There are Few running events that can rival the London Marathon for its sense of occasion and the sheer enthusiasm of its spectators. The first London Marathon was held on 29th March 1981, more than 20,000 applied to run. 6,747 were accepted and 6,255 crossed the finish line. Since the first marathon, it has become hugely popular and now attracts more than 50,000 runners, who between them raise over £50 million for various charities each year. In 2024, runners raised £67 million, the highest amount for a single-day fund raising event. There is a significant charity running aspect to the London Marathon, and as of 1981 runners have raised over £1 billion. Most runners run for their chosen charity and for personal achievement.
In 1983 the first wheelchair marathon race was held and event was credited with reducing the stigma surrounding disabled athletes. The course never strays far from the River Thames, and the largely flat terrain spans 42.196 kilometres (26.219 miles). Due to cooler spring-time temperatures many runners often achieve personal bests. Over the years, four world records have been set at the event, including one by Britain’s own Paula Radcliffe.
The race starts in historic Greenwich Park, home of the Royal Observatory, with runners passing the Old Royal Naval College and the dry-docked Cutty Sark, before progressing through London’s Docklands and crossing the Thames via Tower Bridge – the halfway point.
They then follow a convoluted loop around the Isle of Dogs before heading west into Central London on Victoria Embankment. The finish line is on Birdcage Walk beside St James’s Park, a stone’s throw from Buckingham Palace.
The marathon attracts everyone from the world’s best runners to charity fundraisers dressed as teddy bears or bananas – and the crowd seems to have even more fun cheering on the backmarkers than they do the professionals
The twisty, relatively compact nature of the course makes it perfect for spectating, as it’s possible to wander easily between different points on the course – enjoying the atmosphere and cheering on the runners as they go.
Prime viewing spots are on Tower Bridge, where the course doubles back on itself after it goes north of the River Thames, the Victoria Embankment, where many of the runners start to flag, and the final mile around St James’s Park.
You’ll need to arrive early to get a good spot, especially if you want to see the start of the wheelchair race or elite runners. The wheelchair competitors get going at 8.55am, followed by professional athletes from 9am, and amateur runners at 10am. This year the event will be held on Sunday 26th April
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