Root & Run Club

Root & Run Club is a weekly social run based at The Pollen Club, and it's part of a bigger trend that's taken hold across Greater Manchester lately: running clubs as places to get fitter, make friends and find community, with the post-run stop back at the pub as much a part of it as the miles. It's a newer addition to the city's running scene, and it fits right into that social side of things.

The club is deliberately relaxed and accessible. The routes change from week to week and never stretch beyond 5K, so you don't need to be an experienced runner or own expensive gear to join. It's more about getting out and moving than hitting a personal best, which makes it a decent shout if you've been wanting to start running but aren't sure where to fit in.

Once the run is done, the social side takes over. Drinks and food from The Hatch at The Pollen Club do the midweek catch-up, and if you're in the mood for more, The Good Sauna nearby offers sauna sessions and cold plunges for those who fancy them. It's a proper Wednesday evening out, rather than just a quick loop around the block.

It runs every Wednesday from The Pollen Club, Treehouse Hotel, 14 Deansgate, M3 4LG. Meet at 5:45pm and set off at 6pm; it's free to join.