Please note that London Heritage Quarter is not associated with this event. Below is a guide on what to expect. Further information can be found on the Official London Marathon website, where help pages and contact details can be found too.
- When is the London Marathon 2026?
- What is the London Marathon Route?
- Best Places for Spectators at the London Marathon
- London Marathon Road Closures
- Staying Safe & Secure at London Marathon
- Best London Marathon Freebies 2026
TCS London Marathon 2026
Every April, the streets of London come alive with the pounding footsteps of thousands of runners taking part in the iconic London Marathon. Whether you’re lacing up your trainers or cheering from the sidelines, it’s a day filled with energy, inspiration, and community spirit. Many companies are offering exclusive offers for runners, scroll down to find out more. See information on road closures here and security here.
When is the London Marathon?
This year, the TCS London Marathon will take place on Sunday 26 April 2026. Staggered start times will occur throughout the morning and exact timings and wave details will be shared with registered runners ahead of race day.
What is the London Marathon Route?
The London Marathon route is one of the most famous in the world, taking runners on a 26.2-mile journey through the heart of the city. The race finishes along The Mall by Buckingham Palace, creating a spectacular end to this world-renowned London marathon route. The course is also fully closed to traffic, clearly marked and measured and supported by crowds lining the streets throughout.
Participants will pass some of London’s most iconic landmarks, including Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, in Whitehall and Victoria Districts of London Heritage Quarter, respectively.
Best Places for Spectators at the London Marathon
Spectating the London Marathon London is an experience in itself, with crowds creating an incredible atmosphere. Top viewing spots include Embankment, near the final stretch, and The Mall by Buckingham Palace for finish line excitement. Arrive early, as these locations can become extremely busy.
London Marathon Road Closures
The TCS London Marathon will be holding its 46th Mass Participation Race on Sunday 26 April, with up to 50,000 runners taking part and raising money for charity. The route within Westminster is unchanged from previous years and is provided with this notice. Please note however that road closures for public safety have increased around Trafalgar Square. Visit the London Marathon website for up to date information on road closures.
Road Closures for the TCS Mini London Marathon
In addition to the London Marathon, the TCS Mini Marathon will take place on Saturday 25 April 2026, taking place within St James’s Park. This is a one-mile route aimed at children, starting at Horse Guards Parade and finishing on The Mall. Runners will compete in various ages groups and distances. Visit the Mini London Marathon website for up to date information on road closures.
Stay Safe & Secure
If something looks unusual or doesn’t feel right during the TCS Mini Marathon and TCS London Marathon, report it to staff or security. Event organisers, stewards and medical teams are positioned throughout the route to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
London Marathon Freebies for Runners 2026
Running the London Marathon 2026 doesn’t just come with an incredible finish line moment, it also unlocks a range of exciting London Marathon freebies across the capital. So, if you’re taking part in the London Marathon, keep your medal handy! It’s often your ticket to claiming the best London Marathon runner offers. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the top London Marathon 2026 freebies and deals to help you celebrate your achievement.
Free Travel for London Marathon Runners
Participating in the London Marathon 2026? You can travel for FREE from London stations to the start with Transport for London (TfL)’s underground, overground and bus services, as well as the DLR, Elizabeth Line and on Southeastern trains. Just show your bib, no need to tap in! Valid on 26 April London Marathon race day only.
Free Food & Drinks for London Marathon Runners
- Free pizza for marathon runners at Franco Manca – show your finisher medal on 26 or 27 April 2026 to claim your post-race carbs
- Free pad-thai for London Marathon runners at Rosa’s Thai – choose your protein and refuel with complimentary Pad Thai on 26 April
- Free Sunday Roast at Kitty Hawk Rooftop Restaurant & Bar – devour all the trimmings whilst overlooking Trafalgar Square at this rooftop bar with panoramic views. Just a short victory stroll from the London Marathon finish line
- Free steak at Gaucho Chancery Lane – show your medal, choose one of their signature cuts and tuck-in to a meaty feast on 26 April
- Free burger at HBR on Eccleston Street – the first 100 finishers to show their medal can feast on fan favourites for free, like the The OG and Classy Chick Burger
- Free pint of JUBEL at The Palm House – show your medal at the bar to redeem your drink, and celebrate your achievement with live DJs soundtracking your day
- Free Chaat at Cinnamon Bazaar – refuel with some well-earned chaat on 26 or 27 April 2026. Simply show your finisher’s medal at Cinnamon Bazaar Covent Garden to redeem
- Complimentary glass of The Ivy’s Cuvée or Wild Idol Naturally Alcohol Free Sparkling Wine – toast your outstanding achievement at The Ivy Victoria! Simply show your marathon medal
- Free mochi dessert at ROKA Aldwych – show your medal upon arrival and savour a well-deserved sweet treat
- Free burger from Bill’s Victoria – purchase a drink, show your London Marathon 2026 medal or volunteer pass and redeem on 26 April
- Complimentary drink at Smith & Wollensky – toast to your achievement with a glass Prosecco, house red or white wine, beer, or a soft drink! Just show your medal to redeem
- Glass of wine on the house at Vagabond – Swing by Vagabond Victoria, just moments from the finish line at Buckingham Palace, and the team will pour you a fresh glass of wine
Post-Race Freebies for London Marathon Runners
- Complimentary shower products from Lush Victoria Station – recover and rejuvenate with the new Marathon-exclusive Ouchy magnesium massage balm and The Good Hour shower jelly. Grab yours from Lush Victoria Station, just a short walk from the London Marathon finish line by Buckingham Palace
Wellness & Recovery Freebies for London Marathon Finishers
- Post-marathon chiropractic session at Greenwood – give your body the recovery the expert-care it deserves with Bradley Ingram, who will be offering post-race support to help runners recover after the finish line