Where & When to Watch the London Marathon
The London Marathon is an event that draws lots of people from all over the world to the city of dreams. In fact, for some people, attending the Marathon has become a family tradition. The reason for this is simple: the London Marathon is a truly unique sporting festival that captivates the hearts and minds of everyone lucky enough to experience it.
London has a lot to offer, from its bustling streets to its vibrant culture. But did you know that it also offers short stay self-catering apartments in London?
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, finding the perfect place to stay during the Marathon 2026 is crucial. So, let’s dive into the details of when the marathon is happening and where you can catch all the action!
About The London Marathon
It will interest you to know that the event has actually been around for a long time. The first edition of this iconic sporting festival was held in 1981, and since then, it has fast become interwoven into the city's cultural landscape.
Now, here’s something you didn’t know about the Marathon. Did you know that the London Marathon is held every year in April, and it actually marks the arrival of spring in the city? This is another reason why people are always enthusiastic about the event.
You Can Also Read: London in Winter Season 2025: Explore Top Attractions
Event Date, Timing & Location
The event typically takes place every year in April. This year, the event is scheduled for the 26th of April, 2026. Before the main TCS London Marathon, there is usually a TCS Mini London Marathon event a day before the main event.
Of course, as the name implies, the London Marathon will be held in the capital city itself. So, if you intend to take part in this landmark event and you’re not based in the city, you should start making travel preparations.
The London Marathon starts at one of three start lines between Greenwich and Blackheath. The route winds through some of the most iconic areas in the city, such as Cutty Sark, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, the Shard, and the London Eye, before finishing at Buckingham Palace on The Mall.
How to Participate & Registration Fee?
Anyone can participate in the London Marathon, provided you can register. Now, there are various means of securing a slot, but the ballot entry is probably the easiest. The ballot entry opens several months before the event, but if you’ve missed this, you can still register via charity places or enter with a tour operator.
If, for some reason, you can’t make it down to London, you should explore the TCS London Marathon MyWay option. This will allow you to run the race from anywhere you are in the world. Some other ways to participate in the Marathon are through a British Athletics Club entry and a Good For Age entry. Note that the only way to be eligible for a Good For Age entry is to have run a full marathon in a very good time.
Registration Fee:
- Ballot entries for 2026 are now closed, but charity places are still available.
- The TCS London Marathon MyWay option allows participants to run the race from anywhere in the world. The fee is £30 for UK residents and £40 for international participants.
Where to stay in London on a Budget?
If you’re not based in the UK or you’ll be travelling down to the capital from different parts of the country, you’ll need a place to stay. If you’re looking for a place that balances comfort, convenience and affordability, the Presidential serviced apartments, Kensington, London, is an excellent choice for you, aside from offering excellent comfort at pocket-friendly prices. Located in the heart of the city, these serviced apartments offer the perfect home away from home, with spacious living areas and modern amenities to ensure a relaxing stay.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, your comprehensive guide to participating in the Marathon. As you prepare for this landmark event, remember that many people will be travelling to London from all over the world. Book your stay in our fully furnished apartments in London now, before all apartments are fully booked!
