Tips & FAQ: London Marathon
Race-specific advice, answers to common questions, and fun facts about the London Marathon.
Race-Day Tips
Even splits are king
The flat course is built for consistent pacing. Start at your goal pace and resist the adrenaline-fueled temptation to go faster in the first half.
Ride the energy
With 59,830+ runners, the atmosphere will be electric. Use the crowd energy but don't let it push you too fast early on.
Nothing new on race day
Test everything in training: shoes, socks, nutrition, hydration. Race day is not the time for experiments.
Enjoy the moment
You've trained for months. Look around. Smile for the cameras. High-five the spectators. These are the moments you'll remember.
Fun Facts
About 20,000 people applied for the first London Marathon in 1981; 7,747 were accepted and 6,255 finished.
The finish line has moved: it was on Constitution Hill in 1981, at Westminster Bridge from 1982 for 12 years, and then on The Mall.
In 2026, 59,830 runners finished out of 60,512 starters, a Guinness World Record for a marathon.
In 2026 Sabastian Sawe ran 1:59:30, and runner-up Yomif Kejelcha also finished under two hours in 1:59:41.
✨ What Makes This Race Special
A point-to-point course from Greenwich to The Mall past the Cutty Sark, Tower Bridge and Canary Wharf, run since 1981 and the site of the first official sub-two-hour marathon.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the London Marathon? ▼
The London Marathon is a Marathon covering 42.195km (26.2 miles) on a road surface.
What is the time limit? ▼
Check the official race website for the current time limit.
How much does it cost? ▼
The entry fee is not confirmed here yet. Check the official registration page for the current price.
Is the London Marathon good for beginners? ▼
The course is rated as easy, making it suitable for first-timers, though it's not specifically marketed as beginner-focused.
When should I register? ▼
General entry is by lottery.
What is the average finish time? ▼
We estimate the average finish time at ≈ 04:30 (estimate, not an official figure) (hours:minutes). The course is conducive to fast times.
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