The TCS London Marathon is one of the most prestigious and popular marathons in the world. The largely flat course passes iconic landmarks including Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, and finishes on The Mall in front of Buckingham Palace.
Abbott World Marathon MajorWA Platinum Label
Est.
1981
Distance
42.195km / 26.2mi
Course
Loop
Surface
Road
Elev. Gain
30m
Elev. Loss
30m
Field Size
~50,000
When
April
Time Limit
8h
THE COURSE
Gain
+30m
Loss
-30m
MI 0
KM 0
Greenwich Park Start
Three start points in Greenwich converge near the Cutty Sark. Runners pass through the historic maritime district with views of the Old Royal Naval College.
ELEV: 100ft
MI 12
KM 19.3
Tower Bridge
The iconic crossing of Tower Bridge at mile 12 is the signature moment of the London Marathon. Thousands of spectators line both sides as runners cross the Thames.
ELEV: 30ft
MI 18
KM 29
Canary Wharf
The course loops through the modern financial district of Canary Wharf. The glass towers create a dramatic backdrop as runners hit the halfway mark.
ELEV: 20ft
MI 24
KM 38.6
Embankment
Running along the Thames Embankment past Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. The crowds build to a crescendo as runners approach the final stretch.
ELEV: 15ft
MI 26.2
KM 42.195
The Mall Finish
The finish on The Mall in front of Buckingham Palace is one of the grandest finishes in world running. The tree-lined avenue and Royal backdrop make it unforgettable.