The London Marathon is one of the most popular marathons in the world. It attracts runners from all over the globe, elite and amateur alike. If you're planning to run the London Marathon, you'll need to figure out how to get to the start line. We explore how to get to the London Marathon via train.
Trains to London are frequent and available from cities across the UK. Check our train timetables to find the most convenient one for you.
How to get to the London Marathon by train
When you get to Euston, there are a number of train stations near the start line of the London Marathon.
The closest station is Blackheath Station, which is about a 15-minute walk from the start line. You can get here in around 40 mins via the Northern Line to London Bridge and a National Rail to Blackheath.
Other train stations near the start line include Greenwich Station, Charlton Station, and Woolwich Arsenal Station. When travelling on TFL, these trains will be free for runners with a valid race number. To get to the start line by train, you'll need to plan your journey in advance and make sure you arrive at the station early.
Make sure you arrive at the station early. The start line opens at 8:00 am, and you'll need to be there at least an hour before. Show your race number to the train conductor when you board the train.
There are some additional things to keep in mind when planning your train journey to the London Marathon. The train stations near the start line will be very busy on marathon day. Remember to allow plenty of extra time for your journey.
There will also be a number of road closures in place on marathon day. Make sure you plan your journey in advance and allow extra time for your journey.
If you’re spectating, there are various places for you to watch the race throughout London. The website advises staying away from the finish line if you can help it, as this will be extremely busy.
What to do at the London Marathon
If you're planning on spectating at the London Marathon, there are a few things you can do to make the most of your experience.
Firstly, bring suitable clothing. The weather in London is unpredictable at the best of times, so be sure to dress for the weather. If you're planning on bringing a child, be sure to have them wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
The next piece of advice is to bring snacks and drinks. There will be food and drink vendors at the start line area, but it's a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks as well.
If you're planning on staying for the entire race, it's a good idea to bring a chair or blanket to sit on.
The London Marathon is all about the charity runners, some of whom will need your backing. So remember to give them your support.
About the London Marathon
The London Marathon was first held in 1981, the idea coming from two men called Chris Brasher and John Disley. Brasher was a British Olympic steeplechase champion, and Disley was a journalist and organiser of the Falmouth Road Race.
The men were inspired by the New York City Marathon, which had been established in 1970.
The London Marathon has been held every year since 1981. The race is typically held in April, but it was moved to October in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with only the elite athletes permitted to run.
The London Marathon starts in Blackheath and finishes on The Mall in front of Buckingham Palace. The course is flat and fast and is known for its enthusiastic crowds.
As aforementioned, the London Marathon is a popular event for charity fundraising. Amazingly, over £1 billion has been raised for charity since the race began.
If you are interested in running the London Marathon, you can apply for a place through the ballot system. You can find more information about the London Marathon and how to apply for a place on the official website.
Ways to save on your train ticket to the London Marathon
Save money on your train ticket to London by booking in advance, travelling off-peak where possible, and taking advantage of Railcard discounts.
By planning your travel ahead of time, you can use Avanti’s Best Fare Finder to get the best deal on your tickets. You could also set up Advance Train Ticket Alerts to secure the lowest possible price.
If your journey time is flexible, you can travel off-peak. This involves travelling between 10:30 and 14:30 or after 20:00 on midweek days, or any time on Friday or at the weekend.
If you’re travelling as a family, make the most of Family Tickets, child tickets (for those aged under five), or a Family & Friends Railcard, which gives discounts of between a third and 60%.
Get the Avanti app
To find the best fares and pick your own seat, download the Avanti West Coast app.
With no hassle, you can book in advance, make changes to your route, and select your preferred seat. What’s more, you can track your train’s progress and store all your tickets in one place, all with zero booking fees.
