Overview
The London Marathon was founded by athletes Chris Brasher and John Disley. After competing in the 1979 New York marathon, Brasher was in awe of how the spectacle united so many athletes and fans from all nationalities and backgrounds. On 29 March 1981, the first London Marathon took place with 6,255 runners crossing the finish line.
Today's London Marathon is a sight to behold. Over 40,000 runners of elite and amateur status don their running gear - and very often their fancy dress costumes - to take on the 26-mile course that begins at Blackheath, and passes through Greenwich before crossing the Thames over the world-famous Tower Bridge. The race winds around some of the capital's most infamous landmarks, to finish under the gaze of Buckingham Palace on The Mall. The event has earned its place in the World Marathon Majors, and its charitable ethos has raised over £1 billion for good causes.
London Marathon Tickets
The London Marathon takes place on the streets of London and spectating is absolutely free with no ticket required. Many spectators choose to watch from multiple locations during the day, beginning around Greenwich/Blackheath start line and then work their way to a few more spots along the course using public transport.
Some of the most iconic spots around Greenwich Cutty Sark, Tower Bridge, and The Mall do get extremely crowded and so whilst they are beautiful backdrops with a great atmosphere, it can be harder to get a clear view of the runners and may be less comfortable to spectate.
