How to get to the London Marathon
Getting to London by train for the London Marathon can be simple. Trains to London are frequent and available from cities across the UK. Check our train timetables to find the most convenient one for you.
To get there from Euston train station, you’ll need to consider which starting line you’re trying to reach. The nearest station to the marathon will vary depending on your dedicated start line. For the Blue Start line, the nearest is Blackheath Station. Green Start is Maze Hill Station and Red Start is Greenwich Station.
From each station, you can expect to walk for around 10-20 minutes to your starting line.
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 to get around the city.
If you’re spectating, there are various places to watch the race throughout London. The website advises staying away from the finish line if you can help it, as this will be busy.
What to do at the London Marathon
Whether running or spectating, the London Marathon is an iconic annual event. You’re sure to have a good time and feel a part of something big. The capital city is buzzing with energy during the marathon weekend.
If you're planning on spectating, 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 are usually food and drink vendors at the start line area, but it's a good idea to bring your own treats as well. If you're planning on staying for the entire race, it's also a good idea to bring a chair or blanket to sit on as you soak up the atmosphere.
The London Marathon is all about the charity runners, some of whom will need your backing. So remember to give them your support when they pass by. Cheer, wave, applaud - have fun and enjoy the day.
About the London Marathon
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.
The London Marathon’s history dates back to the 80s. It was first held in 1981, the idea coming from two men called Chris Brasher and John Disley. 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 at one of three starting lines between Greenwich and Blackheath. It finishes on The Mall in front of Buckingham Palace. The course is flat and fast and is known for its enthusiastic crowds.
It’s a popular event for charity fundraising. Over £1.3 billion has been raised for charity since the race began. All kinds of worthy causes benefit from the London Marathon each year.
The London Marathon date this year is Sunday 27th April 2025. Applications for this year’s event have now closed. However, if you are interested in applying for next year’s marathon, you can find more details and information on how to apply on the official website.
Ways to save on your train ticket to the London Marathon
There are lots of handy ways to save money on your train ticket to London. One easy one is to plan your travel ahead of time using our Best Fare Finder to get the best deal on your tickets.
It’s a good idea to make use of Advance Train Tickets to find a great deal. You can even set up Advance Train Ticket Alerts to make sure you don’t miss ticket releases and secure the lowest possible prices.
If your journey time is flexible, you could purchase an Off-Peak Ticket. These are tickets for services that run at quieter times of the day. You can enjoy a cheaper ticket and a quieter carriage - what’s not to love?
If you’re travelling as a family, make the most of Family Tickets or Child Tickets (for those aged under five). A Family & Friends Railcard is another option, this gives discounts of ⅓ for adult fares and 60% on kids’ fares.
Get the app
Make life easier when planning your transport to the London Marathon 2025 with Avanti. To find the best fares available and make payments with ease, 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.
