Whether you’re tackling the 26.2-mile challenge or just braving the crowds to cheer on your loved ones, the London Marathon is a thrilling celebration of endurance, community, and charity. Expect a buzzing atmosphere, iconic landmarks and plenty of inspiration as thousands take on this legendary race.
Everything you need to know about the London Marathon 2025:
- Date: Sunday 27 April 2025
- Start times: Elite wheelchair race: from 8.50am. Elite women’s race: from 9.05am. Elite men and masses: from 9.35am
- Distance: 26.2 miles
- Start line: Blackheath
- Finish line: The Mall, Buckingham Palace
- Meet and greet area: Horse Guards Parade near The Mall
- Weather: April can bring anything from sunny skies to unpredictable rain showers, so dress in layers and be prepared for wet weather
History of the London Marathon
The year is 1981 – Live Aid is making music history, Lady Diana is saying “I do” (in THAT dress) in the royal wedding of the century, and the first ever London Marathon is born.
Founded by British Olympic medallists Chris Brasher and John Disley, the race was designed to showcase the best of the city while promoting fitness and charity.
The inaugural race on 29 March 1981 saw over 20,000 applicants, with less than half of those making it to the start line. Dick Beardsley (USA) and Inge Simonsen (Norway) famously finished hand-in-hand in 2:11:48, while Joyce Smith won the women’s race in 2:29:57.
Fast forward to today, and the TCS London Marathon attracted more than 800,000 applicants for this year’s event, while participants have raised more than £1 billion for charity since 1981. The 2024 event was the largest in history and 2025, the historic 45th edition, is set to be even bigger.
Did you know? The fastest-ever London Marathon time is 02:01:25, set by Kelvin Kiptum in 2023. This year, all eyes are Jacob Kiplimo who is making his London Marathon debut after recently smashing the world record for the half-marathon in Barcelona with a time of 56:42.
What is the London Marathon 2025 route?
The TCS London Marathon route starts in Blackheath and ends at The Mall in front of Buckingham Palace, making it one of the most iconic finishes of any sporting event in the world.
The route itself takes you past some of London’s most famous attractions, including the historic Tower Bridge, views of London Eye from Embankment and the iconic Buckingham Palace.
Download the London Marathon App for an interactive map of the route and live tracking features on race day to follow your loved one's progress.
Travel tip: Expect extensive road closures and busy Tube stations (especially Blackheath and Greenwich in the morning) with delays and potential temporary closures of stations at peak race times.
The best places to watch the London Marathon
Spectating at the London Marathon is about more than just watching the runners; it’s about soaking up the incredible atmosphere of the event.
If you want to be part of its infectious energy, head to some of the busier areas along the route such as Cutty Sark, Canary Wharf, Tower Bridge and the Embankment. Here you’ll be right in the middle of the action, where the crowds are massive, the cheers are loud and there is plenty of fun signage spotting to do. Plus, you’ll get to see iconic London landmarks up close.
If you’d rather find a more secluded spot along the route, try:
- Surrey Quays, Rotherhithe or Bermondsey: Ideal for catching loved ones earlier in the race.
- Mudchute and Crossharbour (Isle of Dogs): A quieter area that can be a tough section for runners – even more reason to cheer them on here!
To meet runners after the race, head to the designated meet and greet area at Horse Guards Parade just off The Mall where letter zones help reunite participants and supporters.
Accessible viewing points along the route
For those attending with access needs, London Marathon organisers ensure there are plenty of accessible viewing spots along the route. These areas offer a great vantage point to catch all the action comfortably and safely and are typically located near key landmarks.
Check the official London Marathon website for exact locations.
What’s on in London during the London Marathon 2025?
Whether you’re local or travelling to the city for the first time, make the most of the marathon weekend with special events and fun activities happening across the city.
- London Marathon Expo – Pick up exclusive race merchandise and discounts on sports gear.
- Race day prep: Join the free ASICS Road to 26.2 run event at their Oxford Street store (10 April) which includes a group 5k run and free product trials with experts on-hand to offer advice.
- Sightseeing tours – Spot many of the sights that will appear along the route on a Total London Experience tour.
- Rooftop bars – Try and catch some of the action from a stylish London rooftop bar.
- Post-race celebrations – Treat yourself to a meal at a London restaurant or enjoy a celebratory pint in a traditional London pub.
- Relax and recover – Pamper yourself at a London spa or book a ticket to a must-see West End show.
Freebies for London Marathon runners 2025
Display your medal at participating locations across London for a variety of special discounts and freebies.
- Take a free ride on London Underground and Overground services as well as the DLR and buses.
- Hungry runners can get a delicious steak or burger on the house at Heliot Steak House. 27-28 Apr
- Pick up a free pint at any of the nine pubs under the Three Cheers Pub Co including The Abbeville (Clapham), The Avalon (Clapham), The Bolingbroke (Battersea), The Latchmere (Battersea), The Princess Victoria (Sherpher's Bush), The Rosendale (Dulwich), The Stonhouse (Clapham). The Tommyfield (Kennington) and The Bedford (Balham).
Avoid the London Marathon crowds
If you’d prefer to avoid the marathon crowds instead, head to one of London’s top museums, explore vibrant areas away from the race route like Camden, Shoreditch and Notting Hill, or take a day trip out of the city to exciting destinations such as Oxford, Stonehenge or Bath.
Where to stay in London during the London Marathon 2025
Ensure you have a relaxing a stress-free experience before and after your race by booking from one of the city's many accommodation options. Whether you’re looking for something budget-friendly or a luxury stay in a top London hotel.
Make your marathon experience extra special by booking at one of London’s premium hotels offering marathon-specific packages. The Westin, One Aldwych and DoubleTree by Hilton, all in central London, are known for their exceptional service and prime locations, with marathon packages that include early breakfasts, late check-out options and even post-race recovery services.
Are any celebrities taking part in the London Marathon 2025?
From comedians and politicians to celebrity chefs, the London Marathon has welcomed many celebrities over the years.
This year's London Marathon will see stars from sport, TV and music take on the challenge. Sir Jason Kenny, Chris Mears and John Terry are among the sporting icons running for charity, while Romesh Ranganathan, Alexandra Burke and Joe Wicks lead the entertainment lineup. McFly’s Harry Judd and Outlander star Sam Heughan are also lacing up. Keep an eye out for familiar faces on race day!
When is the London Marathon ballot announced?
The 2026 TCS London Marathon ballot is scheduled to be open on the day of this year’s event (Sunday 27 April). Results will be announced later in the year.
Successful applicants are usually notified via email, but if you don't receive an email, you can check the London Marathon ballot results on the official website.
Whether you're running, cheering, or volunteering, the London Marathon 2025 promises an unforgettable experience.
Get inspired for your trip with these London itineraries, and see what other major events are happening across the capital in 2025.