Take a look at some of the historic sites and fascinating stories lining the 13.1 mile route from Newcastle to South Shields – all of them are supported by National Lottery players.

• Runners will begin alongside recently restored Exhibition Park
• Artefacts from Hadrian’s Wall, views of the solar system and mummies from ancient Egypt can all be found at the Great North Museum: Hancock
• Newcastle Cathedral is a sight that cannot be missed. Nine centuries of heritage are set to be brought to life
• Just down the road from the cathedral, the 13th-century Black Gate has been brought back in to use for a 21st-century audience
• The Amber Collection at the Side Gallery offers an incredible photographic glimpse into North East life. Reopened and digitised, its current exhibition turns the spotlight on the region’s shipbuilding heritage.
• Crossing the iconic Tyne Bridge, kittiwakes are likely to make an appearance. The furthest inland colony of gulls in the world are being celebrated by a Durham Wildlife Trust community project
• St Mary’s Heritage Centre, a Grade I listed church brought back into use as the perfect place to discover Gateshead’s past
• The route passes through Wardley, a village which was the focus of the Follonsby Miners Lodge Association’s project to share the heritage of coal mining with local schools
• The final stretch of the run provides fantastic views of the coastline – including National Lottery supported Souter Lighthouse and South Shields Volunteer Life Brigade
• Further along from the running route, and perhaps a great place to have a rest, are North Marine Park and South Marine Park – both of which are being restored thanks to National Lottery players.

Inspired by the Great North Run? Explore the Great North Greats database of sporting heritage, created with a £400,000 National Lottery grant to celebrate the race’s millionth runner in 2014.