London Marathon
London, United Kingdom · Late April
Fast, slightly net-downhill tour of the Thames with the deepest crowds in the sport. The first 5 km drop ~30 m; from there it's flat with grinding cobbled corners around the Tower of London late.
Course
Elevation gain
127 m
Net elevation
-34 m
Finishers
~56,000
Month
April
Late April
Race-day weather
Median start temp
10°C
Historical range
5–18°C
Hot-year risk
Low
April in London is usually ideal: 8–12°C and cloudy. The occasional warm year (2018 started ~18°C) is the exception.
Getting in
Lottery. The largest marathon ballot in the world (800k+ applicants); Good For Age and championship entry for fast UK runners. Official site ↗
Pacing plans for London Marathon
Course-adjusted splits for every common goal — not flat even splits, but pacing that matches where this course is fast and where it bites.
Frequently asked questions
Is the London Marathon a fast course?
Yes, it is a fast course by big-marathon standards. The course has 127 m of total elevation gain. We rate it 8/10 for PR potential.
What is the weather usually like at the London Marathon?
The median start-line temperature is around 10°C, with a historical range of roughly 5–18°C. April in London is usually ideal: 8–12°C and cloudy. The occasional warm year (2018 started ~18°C) is the exception.
How do you get into the London Marathon?
Lottery. The largest marathon ballot in the world (800k+ applicants); Good For Age and championship entry for fast UK runners.
Is the London Marathon a Boston qualifier?
Yes — the London Marathon is a certified course accepted by the B.A.A. for Boston qualifying times.