The 2025 London Marathon is set to be a spectacular event as the city prepares to welcome over 56,000 runners on Sunday, April 27, 2025. This year's marathon promises to be one of the largest gatherings of marathon participants in history, surpassing the previous record of 55,646 finishers set at the New York Marathon in November 2024. With elite athletes from around the globe, including all the Olympic and Paralympic marathon champions from last year's Paris Games, excitement is building for a day of thrilling competition.
The race will kick off early in the morning, with elite wheelchair races starting at 8:50 am, followed closely by the elite women's race at 9:05 am and the elite men's race at 9:35 am. The mass start for ordinary runners will begin at 9:35 am, with the final wave expected to set off by 11:30 am. Runners will take on a 26.2-mile course that begins in Greenwich, winding its way through iconic London landmarks such as the Cutty Sark, Tower Bridge, and Big Ben, before finishing on The Mall near Buckingham Palace.
Weather conditions on race day are expected to be favorable, with temperatures starting around 10C (50F) at the start line and potentially rising to 21C (70F) as participants cross the finish line. The Met Office has predicted sunny skies for the event, a welcome change after a week of unsettled weather in the UK. This year’s marathon is also notable for its commitment to equality, as it continues to offer equal prize money for elite wheelchair races and their able-bodied counterparts.
In terms of competition, the elite women’s field is stacked with talent, featuring Olympic champion Sifan Hassan and Tigst Assefa, the second-fastest woman and previous world record holder. Last year's champion, Peres Jepchirchir, who won the women’s race in a world-record time of 2:16:16, will not be defending her title. The men's elite field includes the legendary Eliud Kipchoge, who is aiming for his fifth victory in London, alongside the world record holder in the half-marathon, Jacob Kiplimo, who will be making his full marathon debut.
As the marathon approaches, spectators are preparing to line the streets to cheer on the runners. Notable spectator viewpoints include Tower Bridge, The Mall, Buckingham Palace, and the Houses of Parliament. For those looking for a less crowded experience, areas like the Highway in Wapping and Canada Water also offer excellent viewing opportunities. The Rotherhithe Peninsula will feature a “Community Cheer Zone” along a 3.2 km stretch, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Transport for London is supporting the marathon by offering free transit to race participants displaying their bibs until 6:30 pm on race day. However, roads around the capital will be closed to accommodate the event, making public transport or walking the best options for spectators. Pubs and cafes near the route will be bustling with activity, with places like The Gipsy Moth in Greenwich and the King’s Arms near Waterloo Station recommended for those looking to enjoy a meal or drink while watching the race.
As the marathon unfolds, the atmosphere in London will be electric, with thousands of runners pushing their limits and the city coming together to celebrate this iconic event. Whether you’re participating or spectating, the 2025 London Marathon promises to be a memorable experience.
With the marathon just days away, the excitement is palpable. Runners are finalizing their preparations, and spectators are strategizing their viewing spots. As the world watches, the London Marathon will not only showcase athletic excellence but also the spirit of community and resilience that defines this great city.
In conclusion, the 2025 London Marathon is shaping up to be an unforgettable event filled with elite competition and community spirit. With the weather on its side and a record number of participants, London is ready to host a marathon that will be remembered for years to come.
