TCS London Marathon 2027: Date, Route, Registration, and Start Times
Every April, the streets of London fill with runners, volunteers and cheering crowds. In 2027, the event will look different. Organisers plan a one-off double edition on Saturday 24 April and Sunday 25 April. About 100,000 people will run the same famous course across the two days.
This guide explains what you need to know. You will find the date, route, entry options, start times and training tips. Additionally, you will see how the two-day format affects runners and spectators. Read on to plan your TCS London Marathon 2027 with confidence.
Key Facts at a Glance
The table below sums up the essentials. Organisers still need to confirm some details, so check the official website before you book travel.
| Detail | Information |
| Race dates | Saturday 24 April and Sunday 25 April 2027 |
| Format | One-off double event, one day per runner |
| Course | Greenwich to Westminster, same on both days |
| Distance | 26.2 miles (42.195 kilometres) |
| Runners | About 100,000 across both days |
| Likely Saturday start | About 09:00 (provisional) |
| Likely Sunday start | About 09:30 (provisional) |
| Main ballot | Closed on 1 May 2026 |
| Other entry routes | Charity, Good for Age, running clubs, MyWay |
Race Date: Why 2027 Runs Over Two Days
The marathon normally takes place on one Sunday. However, demand has grown fast. The 2027 ballot drew a record 1,338,544 applicants for roughly 100,000 places. Therefore, organisers chose to split the event across a weekend.
Each runner gets one day only. Organisers assign the day, and runners cannot swap with friends. Moreover, a swap would cancel the place. Anyone with a religious reason to change days can email the customer team.
The double format applies to 2027 only. As a result, this year offers a rare chance to be part of a historic weekend.
Saturday and Sunday Compared
| Feature | Saturday 24 April | Sunday 25 April |
| Likely start | About 09:00 | About 09:30 |
| Finish line closes | 17:30 | Late evening, per official plan |
| Time limit | 7 hours 45 minutes | Longer, check official site |
| Day deferral deadline | Friday 23 April, 23:59:59 | Saturday 24 April, 23:59:59 |
Slower runners should read this table closely. Saturday has a firm 17:30 cut-off. If you expect to need more than 7 hours 45 minutes, do not pay for a Saturday place. Instead, contact the organisers with your booking reference.
The Route: Greenwich to Westminster
The course stays the same on both days. It starts in south-east London and finishes near the heart of the capital. The route is mostly flat, so it suits first-timers and record chasers alike.
Key Landmarks Along the Way
- Start area: Greenwich Park and Blackheath, with runners joining the course in three zones.
- Mile 6: the Cutty Sark in Greenwich, where the crowds grow loud.
- Mile 12: Tower Bridge, the most photographed stretch of the day.
- Miles 14 to 21: the Isle of Dogs and Canary Wharf, a tougher section with fewer spectators.
- Miles 22 to 25: the Embankment, with views of the Tower of London and the river.
- Final mile: Big Ben, Birdcage Walk and Buckingham Palace, then the finish on The Mall.
Organisers also mention a second finish line in Green Park for Sunday. They will share more detail closer to the date. Meanwhile, expect the same cheering crowds and live music that make the route special.
A Short History of the Race
The first London Marathon took place in 1981. Fewer than 8,000 people finished that day. Since then, the race has grown into one of the world’s biggest road races. It raises more money for charity than any other single-day event.
The course has changed little over the years. As a result, runners today follow the same path as the pioneers. In 2027, the double format adds a new chapter to that story. It also gives twice as many people the chance to join the celebration.
Start Times and Waves
Organisers have not yet confirmed the final start times. At present, they expect about 09:00 on Saturday and about 09:30 on Sunday. These times may change.
Start zones usually depend on your predicted finish time. Faster runners go first, and slower runners follow in later waves. Consequently, you should enter an honest estimate. A realistic zone helps you avoid crowding and keeps the pace comfortable.
Here is what to do on race morning:
- Arrive at your start area at least 90 minutes early.
- Drop your kit bag at the baggage lorry before the deadline.
- Use the toilets early, because queues grow quickly.
- Walk to your start zone and warm up gently.
Registration: How to Get a Place
The public ballot ran from 24 April to 1 May 2026, and it will not reopen. Organisers announced results on 9 July 2026. Winners had until 31 July 2026 to confirm their places. If you won, you already know your day.
Missed the ballot? Do not worry. Several routes remain open, although competition is strong.
| Entry route | What to know |
| Charity place | Charities hold places on both days. Contact your chosen charity directly. Most ask runners to raise a minimum sum. |
| Good for Age | You qualify with a fast marathon time for your age and sex. Check the official site for the standards. |
| Running club | Clubs receive an allocation on both days. Ask your club about the number of places. |
| Championship | Organisers will split races by sex across the two days. They will publish details later. |
| MyWay | Run 26.2 miles anywhere, on Saturday or Sunday, and still earn the medal. |
Important Rules for Entrants
- You run on your allocated day only.
- You cannot swap days or run with friends on a different day.
- To decline a Saturday place, simply do not pay.
- Deferrals follow the deadlines in the table above, and you cannot choose a new day.
Entry fees change from year to year. Therefore, always confirm the current price on the official entry page.
TCS London Marathon MyWay Option
MyWay lets you run from home, from a park or around your own neighbourhood. You pick Saturday or Sunday, and your run can start any time between midnight and 23:59:59. You can even enter both days, or join the mass race on one day and MyWay on the other. Each entry needs its own booking and payment. Finishers receive the same medal for either day.
This option suits people who live far away. It also helps runners who want the medal without the travel cost.
Training Plan: How to Prepare
A good plan starts about 16 to 20 weeks before race day. For an April event, that means starting around December or early January. Winter training takes grit, so build a steady routine.
| Phase | Weeks | Focus |
| Base building | 1 to 6 | Easy runs, three or four days each week, with a gentle long run. |
| Strength phase | 7 to 12 | Longer runs, hill work and one steady tempo session. |
| Peak phase | 13 to 17 | Your longest runs, up to 20 miles, plus race-pace practice. |
| Taper | 18 to 20 | Cut the mileage, rest well and trust your training. |
Additionally, practise your fuelling. Try gels, drinks and snacks on long runs. Never test new food on race day. Furthermore, buy your shoes early and break them in over several weeks.
Sleep and recovery matter just as much as miles. Therefore, plan at least one rest day each week.
Race Weekend Events
The marathon is only part of the festival. Organisers plan several events around it:
- Friday 23 April: the Friday Night Lights run and the Mini London Marathon for schools.
- Saturday 24 April: the first day of the double marathon.
- Sunday 25 April: the second day of the double marathon.
- Running Show: organisers are exploring an expo that may run from 20 to 24 April.
The expo is where you collect your number and kit. Check your confirmation email for exact times and locations.
Tips for Spectators and Travellers
London is easy to explore without a car. However, roads close on both days, so plan ahead.
- Use the Tube, the Docklands Light Railway or trains to reach viewing spots.
- Pick a spot early, because popular places like Tower Bridge fill fast.
- Agree on a meeting point with friends, since phone signal can drop in crowds.
- Book hotels soon. Two-day events mean more visitors for longer.
- Download the official app to track your runner live.
Supporters make a huge difference. A familiar face at mile 20 can lift any tired runner.
Race Day Checklist
- Race number and safety pins
- Tracker chip, if provided
- Weather-ready kit and a throwaway layer
- Gels or snacks you tested in training
- Anti-chafe balm and sunscreen
- A bag with dry clothes for the finish
- Travel card and some cash
Race Strategy and Fuelling
Many runners start too fast. The crowds, the music and the adrenaline push the pace up. However, a fast first half often leads to a painful second half. Therefore, aim for an even pace or a slightly faster second half.
- Run the first three miles slowly and settle into a rhythm.
- Take a gel or snack every 40 to 45 minutes.
- Sip water at each station, but do not overdrink.
- Break the course into sections, such as Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf and the Embankment.
- Save energy for the last six miles, where the crowds carry you home.
Eat a familiar, carbohydrate-rich meal two to three hours before the start. Similarly, avoid heavy or spicy food the night before. Simple pasta, rice or toast works well for most people.
Weather and What to Wear
Late April in London can bring sun, wind or showers. Temperatures often sit between 8 and 16 degrees Celsius. Because the start area is cold and exposed, you will want a throwaway layer. An old jumper or a bin bag works well, and volunteers collect discarded clothing for charity.
On the course, dress for the temperature about 10 degrees warmer than the forecast. You will heat up quickly. Additionally, wear a cap if the sun shines, and pack a light rain jacket for the travel home.
Fundraising for Charity
Thousands of runners raise money for good causes each year. Charity places usually come with a fundraising target. In return, your charity offers training advice, a cheering point on the route and a post-race welcome.
Start your fundraising page early. Share your story, because personal reasons inspire donors. Moreover, set small goals along the way, such as a first target after your first long run. Regular updates keep supporters engaged and generous.
After the Finish Line
Crossing the line feels amazing, yet your body needs care. Keep walking for ten minutes to help your legs settle. Then collect your medal, your recovery bag and your kit.
Eat and drink within an hour. Next, meet your friends and family at the meeting area, which usually follows the alphabet by surname. In the following days, walk gently, stretch and sleep well. Most runners feel normal again within a week or two.
Finally, take time to celebrate. You trained for months, and you finished one of the world’s great races. That deserves a proud moment.
Conclusion
The TCS London Marathon 2027 will be a landmark weekend. The race will run on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 April, with about 100,000 runners following the classic route from Greenwich to Westminster. The ballot has closed, yet charity, Good for Age, club and MyWay options remain. Start times are provisional, so watch for updates from the organisers.
In short, choose your route in, build a steady training plan and prepare for the day. Whether you run, volunteer or cheer, you will share a special moment in London.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the 2027 marathon?
It runs on Saturday 24 April and Sunday 25 April 2027. Each runner takes part on one day only.
2. Why does the event last two days?
Demand is huge. A record number of people applied, so organisers added a second day for this year only.
3. Can I choose Saturday or Sunday?
No. Organisers assign your day. You cannot swap with other runners.
4. Where does the race start and finish?
It starts in Greenwich and Blackheath and finishes on The Mall near Buckingham Palace.
5. What time does the race start?
Organisers expect about 09:00 on Saturday and about 09:30 on Sunday. They will confirm the times later.
6. Is the ballot still open?
No. The ballot closed on 1 May 2026 and will not reopen.
7. How else can I enter?
You can run for a charity, qualify through Good for Age, join a club allocation or enter MyWay.
8. What is the time limit?
On Saturday, the finish line closes at 17:30, which gives 7 hours 45 minutes. Check the official site for Sunday.
9. Can I defer my place?
Yes, in some cases. Deadlines fall on Friday 23 April for Saturday and Saturday 24 April for Sunday. You cannot pick a new day.
10. What is MyWay?
It is a way to run 26.2 miles anywhere on Saturday or Sunday and still earn the finisher medal.