The TCS London Marathon is one of the world’s most prestigious running events and a highlight of London’s sporting calendar. Whether you’re planning to run, spectate, or simply experience the incredible atmosphere, here’s everything you need to know about the 2026 edition.
Date and Time
- Date: Sunday, April 26, 2026
- Start Time: The marathon typically begins in the morning, with exact start times varying for different categories. Participants should refer to official communications closer to the event for precise timings.
How to Enter
Securing a spot in the London Marathon can be competitive due to its popularity. Here are the primary entry methods:
1. Public Ballot Entry
The public ballot is a lottery system open to all applicants, though competition is fierce with around 840,000 people typically applying for approximately 17,000 ballot places.
- Application Opens: Friday, April 25, 2025
- Application Closes: Friday, May 2, 2025 (one week window)
- Results Announced: June-July 2025
- Entry Fee: UK residents pay £79.99, or £49.99 if you donate your entry fee (which also gives you a second chance in a separate ballot)
- International Entry: £225+ for non-UK residents
Pro Tip: Donating your entry fee doubles your chances while supporting a good cause!
2. Charity Entry
Running for charity is the easiest way to guarantee entry, with around half of all participants securing their place this way.
- Charities have limited guaranteed entries in exchange for fundraising commitments
- Typical fundraising targets range from £1,500-£3,000+
- Many charities provide training support, running kit, and coaching
- Contact charities directly to inquire about available spots
3. Good For Age Entry
For fast runners who have achieved specific qualifying times:
- Places Available: 6,000 total (3,000 men, 3,000 women)
- Qualifying Window: October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2025
- Application Period: October 2-30, 2025
- For UK residents only
- Example times: Men aged 18-39 need sub-2:55:00; women need sub-3:40:00
Meeting the qualifying time allows you to apply but doesn’t guarantee entry, as places are allocated fastest-first.
4. Championship Entry
For elite club runners in the UK with times of 2:38:00 (men) or 3:10:00 (women). Limited to 1,200 places.
5. International Tour Operators
Approved tour operators offer all-inclusive packages including race entry, accommodation, and sightseeing, perfect for international visitors combining the marathon with a London trip.
6. Virtual Entry
Can’t make it to London? Complete the 26.2 miles on your own route on race day between 00:00-23:59:59 BST.
The London Marathon Route
The 26.2-mile course takes runners past some of London’s most iconic landmarks:
- Start: Three separate colour-coded start areas in Blackheath
- Mile 7: The historic Cutty Sark in Greenwich
- Miles 12-13: Tower Bridge – the most photographed and scenic point
- Miles 15-19: Canary Wharf financial district
- Mile 23: St. Paul’s Cathedral
- Miles 24-25: Views of the London Eye and Parliament
- Finish: The Mall, with the final stretch past Buckingham Palace
The course is relatively flat with just 419 feet of elevation gain, making it one of the faster major marathons.
For Spectators: How to Support
The London Marathon is famous for its incredible crowd support, with over 750,000 spectators lining the route. Here’s how to make the most of it:
Best Viewing Spots
- Tower Bridge (Mile 12-13): The most iconic spot with electric atmosphere
- Canary Wharf (Miles 15-19): Less crowded, easier to spot your runner
- The Embankment (Miles 23-25): Great for cheering runners through the tough final miles
- The Mall (Finish): The ultimate finish line experience
Getting Around on Race Day
- Public transport is FREE with a race bib for runners
- Roads are closed throughout central London – plan your journey in advance
- The London Marathon app allows you to track runners in real-time
- Multiple Tube stations provide access to different points along the route
What to Expect on Race Day
For Runners
- Race Kit Collection: Visit the London Marathon Expo at ExCeL London (Wednesday-Saturday before the race) to collect your bib and timing chip
- Bag Drop: Official bags are provided at the Expo; secure storage is available at the start
- Hydration Stations: Water available every 2-3 miles
- Spectator Support: Over 750,000 spectators create an unforgettable atmosphere
- Finish Line: Receive your finisher’s medal, T-shirt, and goodie bag
For Visitors
The London Marathon transforms the city into a celebration of running, with incredible energy throughout central London. Even if you’re not running, it’s a fantastic spectacle to witness.
Where to Stay: Book accommodation early, especially if you want to stay near the start in Greenwich or the finish near The Mall. Many hotels offer special marathon packages.
What to Do: Combine your marathon experience with London sightseeing. Check out our guides to Planning Your Visit to the London Eye, Things to Do in London When It Rains, and other London attractions.
History of the London Marathon
Founded by former Olympic champions Chris Brasher and John Disley, the first London Marathon took place on March 29, 1981. Inspired by the New York City Marathon, they created what has become one of the six Abbott World Marathon Majors alongside races in New York, Boston, Berlin, Chicago, and Tokyo.
The event has raised over £1 billion for various causes since its inception, making it one of the largest annual fundraising events in the world. The 2025 race broke the Guinness World Record for most marathon finishers with over 55,000 participants.
Why Experience the London Marathon
As a Runner
- World-Class Event: One of the six Abbott World Marathon Majors
- Scenic Route: Pass London’s most famous landmarks
- Incredible Atmosphere: 750,000+ spectators providing non-stop support
- Fast Course: Relatively flat with only 419 feet of elevation gain
- Charity Fundraising: Be part of an event that’s raised over £1 billion for good causes
As a Spectator
- Free to Watch: No ticket required to watch from the streets
- Festival Atmosphere: Live music, entertainment, and activities throughout the route
- Inspiring: Witness incredible human achievement and determination
- Family-Friendly: A great day out for all ages
Planning Your Visit
If you’re traveling to London for the marathon, here are some helpful resources:
- Getting from Heathrow to Central London
- UK ETA Visa Requirements – Important for international visitors
- Where to Stay in London – Guide to London neighborhoods
Additional Information
- Training Plans: The London Marathon offers free 16-week training plans for beginners, improvers, and advanced runners
- Official Website: Check londonmarathonevents.co.uk for the latest updates
- Weather: April in London averages 8-15°C. Check forecasts as the event approaches
- Travel Insurance: Recommended for international participants
Whether you’re running for a personal best, raising money for charity, or simply soaking up the atmosphere as a spectator, the TCS London Marathon is an unforgettable London experience. The 2026 edition promises to be another historic event in this world-class city.
