London Marathon

The TCS London Marathon, held in mid-April each year, is one of the six Abbott World Marathon Majors and the world's largest annual fundraising event. Around 50,000 runners complete the 26.2-mile course through central London; hundreds of thousands of spectators line the route.

Entering as a Runner

The mass public ballot opens shortly after each year's race and closes in late April or May. Results are announced in October. Ballot acceptance rates are around 3–4% for public places — the majority of runners either enter through a charity place (running to raise money for an official charity partner) or through a club or time-qualifying route. Charity places are the most accessible route for first-timers without a fast qualifying time.

Watching as a Spectator

The route runs from Blackheath (start) through Greenwich, along the Embankment, through the City and finishes on The Mall in St James's. Watching is free anywhere along the route. The best spectator spots for atmosphere: Cutty Sark (around mile 6), Tower Bridge (mile 12–13), Canary Wharf (mile 16–17), and the finish on The Mall. Get to your spot early — crowds build from around 9am and are densest at the iconic moments.

Tips

• Enter the public ballot immediately after the previous year's race — the window opens for a few weeks.
• Charity places are the most realistic route for most people — research official charity partners.
• As a spectator, arrive at your viewing spot by 9am for the best position.
• Bring a sign if you're cheering someone specific — runners absolutely respond to their names being called.