London Marathon 2026: Nearest station and cheap train tickets

On Sunday, 26 April 2026, London will once again burst into colour, cheers and unstoppable energy as tens of thousands of runners take their marks for the TCS London Marathon. Since its inaugural run in 1981, the London Marathon has grown into a defining moment in the sporting calendar, attracting elite athletes, everyday heroes, and fundraisers from every corner of the world.

The 2026 race promises another unforgettable spectacle along the city's most famous landmarks, from Greenwich Park to the triumphant finish on The Mall. With major road closures in place, travelling by train is the easiest and most reliable way to get around London on race day.

Stations near the start and finish are well connected, making it simple for runners and supporters to soak up every moment without the stress of traffic or parking. You can easily compare all train services and book the cheapest tickets on uk.trip.com.

Heading to London for the Marathon? Whether you're coming from Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow or Liverpool, frequent direct services connect major UK cities to London throughout the day.

Trains to London

London is exceptionally well served by the national rail network, with arrivals into key stations like London Euston, London King's Cross, London Marylebone, and London Paddington. Find your route and book your tickets below:

• Manchester to London
• Birmingham to London
• Edinburgh to London
• Glasgow to London
• Liverpool to London

Nearest stations for the start lines

The London Marathon route is one of the most recognisable in the world, a 26.2-mile journey through London's streets and along the River Thames, beginning in the leafy surroundings of  and Greenwich Park. The race operates three distinct start areas: Blue, Green, and Red, each has its own recommended arrival station.

For runners starting in the Blue or Green areas, the most convenient arrival point is Blackheath Station, served by Southeastern Railway. The station is approximately a 10–15 minute walk from both start zones, following clearly marked routes and event signage on race morning.

Those assigned to the Red start should head for Greenwich Station or Maze Hill Station, both easily accessible via Southeastern Railway and the Docklands Light Railway (DLR). It's about a 15–20-minute walk from either station to the Red start area in Greenwich Park.

Registered runners can travel free on Southeastern, DLR, and services on race morning. We recommend checking the London Marathon official website in advance for any updated information.  

Best spectator spots along the route

The London Marathon 2026 offers some of the most exciting and scenic viewing opportunities of any city marathon in the world.

Cutty Sark

Located around mile 6.5, Cutty Sark in Greenwich is one of the most noticeable points on the course. The nearest station is Cutty Sark DLR, although it can become extremely crowded due to limited access. After cheering here, you can walk through the Greenwich Foot Tunnel to Island Gardens on the Isle of Dogs to catch your runner again around mile 17.

Tower Bridge

Reaching Tower Bridge marks a major moment for every runner, around the halfway point at mile 12. The nearest stations are London Bridge, Tower Hill, Tower Gateway, and Fenchurch Street, all of which are within a short walking distance. 

Canary Wharf

From mile 14 to 21, the marathon loops through Canary Wharf, creating a high-energy atmosphere. Runners pass twice, giving spectators multiple chances to see them. The best viewing areas are around mile 15 and 18 on the southern Isle of Dogs (use Crossharbour DLR or South Quay DLR), and near mile 19 in the financial district.

Embankment

Near the end of the race, Embankment offers one of the most emotional viewing experiences as runners hit mile 25, just before the final turn onto The Mall. The atmosphere here is electric, surrounded by views of Big Ben, the London Eye, and the Thames.

The nearest stations around here are Embankment (Tube) and Charing Cross (Tube/National Rail), with Waterloo a short walk across the bridge.

The London Marathon 2026 promises an unforgettable day for runners, spectators, and the city alike. From the early morning start at Blackheath and Greenwich to the final finish on The Mall, the event transforms central London into a celebration of athleticism and charity.

Facilities at Blackheath and Greenwich Stations

Blackheath and Greenwich stations serve as the main gateways for runners and spectators heading to the Blue, Green, and Red starts. Familiarising yourself with the layout and amenities of these stations ensures a stress-free journey to the marathon start.

Blackheath Station

Blackheath Station (BKH) is the primary station for the Blue and Green lines. Managed by Southeastern, it offers B1 step-free access to all platforms, either via ramps or street-level entrances, making it accessible for all passengers.

Facilities include toilets, a sheltered waiting area with seating, and refreshment options and shops.

Ticket offices are open from early morning until evening on weekends and weekdays.

Greenwich Station

Greenwich Station (GNW), situated on Greenwich High Road, is the closest station to the Red start line. Like Blackheath, it is managed by Southeastern and offers B1 step-free access to all platforms via ramps or street access.

Facilities include toilets, sheltered waiting areas, seating, shops, and refreshments available for travellers.

Ticket offices operate daily with opening times varying slightly on weekends.

Notable runners to watch

As excitement builds toward the London Marathon 2026, keep an eye on a few exceptional athletes and figures who will add to the day's inspiration.

Defending champions

In the elite men's race, Sabastian Sawe of Kenya claimed victory in 2025 with a time of 2 h 02 m 27 s. In the women's field, Ethiopia's Tigst Assefa broke the women‑only world record by finishing in 2 h 15 m 50 s. In the wheelchair divisions, Switzerland's Marcel Hug won the men's race in 1 h 25 m 25 s, while his compatriot Catherine Debrunner took the women's title in 1 h 34 m 18 s.

Celebrity & charity runners

In addition to elite athletes, the race features a mix of actors, musicians, sports figures and other personalities running for charity or personal challenge. The full list for 2026 has yet to be confirmed, but previous editions have included high‑profile names from across entertainment and sport.

Nearby attractions for spectators

For spectators attending the London Marathon, there's plenty to see beyond cheering on runners. The route passes through some of London's most iconic areas, allowing visitors to combine race-day excitement with sightseeing.

Near the Start: Greenwich

Greenwich is full of historic and cultural attractions, making it an ideal area for spectators to explore before or after watching the runners.

• Viewing Spot: Cutty Sark

- Nearest station: Cutty Sark DLR.

- Things to do: Explore the Royal Observatory, stand on the Prime Meridian Line, or visit the National Maritime Museum.

The mid-section of the marathon passes through a mix of historic and modern areas, offering spectators plenty to see along the way.

• Viewing Spot: Tower of London: A historic fortress with a storied past, the Tower of London sits right on the route, making it easy to combine marathon watching with a dose of history.
• Nearest stations: London Bridge, Tower Hill. 
• Things to do: Watching the race: Tower Bridge offers dramatic scenery as runners cross the Thames. Or, making some explorations around Canary Wharf Financial District.

Near the Finish: Westminster

Westminster is packed with London's most famous landmarks, allowing spectators to enjoy world-class sights while watching runners complete the race.

• Buckingham Palace: The runners' final stretch passes through The Mall, with Buckingham Palace providing a majestic backdrop, ideal for photos and cheering on the finishers.
• The Mall: This ceremonial avenue leads directly to the finish line, flanked by trees and historic buildings, creating a striking finale to the race.
• Houses of Parliament & Big Ben: Located near mile 25, these iconic landmarks offer breathtaking views and a sense of historic grandeur.
• Westminster Abbey: Just a short walk from the course, this Gothic masterpiece is the coronation church of British monarchs and a stunning architectural stop.
• Trafalgar Square: Slightly further from the finish, this central plaza is a hub of activity and a great spot to experience the atmosphere of central London.

Travelling to London for the marathon doesn't have to break the bank. With a few strategic approaches, runners and spectators can secure affordable train fares while making the journey more comfortable and stress-free.

Book in advance

One of the simplest ways to save money is to book tickets as early as possible, up to 12 weeks in advance. Advance tickets are significantly cheaper than buying on the day, especially for popular routes into London on marathon weekend.

Use a Railcard

Railcards offer discounts of up to one-third on standard fares. Options include the 16–25 Railcard, Two Together Railcard, Senior Railcard, and Family & Friends Railcard. If you travel frequently or in a group, a Railcard can quickly pay for itself.

Consider off-peak travel

Off-peak tickets are cheaper and often less crowded. If possible, consider travelling the day before and staying overnight in London to take advantage of lower fares. 

What is the start time of the London Marathon 2026?

The London Marathon 2026 staggered wave starts from 09:30. Elite runners start first, followed by subsequent waves of mass participants. This system helps manage the large field of runners and ensures a smoother flow along the route.

How long is the London Marathon in miles and kilometres?

The London Marathon covers the standard marathon distance of 26.2 miles, which equals 42.195 kilometres. This distance has been the global standard for official marathons since it was established at the 1908 London Olympics.

What is the average finish time for the London Marathon?

The overall average finish time is approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes. In 2025, men averaged around 4 hours and 23 minutes, while women averaged about 5 hours and 1 minute. Times vary by age group and experience level.

What is the fastest London Marathon time?

The fastest men's time is 2:01:25, set by Kelvin Kiptum in 2023. For women, Paula Radcliffe holds the mixed-race record at 2:15:25 (2003), and Peres Jepchirchir has the women-only record at 2:16:16 (2024). Wheelchair records are 1:23:44 for men and 1:38:24 for women.

How long does it take to train for the London Marathon?

Training generally ranges from 16 to 24 weeks. Beginners may need six months or longer to safely build mileage, while experienced runners can complete training in 12 to 16 weeks.

Attending the London Marathon as a spectator can be an unforgettable experience, but navigating the city on race day requires careful planning and preparation. Understanding how to get around efficiently will ensure you don't miss key parts of the race and can enjoy the day safely and comfortably.

Check live travel updates

On race day, it's vital to stay informed about station closures, diversions, and service changes. All customers should check the Transport for London (TfL) and National Rail websites for the latest updates before setting out. These resources provide real-time information that can help you adjust your journey and avoid unexpected delays.

Allow extra time

Stations near the marathon route will be busier than usual, and trains may be delayed due to high passenger volumes. It's wise to plan for significantly longer travel times, whether arriving at the start, moving along the route, or returning home after the finish.

Avoid driving

Extensive road closures along the marathon course make driving impractical. Spectators are strongly advised to use public transport, cycling, or walking instead. Parking will be extremely limited, and traffic congestion is likely, so relying on trains, buses, or the Underground is the safest and fastest option.

Consider alternative routes

If your journey passes near the course, plan alternative transport routes. Some stations may close temporarily, and walking or cycling short distances can save time and frustration.