The TCS London Marathon 2026 is fast approaching, and this year’s edition promises to be one of the most spectacular in the event’s 45-year history. Taking place on Sunday 27 April, the race will see a world-class elite field take on the iconic route through the capital, while tens of thousands of mass-participation runners complete their own personal journeys alongside them.
London Marathon 2026 Date and Start Time
The 2026 TCS London Marathon takes place on Sunday 27 April. Elite wheelchair racers set off first at 8:55am, followed by the elite women’s field at 9:10am and the elite men at 9:30am. Mass-start runners begin their race from around 10:00am in waves from Blackheath, Greenwich.
The Route: From Blackheath to The Mall
The London Marathon route follows the same beloved path through the capital that has made it one of the most popular marathons in the world. Runners begin south of the Thames at Blackheath and pass through Greenwich before reaching the river crossing at Tower Bridge — the race’s most iconic and photographed moment.
From Tower Bridge, the route heads into east London before looping back through the City, past Canary Wharf, and along the Embankment. The final stretch takes runners past the Houses of Parliament and along Birdcage Walk before finishing in glory on The Mall in front of Buckingham Palace. The course covers 26.2 miles and is well-known for its flat, fast profile that regularly produces fast times.
Best Places to Watch in London
The entire route is lined with spectators, but certain spots are particularly popular for watching the race unfold:
- Greenwich Park (Miles 1–3): Catch runners fresh off the start line in a beautiful setting.
- Tower Bridge (Mile 12–13): The most dramatic section of the course, where the elite runners often make their moves.
- Canary Wharf (Miles 18–19): A great spot to cheer on mid-pack runners approaching the tough final third.
- The Mall (Mile 26): The finish line area — get there early as it fills up fast.
Elite Women’s Field 2026
The women’s elite race is absolutely stacked with talent. Defending champion and women’s-only world record holder Tigst Assefa returns to defend her title, and will face fierce competition from Olympic champion Sifan Hassan and World champion Peres Jepchirchir. Four of the six fastest women to have ever run a marathon will compete in London this April, making it arguably the deepest women’s marathon field ever assembled.
Elite Men’s Field 2026
The men’s field is no less impressive. Sabastian Sawe, who made headlines with his debut marathon performances, and Jacob Kiplimo, the brilliant Ugandan distance runner, are among the headline names. Making his marathon debut this year is Yomif Kejelcha — the second-fastest man ever over the half marathon and widely regarded as one of the most exciting emerging talents in long-distance running. Joshua Cheptegei, the 2024 Paris Olympic champion on the track, also lines up, making this one of the most anticipated men’s fields in the event’s history.
How to Watch the London Marathon 2026
BBC Sport will broadcast comprehensive coverage of the 2026 TCS London Marathon live and free-to-air on BBC One and the BBC iPlayer from approximately 8:30am on race day. Commentary teams will cover both the elite races and the mass-participation event, with regular updates on club runners and celebrities completing the course.
Tips for Spectators
If you are planning to travel to London to watch the marathon, plan your journey carefully. Many roads in central and south-east London will be closed from early morning, and public transport will be busy. TfL recommends using the Tube, Overground, or Elizabeth line where possible, and arriving early at your chosen viewing spot. Taking snacks, a light rain jacket, and comfortable footwear is strongly advised — this is a long day out, but an absolutely unforgettable one.
Whether you are watching a friend run their first marathon or cheering on the elite athletes chasing records, the 2026 TCS London Marathon promises to be an unmissable occasion in the sporting calendar.