The TCS London Marathon 2027 will run over two days, on Saturday 24 April and Sunday 25 April 2027. This is the first time the event spreads across a full weekend. Runners, families, and visitors can plan early and make the most of it. This guide covers everything you need. First, you will see the race dates and schedule. Next, you will learn how to register. After that, the route, travel tips, and visitor advice follow. Read on to plan your trip with confidence.
Race Dates and Weekend Schedule
London will host thousands of runners across two days. The new format gives more people a chance to take part. In addition, it spreads the crowds a little across the weekend.
The following table shows the key facts at a glance.
| Detail | Information |
| Race days | Saturday 24 April and Sunday 25 April 2027 |
| Distance | 26.2 miles (42.195 km) |
| Host city | London, United Kingdom |
| Public ballot window | 24 April to 1 May 2026 |
| Ballot results | Announced in July 2026 |
Why Two Days?
Demand for places has grown fast. For example, more than 1.3 million people entered the public ballot for 2027. Therefore, organisers chose a two-day format to offer more places. Each runner races on one day only.
What to Expect on Each Day
The organisers decide which groups start on which day. Therefore, check your confirmation email and the official event website for your start day and time. Meanwhile, spectators should confirm the plans for each day before they travel. Start times, road closures, and crowd levels may differ between Saturday and Sunday.
How to Register for the 2027 Race
The public ballot for 2027 has already closed. However, you still have several ways to earn a place. Each route suits a different type of runner. The table below compares the main options.
| Entry route | Who it suits | Key point |
| Public ballot | UK and overseas runners | Closed on 1 May 2026; a random draw |
| Charity place | Runners who like to fundraise | About 25,000 places across roughly 500 charities |
| Good for Age | UK residents with a fast time | Fastest runners in each age group win places |
| Club place | Members of affiliated UK clubs | Clubs share a small number of places |
| Tour operator | Overseas runners | Package with entry and travel |
The Public Ballot
The ballot opened on Friday 24 April 2026 and closed on Friday 1 May 2026. A total of 1,338,544 people applied. The draw works like a lottery, so every applicant has the same chance. Organisers announced the results in July 2026.
If you won a place, check your email and your online account. Then follow the steps to confirm your entry and pay the fee. Keep your confirmation safe, because you will need it later.
Charity Places
Charity places are the most popular route after the ballot. In return for a place, you agree to raise money for a good cause. Many charities also give you a running top, training advice, and a cheer point on the course.
However, charities receive far more applications than places. Therefore, apply early and read each charity’s rules. Some charities keep a waiting list, and they usually reply within a few weeks.
Good for Age Places
Good for Age places reward speed. UK residents can claim one by running a set time at an approved marathon. The time depends on your age and gender. For example, in the 2026 cycle, men aged 40 to 44 needed to run under 2 hours 57 minutes. Women in the same age group needed under 3 hours 43 minutes.
Additionally, the qualifying window usually runs for about a year. Check the official website for the 2027 standards, because they can change.
Overseas Runners
Runners who live outside the UK can use an official international tour operator. These packages often include your entry, a hotel, and sometimes hospitality. As a result, they cost more than a standard entry. Nevertheless, they remove much of the planning stress.
Avoid Unofficial Sellers
Only buy through the official website, a registered charity, or an approved partner. Entries cannot pass to another runner, and scammers target eager fans each year. Therefore, treat any unofficial offer with caution.
The Route and Famous Landmarks
The course is one of the most scenic in the world. It starts in south-east London and follows the River Thames. Then it crosses the river and heads west to the finish. Organisers have used a similar course for years, so confirm any changes on the official site.
The Start Area
Runners begin near Greenwich Park and Blackheath. The start is split into zones, and each runner has a colour that matches their bib. Therefore, you must go to the right zone before the gun. The area opens early, and security checks take time.
Key Points on the Course
The table lists the main landmarks in order. Distances are approximate.
| Approximate mile | Landmark | What to expect |
| 0 to 3 | Greenwich and Woolwich | Crowded start with a fast first stretch |
| 6 | Cutty Sark | Loud crowds around the historic ship |
| 12 | Tower Bridge | An iconic moment with huge cheers |
| 13.1 | Halfway point | Just after the bridge |
| 15 to 21 | Isle of Dogs and Canary Wharf | Twisting streets and tall towers |
| 23 to 25 | Embankment | Runners follow the river path |
| 25 to 26 | Big Ben and Birdcage Walk | The final push |
| 26.2 | The Mall | The finish line near Buckingham Palace |
Tips for Each Stage
First, hold back in the early miles. The crowds are thick, and the pace can feel quick. Second, enjoy Tower Bridge, but keep your rhythm. Third, stay calm in Canary Wharf, because the winding roads can feel long.
Meanwhile, the final miles along the river need mental strength. However, the roar of the crowd on The Mall lifts almost everyone to the end.
Terrain and Weather
The course is mostly flat, with a few gentle rises. Surfaces include tarmac, cobbles near the Cutty Sark, and some bridges. April weather in London changes quickly. It can be cool and dry, or warm and wet. Therefore, pack layers and check the forecast the day before.
Water and Support
The course has drink stations about every mile after the early stage. In addition, medical teams, toilets, and cheer zones line the route. Charities often set up their own cheer points, so tell your friends where to find you.
Travel and Accommodation
London is easy to reach, but race weekend gets busy. Therefore, book flights, trains, and hotels as soon as you know your start day.
Getting to London
London has six major airports. Heathrow and Gatwick handle the most long-haul flights. City Airport sits close to the course and to Canary Wharf. In addition, Eurostar trains link Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam to St Pancras station.
Getting Around the City
Public transport is the best choice on race days. Roads close along the course, and car parks fill early. The main options are listed below.
| Transport | Best for | Tip |
| Underground and Elizabeth line | Reaching central stations | Avoid the busiest hour before the start |
| Overground and National Rail | Reaching the start area | Services to Blackheath and Greenwich run busy |
| Docklands Light Railway | Canary Wharf and Greenwich | Good for watching runners at two spots |
| Buses | Short local trips | Many routes divert on race days |
| Walking and cycling | Crossing nearby streets | Expect closed roads and crowds |
Getting to the Start
Runners receive clear travel advice before the event. Usually, the start area has several entrances, and each matches a zone. Leave early, carry your bib, and follow the signs. Meanwhile, plan how you will reach your hotel afterwards, since you will feel tired.
Where to Stay
Hotel prices rise sharply on race weekend. For that reason, look at areas beyond the centre. Greenwich and Blackheath suit runners who want a short trip to the start. Westminster and Covent Garden suit those who want to finish near their hotel. Canary Wharf offers modern rooms and good transport links.
However, rooms near the finish sell out first. Therefore, choose a flexible booking with free cancellation. Additionally, consider short-term flats if you travel with a group.
Budget Tips
- Book a hotel as early as possible.
- Stay a short train ride from the centre.
- Buy a contactless card or travel pass for transport.
- Pack snacks and a refillable bottle.
- Share rooms with friends or family.
Visitor and Spectator Information
You do not need to run to enjoy the weekend. Millions of people line the streets each year. The atmosphere is friendly, loud, and full of energy.
Best Places to Watch
Each spot offers a different mood.
- Cutty Sark: lively, with great views of the ship.
- Tower Bridge: famous, but very crowded.
- Canary Wharf: easy to reach and good for seeing runners twice.
- Embankment: calmer, with space to move.
- The Mall: the finish, with big screens and cheering fans.
However, popular spots fill early. Therefore, arrive at least one hour before your runner passes. Additionally, agree on a meeting point, because mobile signals can drop in crowds.
Tracking Your Runner
The official app lets you follow runners by name or bib number. As a result, you can time your moves between viewing spots. Charge your phone first, and carry a small power bank.
Race Day Essentials for Visitors
- Wear comfortable shoes, since you will walk a lot.
- Bring layers and a light rain jacket.
- Carry a bottle, snacks, and sun cream.
- Make a sign with your runner’s name.
- Keep bags small, because security checks can be strict.
Things to Do Around the Weekend
London offers plenty to see. Visit the Tower of London, the British Museum, or the Royal Observatory in Greenwich. Alternatively, walk through St James’s Park or along the South Bank. Many pubs and cafes welcome runners, so book a table for a post-race meal.
Runners should also check the race expo, where you collect your number and kit. Bring photo identification and your confirmation. Furthermore, arrive early on the first day to avoid long queues.
Safety and Accessibility
Stay aware of your belongings in crowded places. Follow the advice of marshals and police. Moreover, the course offers viewing areas with step-free access, and the organisers publish accessibility details before the event. Contact them early if you need support.
Conclusion
The 2027 race will run on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 April, and it offers more room for runners than ever. The public ballot has closed. Still, charity, Good for Age, club, and tour operator routes remain. The course takes in famous sights from Greenwich to The Mall. In addition, public transport, early hotel bookings, and a clear spectator plan make the weekend smoother. Therefore, start your preparation now, confirm every detail on the official website, and enjoy a unique day in London.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 2027 race?
It runs on Saturday 24 April and Sunday 25 April 2027 in London.
How long is the course?
The distance is 26.2 miles, or 42.195 kilometres.
Is the public ballot still open?
No. The ballot closed on 1 May 2026. You can still try charity, Good for Age, club, or tour operator places.
How many people applied to the ballot?
A total of 1,338,544 people entered the ballot for 2027.
Can I choose which day I run?
Organisers assign start days and times. Check your confirmation email for yours.
Where does the race start and finish?
It starts near Greenwich Park and Blackheath. It finishes on The Mall, near Buckingham Palace.
How do I get a charity place?
Apply through the charity’s own website. Places are limited, so apply early.
Can I transfer my entry to a friend?
No. Entries do not pass to another runner, so avoid unofficial sellers.
What is the best way to travel on race day?
Use public transport. Many roads close, and parking is scarce.
What should spectators bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, layers, snacks, water, a charged phone, and a small bag.
