AJ Bell Great Scottish Run 2025 Review — My Honest Experience
What is the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run?
The AJ Bell Great Scottish Run is one of Scotland’s biggest annual running events, held every October in Glasgow. It features both a 10 K and a Half Marathon, attracting tens of thousands of runners from across the UK.
The course takes you through some of the city’s best-known landmarks — from George Square at the start, down through Pollok Park, past cheering crowds on Paisley Road West, and finally across the Clyde Arc Bridge for a grand finish at Glasgow Green.
It’s a brilliant mix of city sights, community spirit, and that electric Scottish energy you only get at home events.
What I Loved About the Great Scottish Run
There’s so much to love about this event — it’s not just about the miles, it’s about the people and the atmosphere.
Highlights for me:
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The community feeling — you’re surrounded by runners of all levels, all cheering each other on.
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The supporters — families, locals, and volunteers line the streets with banners, clapping, and encouragement every step of the way.
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Children handing out sweets — a simple touch but one that genuinely keeps you smiling through the miles.
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Live bands and music — from bagpipes to pop, the sound keeps your energy up throughout.
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So many toilets! — might sound daft, but it’s something every runner appreciates.
It’s the kind of race where you genuinely feel part of something special.
What I Didn’t Love
Every race has its downsides, and for me there were a few small frustrations:
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The start line was packed — it was difficult to find space or pace properly for the first couple of kilometres.
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Photographers and finish-line photos were disappointing — angles and timing didn’t quite capture the moment.
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Food options at the finish were limited and mostly unhealthy — after a big run, I’d have loved better recovery choices.
Still, these are minor points in what was otherwise a fantastic event.
Would I Do It Again?
Absolutely. I’ve already signed up for next year. The buzz, the support, and that Glasgow atmosphere make it too good to miss.
It’s a race that makes you proud to be part of the Scottish running community.
What I Wore on the Day
For those wondering about kit and comfort, here’s what worked for me:
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Shoes: Nike Vomero Plus
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Belt: STRYQ Running Belt (perfect for gels, phone, and keys)
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Socks: More Mile London
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Shorts & T-shirt: Boohoo MAN Running Range
Everything performed spot on. The STRYQ Running Belt didn’t move an inch and was ideal for carrying fuel without bounce.
Fuel I Took Along
Keeping things simple:
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A few jelly babies tucked in the STRYQ belt
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500 ml bottle mixed with SIS electrolytes
That combo kept energy steady without stomach issues.
My 4-Week Training Build-Up (10 K → Half Marathon)
Here’s how I built my mileage realistically while running three times a week:
|
Week |
Run 1 |
Run 2 |
Run 3 |
|
Week 1 |
6 K easy pace |
8 K steady |
10 K long run |
|
Week 2 |
8 K easy |
10 K with intervals (5×1 min hard / 2 min easy) |
12 K long run |
|
Week 3 |
10 K easy |
12 K tempo (steady effort) |
15 K long run |
|
Week 4 |
12 K easy |
15 K with 5 K at race pace |
21 K long run (half marathon distance) |
It’s manageable, realistic, and keeps training enjoyable without injury risk.
Final Thoughts
The AJ Bell Great Scottish Run truly captures what’s best about running in Scotland — community, music, laughter, and shared achievement.
Despite the busy start and a few post-race gripes, the event’s atmosphere more than makes up for it. For anyone thinking about taking part next year — do it.
You don’t need to be the fastest. You just need to show up, run your own race, and enjoy every minute of it.