To assist those unable to leave baggage at their accommodation or with friends and family we will again be operating a bag drop for the 2025 adidas Manchester Marathon. It’s an updated process to previous years as we have introduced a point-to-point route. Meaning bags will now be transported from Old Trafford to an area close to the finish. As always using the bag drop will add extra time to your day pre and post marathon, so please consider if this is the best option for you.

Here’s everything you need to know to ensure a smooth and stress-free bag drop experience.

Bag Drop Location & Opening Times:

The bag drop area is near the front of Manchester United’s Old Trafford Stadium, on Wharfside Way — approximately a 5-minute walk from the Start Access Area. If you plan to use this service, we recommend arriving at least 45 minutes before your designated Start Access time (please note this is earlier than the actual Start Access time).

What Can I Bring?

Participants can drop off one small bag, such as a backpack or rucksack, which must fit inside our waterproof bags (55cm x 45cm) provided on the day. Please bring only essential items and avoid large or bulky belongings.

As usual we will be taking the utmost care with your bags but cannot guarantee the safety and condition of items left with us.

How Does the Bag Drop Work?

1. Arrival: Head to the Start Access Area and Follow signage to the bag drop area.
2. Bag Collection: Volunteers will provide you with a see-through waterproof bag. Place your backpack or rucksack entirely inside and ensure it’s securely tied.
3. Drop-Off: Head to the lorry designated for your wave — each wave has access to at least two lorries. Lorries are divided into three sections (A, B, C), you can choose any letter, so please join the shortest line.
4. Identification: At drop-off, you’ll receive a wristband with a unique identifier matching the tag placed on your bag, helping us reunite you with your bag post-event.
5. Travel: Volunteers will load your bag onto the lorry, which will then be transported to the finish line.

 

 

Collecting Your Bag:

After completing the marathon, follow the signs to Bag Collection, same lorry number and the same lettered bay where you dropped off your bag, present your wristband to the volunteers, and they’ll retrieve your bag for you.

 

Extra Information:

• Lost Wristband? It’s important you keep hold of your wristband. If for any reason it gets misplaced — approach a volunteer or event official at the bag collection area for assistance.
• Recyclable Waterproof Bags: The provided waterproof bags are made from 90% sugarcane. You can recycle your bag post-event by removing the drawstrings or reuse it as you wish.

Need Alternative Bag Storage Options?

For participants seeking other luggage storage options around Manchester, services like LuggageHero, Bounce, and Radical Storage offer convenient solutions. Please note these are independent services and are not affiliated with the event.

We hope this new process helps make your day as smooth as possible. For further details, visit our full Bag Drop FAQs.

See you at the start line!