Platinum
London Marathon
London · Apr 26, 2026
8.4 million people compete for 57,000 spots — the world's hardest lottery to win. Charity runners and fancy costumes create unique spectacle, while Tower Bridge, Parliament, and Buckingham Palace parade past continuously. Most heartwarming of all the Majors, blending elite racing with community spirit.
Date
Apr 26, 2026
Difficulty
Medium
Elevation
~75m elevation gain
Field Size
50,000 runners
Course
Starting from Greenwich, via Tower Bridge, Houses of Parliament, finishing at Buckingham Palace
Tips
- •2026 lottery already closed; 2027 registration opens approximately April 2026
- •Charity places bypass lottery but require fundraising starting ~£2,000+
- •Continuous crowds throughout course — leave earbuds off to embrace the energy
- •Stay near London Bridge or Greenwich for convenient access to start and finish
World MajorHardest LotteryCharity RunnersIconic Routes