About the London Marathon

The TCS London Marathon is one of the six Abbott World Marathon Majors and widely regarded as one of the most iconic road races on the planet. Held each spring, it attracts tens of thousands of runners ranging from elite world-record chasers to first-time marathon runners raising money for charity. The atmosphere is unrivalled — the streets of London are packed with enthusiastic supporters from start to finish.

The Course at a Glance

The route covers 26.2 miles (42.2km) through some of London's most famous landmarks. The course is generally flat and fast, making it a popular choice for runners chasing a personal best.

  • Start: Three separate start areas in Greenwich and Blackheath
  • Miles 1–13: Through Greenwich, Woolwich, and along the Thames through Deptford and Bermondsey
  • Miles 13–19: Through Tower Hill, past the Tower of London and along the Embankment
  • Miles 19–26: Through Canary Wharf, back along the Embankment past Big Ben
  • Finish: The Mall, with Buckingham Palace behind you — one of the most celebrated finish lines in sport

Key Race Day Logistics

Getting to the Start

The start areas are best reached by train from central London — National Rail services run to Blackheath and Maze Hill stations. The London Marathon provides detailed travel information closer to race day. Do not attempt to drive; road closures make it impractical.

Bag Drop and Facilities

Bag drop lorries are located at each start area, organised by runner number. Collect your bag at the finish in the area around Horse Guards Parade. Toilet queues at the start can be very long — arrive early and be patient.

Aid Stations

Water and energy drinks (Lucozade Sport has historically been the official partner) are available at regular intervals throughout the course. Gels are typically provided at specific points — check the official race pack for exact locations and product details, as these change annually.

Training Considerations for London

London's race date typically falls in late April. This means your training block will run through the UK winter — expect cold, wet, and sometimes dark training runs. Key tips:

  • Build your long run gradually, peaking at 20–22 miles around three to four weeks before race day
  • Practise running on roads rather than trails to prepare your legs for the hard surface
  • Don't neglect your taper — two to three weeks of reduced volume before race day is essential
  • Train with the exact shoes, socks, and gear you plan to race in

Pacing Strategy

London is a fast course but it's easy to go out too hard due to the enormous crowd energy. Start conservatively — aim to run negative splits (the second half slightly faster than the first). Pacers are available for a range of finish times; running with a pacer group is one of the most effective strategies for first-timers.

Tips for Spectators

If you're watching a loved one run, plan your viewing spots carefully. Popular locations include:

  1. Cutty Sark (~mile 6) — a great early landmark and excellent crowd atmosphere
  2. Tower Bridge (~mile 13) — iconic and emotional halfway point
  3. Canary Wharf (~mile 18–19) — catch runners before the final push
  4. The Mall (finish) — the ultimate spot to cheer runners home

Use the official tracking app to follow your runner's progress in real time.

How to Enter

Entry to the London Marathon is via a public ballot that typically opens and closes in the spring of the preceding year. Charity places are also widely available if you're willing to fundraise. International runners can apply through travel partners. Places are competitive — apply early and have a backup plan.

Running London is a bucket-list experience. Plan well, run smart, and savour every single mile.