World Major, London Marathon, has an infamous history since its first running in 1981, with crowds and an atmosphere that many would agree are unmatched. The race from Blackheath to the Mall may be better described as a journey for all who choose to step on the start line, and a culmination of your hard work over the past weeks and months of preparation.
Starting in Greenwich and winding past the Cutty Sark, the marathon route takes the city streets, offering runners breathtaking views of London’s most famous sites. The race features a relatively flat course with a total elevation gain of 124m, making it a race suitable for both first-time marathoners and a personal best challenge for elite athletes - and don't forget the incredible costumes that parade the streets! Enthusiastic spectators come from all around the world, creating an electric atmosphere that boosts runner morale and makes it a bucket-list event for many. After crossing the finish line on the incredible Pall Mall, just outside Buckingham Palace, participants celebrate their achievements in a bustling environment that captures the spirit of both the city and the sport of marathon running.
We’re beyond excited to bring you the ultimate Runna Marathon lead up first-hand on the streets of London! More details to come very soon. 📌
Runna is not affiliated with or endorsed by London Marathon Events.
🎒 What Should I Pack?
Packing for race day is crucial. Not only is it important to ensure you haven’t forgotten anything vital, but also to get that pre-race buzz going! Here are some things to consider:
Running Kit: Wear your race-day outfit before you set off for the race in the morning. London in April offers mild spring weather, making it a great time for running. Temperatures typically range from 6°C to 14°C (43°F to 57°F). While April sees occasional rain, with around 10 to 12 rainy days in the month, it’s usually light and unlikely to disrupt a race, creating good conditions for marathon runners. Keep this in mind when packing race day fit options! Top Tip: pin your race number onto your kit the night before, to save any last-minute stress in the morning!
Sports Nutrition: Pack any gels, chews, or snacks you’ve used in training. There will be gels handed out on the course, but bring your own so you know you're prepared!
A pre-run layer: It is a good idea to bring an old jumper and maybe even a waterproof to the start line to keep warm and dry. It can be COLD early in London, even if the forecast is bright for the rest of the day. We would suggest bringing some warm clothes which you can then discard at the start line. In previous events, these have then been collected for reuse or recycling.
Bag Drop: Pack a warm top, spare socks, blister plasters, and a recovery snack for after the race.
Electronics: Charge your phone, watch, and headphones the night before. Download any necessary playlists which will get you through those kms!
🎽 How do I collect my race bib and where is the Expo located?
📍 TCS London Marathon Running Show, the ExCeL London (directions found here)
⏰ Wednesday 23 to Saturday 26 April 2025
The TCS London Marathon Running Show features an array of stalls, talks and more, from Wednesday 23 to Saturday 26 April. Be sure to check the exact opening times and give yourself plenty of opportunity to collect your bib number! Friday and Saturday are typically a lot busier, so choose the best possible day for your circumstances.
Please see more information from the official race organizers here.
🍝 What should I eat on the lead up to the London Marathon?
During the week leading up to your race, keep it simple with high-carb, familiar foods like pasta, rice, bread, and potatoes to keep energy up and your stomach happy. Carb-loading can help you feel fueled without overdoing it: spread your carbs throughout the day and stick with foods you’ve enjoyed in training. Avoid anything too fatty, spicy, or brand new—it’s not the time for surprises! Stay well-hydrated, and skip alcohol for a good night’s sleep. Rest, hydrate, and feel ready to hit the ground running!
We've got some more information on race week nutrition here!
👀 Should I run the day before?
Some runners find a short, easy run the day before helps shake out the legs and calm the nerves. If this has worked for you in the past, go for it! If not, consider some light foam rolling or stretching instead. Maybe a walk to keep those legs fresh could also be an option!
We'll be hosting our very own Runna shakeout run led by Runna’s coaches through the streets of London. Ease yourself into race weekend and loosen up for the big day!
Details to be shared closer to the time! Stay tuned. 📌
💪 Final preparations
Once you're packed, fuelled, and hydrated, consider adding a light mobility session to your bedtime routine. Stretching can help release any tension and prepare you for a restful sleep before race day.
Please refer to your Participant Guide which will contain information regarding your specific starting area, wave number and time.
Make sure to get that alarm set, and we recommend finishing any preparation the night before. The morning will be for fuelling, traveling, and managing that excited/nervous energy!
🚋 How do I get to the start of London Marathon?
Unlike many running events, the London marathon actually has three start lines. These are all found at Blackheath, but to access your start pen and then your designated start line, you'll have to head through slightly different entrances! Be sure to check your pre-race emails thoroughly to avoid any issues on race day.
With your London Marathon race number, you will get access to free public transport on the 21st April for most of the day, and this can be the best way to access the start line area given the number of road closures around the area! Once you've access your starting area, you should be sure to soak in the atmosphere, prepare for the race and be sure to drop off your drop-bag to your designated bag lorry in good time!
Please see more information from the official race organizers here.
🗺 Where will I be running?
The TCS London Marathon isn’t just a race—it’s an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most iconic cities, powered by roaring crowds and unbeatable energy!
Your adventure begins in Greenwich, where a buzz of excitement fills the air. As you set off through the quieter streets of the course, you'll soon pass the historic Cutty Sark, cheered on by thousands, before taking on one of the most breathtaking moments of the race—crossing Tower Bridge, with London’s skyline stretching out before you.
From there, you'll weave through the city, taking in the sights of Canary Wharf, before the course leads you back along the River Thames. The final stretch is nothing short of electric—Big Ben will be standing tall as you push through Westminster, with the deafening cheers of spectators propelling you towards The Mall. And then, that moment, turning the corner with the finish line in sight, Buckingham Palace behind you, and the realization that you've conquered 26.2 miles in one of the world’s greatest marathons.
This is London. This is your marathon. Get ready for an experience like no other!
Check out the organizer's website here for more information of the course, including a mapped route as well as information about toilets and drinks stations.
Tracking your loved ones
Spectating in person from London, or from afar? Follow the progress of your friends, family and your favorite runners live! Check out the official race organizer website here, for more information on spectating.
🐌 How should I pace myself on race day?
You’ll have the opportunity to fully utilise the race day workout provided by Runna. Expect pacing alerts and audio cues similar to those during your training runs, helping you stay on track. Pacing can be tricky with the excitement of the start line. To avoid going out too fast, practice your race-day routine during your shakeout run. Download your playlists, set up Runna for pace or RPE cues, and ensure your devices are fully charged.
With a flat course, we suggest starting off at a comfortable pace with the aim of a negative split if possible once you've hit that halfway mark. The support along the route is incredible, and you'll truly enjoy the experience! Try not to worry about what other runners are doing, focus on your race, and listen to the crowds who will be rooting for you the whole way round.
Here are a few more tips on marathon pacing for you!
🛰️ London Marathon: How should I navigate GPS issues on the day?
With so many runners, GPS signals can sometimes be spotty. Stick to your usual method of recording your runs on Runna, and be prepared for a possible delay in uploading your race data. If you encounter issues, save your activity and refresh your app when you have a stronger signal or Wi-Fi.
With the tall buildings in London, heading around Canada Water and Canary Wharf, as well as the sheer volume of your fellow runners with their devices, you'll perhaps find potential issues with your GPS. Don't panic, trust your innate pacing from your experiences in training and let things settle during your run!
Check out more tips on how to troubleshoot common GPS issues here too!
👋 London Marathon: How do I meet up with friends and family after?
One of the trickiest things on marathon day is meeting up with any friends or family who have come with you or are supporting on the day! Leave any spectating spots planning to them, focus on your run, and let them tell you where to look out for them on the day! After crossing the finish line, you'll be presented with your medal, a goodie bag with a bottle of water and a snack (and a t-shirt if you've chosen one). You've completed the London Marathon!
With a huge number of people all recording their run and sending congratulatory messages and more, it's not uncommon to have problems with both your phone signal and GPS location finding/sharing. After walking down the Mall following the finish line, you'll find a selection of large letters at St. James' Park, just around the corner from the finish. Choose one in advance, perhaps your first initial, to meet up with your friends more easily. If you find that your completed run may be a little delayed uploading to Runna, or you have experienced any GPS hiccups, be sure to save your activity and try refreshing your app with a good Wi-Fi connection or strong signal a little later. Reach out to our Customer Experience team within the Support section of the app, with a dedicated inbox for us to help our London Marathon Runnas, if you have further issues!
🎖️ What's next after the race?
You did it!! Now it's time to celebrate... grab your refreshment of choice, loosen your shoelaces, and take some time to stretch and enjoy this spectacular moment that you've been waiting for! Those legs may be sore tomorrow, but take the time to soak up that post-race high in London.
Best of luck with your 2025 London Marathon, and most importantly, have fun! You've GOT this! 🇬🇧
Take in the sights and have the best time - we will be with you every step of the way.
Check out the video below for more of our coaches' top tips for race day!