• MCR MARATHON: All the food and drink you can get for free if you finish the race

MCR MARATHON: All the food and drink you can get for free if you finish the race

11 April 2026 by Rhiannon Ingle

The 2026 Manchester Marathon takes place on Sunday, April 19th. As the UK's second-largest marathon, it features over 42,000 participants running a 26.2-mile course, starting at Chester Road and finishing near the University of Manchester. And those dozens of thousands of dedicated runners will be able to enjoy a bunch of freebies and discounts around the city, so read on to see what you can get if you finish the stretch...

THE GROSVENOR

The Grosvenor is hosting an unofficial Manchester Marathon after-party on Sunday, with free drinks for finishers. Runners who show their medal can claim a complimentary pint of BrewDog Cold Beer. There’s also a first taste of Jägermeister Orange, with free samples available on the day. Set close to the start and finish line, it’s an easy spot to wind down, with entertainment, giveaways, and a lively post-race crowd.

CHOTTO MATTE

Chotto Matte Manchester is marking the Manchester Marathon with a free drink for finishers. On Sunday, runners can head to Claude’s Skyview Bar between 12pm and 6pm and claim a complimentary pint of Manchester Union Lager or a glass of prosecco. Just show your marathon medal at reception to receive a token. Walk-ins only, with the offer valid at Claude’s Skyview Bar.

BUNNY JACKSON’S
Manchester’s go-to dive bar for loud nights, big burgers, dirty fries and sport on screen. Expect live music, American beers, whiskey and cocktails with zero subtlety. Finishers get 20% off drinks if they show their medal.

MANCOCO COFFEE BAR
Set in the Hewitt Street railway arches just off Deansgate, this speciality coffee roaster serves carefully sourced beans from around the world in a laid-back setting. Finishers get 10% off drinks if they show their medal.

YES MANCHESTER
A multi-level Charles Street venue built for live music, food and drinks. Relaxed, social and geared for affordable nights out with a steady flow of events. Finishers get a free slice of pizza with every pint if they show their medal.

BUNDOBUST
Modern Indian street food meets craft beer, with sharing plates and house brews in a casual, high-energy space. Finishers get 20% off food and drink if they show their medal.

SAFFA SOUL
South African soul food rooted in family recipes passed down through generations, serving comfort dishes with a personal touch. Finishers get a free chicken or veggie roll if they show their medal.

DISHOOM
A tribute to the old Irani cafés of Bombay, serving Indian-inspired dishes in a warm, walk-in friendly setting where everyone’s welcome. Finishers get a free Kingfisher Beer if they show their medal.

GAUCHO
Argentinian steakhouse offering premium cuts in a polished dining space. Running a limited post-marathon celebration window for finishers. Finishers get a free steak (Sirloin 300g, Ribeye 300g or Fillet 200g) if they show their medal.

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