🇬🇧 What to Expect at the London Marathon (2025 Edition)

Having run London before, I've gathered some key insights to help you navigate the course and the entire race weekend. Let's dive in!

The London Marathon holds a special place in my heart—it's my second favorite race after NYC. Why? Because the crowds energize you from beginning to end. The support is unwavering, the organization is top-notch, and everyone you encounter is so kind and courteous. If you're gearing up for London this April, you're in for an unforgettable experience.

🚉 Getting to the Start Line: Multiple Entrances and Stations

The London Marathon features three different start areas: Red, Blue, and Green. Each with its own designated train stations:

• Red Start:
  • Station: Greenwich Station (National Rail) or Maze Hill Station
  • Note: Both stations involve a walk to the start area, with some uphill sections.
• Blue Start:
  • Station: Blackheath Station (National Rail)
  • Note: Expect an uphill walk from the station to the Blue Start area.
• Green Start:
  • Station: Maze Hill Station (National Rail)
  • Note: Similar to the Red Start, there's a walk to the Green Start area, including some inclines.

Tips:

• Plan Ahead: Familiarize yourself with your start area and the corresponding station. The London Marathon website provides detailed maps and instructions.
• Arrive Early: Trains can get crowded, and the walk to the start line may take longer than expected.
• Warm-Up: Use the uphill walk as part of your warm-up routine, but pace yourself to conserve energy.
  
  

📍 The Start Line

🚺 Ladies-Only Facilities

Ladies, take note: there are special portapotties designated for women. These are intended for urinating only, helping to reduce wait times and provide a more comfortable experience. Look out for the signs indicating these facilities in the start area.

🏃‍♂️ The Course 

📉 Miles 1–3: Downhill & Crowded

The first few miles are slightly downhill but super crowded.

• Don’t stress about pace. GPS will bounce a bit here anyway.
• Just keep moving steadily and use this time to shake off the nerves.
• Smile and enjoy the drumlines and cheers from local neighborhoods.
  
  

🏙️ Miles 4–12: Through South London & Tower Bridge Glory

You’ll weave through Woolwich, Deptford, and Bermondsey before the course delivers a goosebumps moment…

• Mile 12: Tower Bridge. One of the most iconic sights in marathon running. The roar of the crowd, the view, the pride, it’s unreal!
• This is a great place to take it all in, but don’t surge too early.

🌀 Miles 13–21: The Isle of Dogs Loop

• This part is mentally tricky: fewer crowds, lots of turns, and you're not quite at the finish stretch.
• Focus on fueling. Hydration and carbs are key right here.
• Stay relaxed and keep your cadence steady.
• You'll pass Canary Wharf and hit mile 20 before heading back toward the city center.
  
  

📣 Mile 21–25: The Home Stretch Gets Real

Now you're back along the Thames. The crowds are back too big time.

• Every step gets louder. People will shout your name if it’s on your bib.
• You'll pass the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament. Take it in!
• Energy might dip. This is where mental toughness carries you through.

🏁 Mile 26: Buckingham Palace & The Finish on The Mall

The final stretch is breathtaking.

• You’ll turn onto Birdcage Walk, pass Buckingham Palace on your left, and then sprint (or shuffle!) down The Mall to the red finish line.
• The Union Jack-lined street is pure marathon magic. Don’t forget to smile for the cameras!

🎉 Race Weekend Events & Must-Know Info

🏁 TCS London Marathon Expo

When: April 23–26
Where: ExCeL London
What: Bib pickup, gear shopping, sponsor booths, meet-ups, and photo ops galore.
Tip: Go early to avoid the crowds and have time to explore!

👏 Spectator Hotspots

• Cutty Sark (Mile 6): Iconic spot, great energy.
• Tower Bridge (Mile 12): Jaw-dropping visuals.
• The Embankment (Mile 24+): Tons of cheering, great place to push to the finish.

🧾 Finish Line Logistics

• After you finish, you’ll collect your medal, water, recovery bag, and a well-earned heat cape.
• Bag drop trucks will be waiting in Horse Guards Parade (just past the finish).
• Meet-up with friends in the Alphabet Zones near St. James’s Park.

🧠 Final Thoughts

The London Marathon is a world-class experience that’ll leave you in awe. Whether you're chasing a PR or soaking up every cheer, remember: You belong here, and appreciate the effort some runners put into their costumes, making the whole race a total spectacle.

Run smart, pace wisely, and trust your training.
And when you cross that finish line on The Mall? Throw your arms up. You just conquered one of the greatest races on earth. 🇬🇧💪

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