be pacers to help you stay on track.
| Marathon | Half marathon |
| BLUE: Sub-2:30–3:44 RED: 3:45-3:59 GREEN: 4-4:24 YELLOW: 4:25–4:49 PURPLE: 4hrs 50 – 7+ hours | BLUE: Sub 1:15–1:49 RED: 1:50-1:59 GREEN: 2-2:09 YELLOW: 2:10-2:29 PURPLE: 2:30-3+ hours |
Leeds Marathon road closures and travel advice
Now, it goes without saying that setting up a major marathon that spans all the way from Headingley to Leeds, passing through some of the busiest parts of West Yorkshire, involves quite a lot of logistical planning.
Luckily, Leeds City Council have worked closely with the event team to make the marathon route run as smoothly as possible whilst also trying to minimise the impact on traffic and general travel.
You can find a full breakdown of all the road closures for this year’s Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon down below.
It’s also worth noting that this will be the first Leeds Marathon to be run without Rob himself being pushed around by former teammate and close friend Kevin Sinfield, who famously carried him over the line in the debut event.
But since that inaugural and deeply emotional year, so many more people have been inspired to take on the challenge; for instance, Rob’s wife Lindsey will be running her second marathon in the space of weeks after taking on London in his memory.
Speaking to BBC Radio Leeds, 42-year-old Lindsey knows it’s going to be “physically and mentally hard”, especially since his passing, but knows he’ll be with her in spirit every step of the way.
Read more:
- A popular Leeds city centre venue has created a parkrun rival this summer
- Leeds crowned one of Europe’s ‘best’ cities alongside 17 other British places
- ‘You did us proud’ message issued following Leeds United’s promotion party
It really is more than enough to tug on the heartstrings and drum up the tears, but it’s also one of the most beautiful things that’s ever happened to Leeds.
So, for everyone taking on the Leeds Marathon to honour not just Rob Burrow but whoever they might be running it for, we wish you the best of luck and just know that you’ve already done him, us, yourselves and everyone else SO very proud.
Now go and smash it!
Featured Images — Run For All (supplied)