How do I enter the London Marathon?

Entry methods include ballot (lottery), Good for Age time qualifiers (sub-3:15 for men under 50, sub-3:45 for women under 50), championship entry, charity places, or as an overseas runner through tour operators.

When is the London Marathon held?

The TCS London Marathon is traditionally held in April, typically the third or fourth Sunday. Weather can range from cool and perfect to warm, so train in varied conditions.

What makes the London Marathon special?

London offers incredible atmosphere with massive crowds (especially the final stretch on The Mall), iconic landmarks (Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, Westminster), and one of the world's most prestigious marathons with elite fields.

Is the London Marathon course fast?

Yes, London is relatively flat with only modest elevation changes. The course is known for fast times, though the narrow start and crowds can slow the first few miles. World records have been set here.

What is the Good for Age qualifying time?

Good for Age (GFA) times guarantee entry. Standards vary by age and gender, starting at 3:15 for men under 50 and 3:45 for women under 50, becoming more lenient with age. These times must be run at an eligible race.

TCS London Marathon

One of the world's most iconic marathons, featuring a scenic route through London's historic landmarks. From Greenwich to The Mall, experience world-class organization and incredible atmosphere.

London, UK · April · 42.195 km (26.2 mi)

moderate

Elevation profile

42.8 km course

GAIN+46 m

LOSS−80 m

Plan your splits

42.195 km · 26.2 mi · London, UK

Goal finish time

Even-pace target

9:09

min/mi

Even-pace

4:00:00

Grade-adjusted

3:59:30

0:30

Grade-adjusted splits

Strava Adjusted Pace · per mile

#	Grade	Pace	Split	Cumulative
1	+0.4%	9:09/mi	9:09	9:09
2	+0.1%	9:09/mi	9:09	18:18
3	-1.6%	8:49/mi	8:49	27:08
4	-1.0%	8:57/mi	8:57	36:04
5	-0.2%	9:09/mi	9:09	45:14
6	+0.1%	9:09/mi	9:09	54:23
7	-0.0%	9:09/mi	9:09	1:03:32
8	-0.1%	9:09/mi	9:09	1:12:41
9	+0.1%	9:09/mi	9:09	1:21:51
10	-0.1%	9:09/mi	9:09	1:31:00
11	-0.1%	9:09/mi	9:09	1:40:09
12	+0.0%	9:09/mi	9:09	1:49:18
13	+0.3%	9:09/mi	9:09	1:58:27
14	+0.1%	9:09/mi	9:09	2:07:37
15	-0.3%	9:09/mi	9:09	2:16:46
16	-0.1%	9:09/mi	9:09	2:25:55
17	-0.0%	9:09/mi	9:09	2:35:04
18	+0.2%	9:09/mi	9:09	2:44:14
19	+0.3%	9:09/mi	9:09	2:53:23
20	-0.3%	9:09/mi	9:09	3:02:32
21	+0.1%	9:09/mi	9:09	3:11:41
22	+0.2%	9:09/mi	9:09	3:20:50
23	-0.0%	9:09/mi	9:09	3:30:00
24	-0.2%	9:09/mi	9:09	3:39:09
25	-0.2%	9:09/mi	9:09	3:48:18
26	+0.1%	9:09/mi	9:09	3:57:27
27	+0.0%	9:09/mi	2:00	3:59:28

Splits factor the course elevation. Steep climbs widen the pace, descents tighten it — total time on the right matches the grade-adjusted finish above.

Course highlights

Greenwich to The Mall

London is the most theatrical of the majors: Tower Bridge at halfway, Canary Wharf for industrial drama, the river for the long grind, then Big Ben and Buckingham Palace as the bow on top. The course is rolling but net-downhill — fast if you save something for the final 10K.

Start in Greenwich Park with views of the Royal Observatory
Cross the iconic Tower Bridge at mile 12
Pass through Canary Wharf's modern financial district
Run along the Thames with constant river views
See Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament at mile 25
Finish on The Mall in front of Buckingham Palace
Incredible crowd support - one of the best marathon atmospheres

Race-day tips

Stay calm through the Isle of Dogs

Tower Bridge at halfway is deceptively uphill - don't push too hard
The Isle of Dogs section (miles 14-18) can feel isolated - stay focused
Save energy for the final 10K - it's flatter and you'll need the speed
Weather can be unpredictable - prepare for rain or heat
The finish on The Mall is spectacular - enjoy the moment
Arrive early - central London transport on race day is complex

Difficulty

Mostly flat with gentle rolling sections

Rolling course with ~46m gain
Net downhill (~80m loss)
Generally fast course

FAQ

London Marathon FAQs

How do I enter the London Marathon?: Entry methods include ballot (lottery), Good for Age time qualifiers (sub-3:15 for men under 50, sub-3:45 for women under 50), championship entry, charity places, or as an overseas runner through tour operators.
When is the London Marathon held?: The TCS London Marathon is traditionally held in April, typically the third or fourth Sunday. Weather can range from cool and perfect to warm, so train in varied conditions.
What makes the London Marathon special?: London offers incredible atmosphere with massive crowds (especially the final stretch on The Mall), iconic landmarks (Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, Westminster), and one of the world's most prestigious marathons with elite fields.
Is the London Marathon course fast?: Yes, London is relatively flat with only modest elevation changes. The course is known for fast times, though the narrow start and crowds can slow the first few miles. World records have been set here.
What is the Good for Age qualifying time?: Good for Age (GFA) times guarantee entry. Standards vary by age and gender, starting at 3:15 for men under 50 and 3:45 for women under 50, becoming more lenient with age. These times must be run at an eligible race.