The London Marathon starts in a place that sounds like it belongs in a fairy tale: Blackheath. It’s a huge, grassy common in southeast London, and yes, it’s as posh as it sounds—think rolling hills and lots of wind.
Why Blackheath? Mainly because it’s flat and spacious enough to hold tens of thousands of nervous runners, all with slightly panicked faces and full bladders. Spoiler alert: Portaloos are the real heroes here.
Depending on your starting pen (like a corral for human cattle), you might line up on Charlton Way or Shooters Hill Road. Don’t worry if you get confused; just follow the swarm of Lycra and energy gels.
The Journey: A 26.2-Mile Sightseeing Tour
Once you start, you’ll quickly realize the route is a giant, sweaty tour of London. You’ll pass iconic landmarks like the Cutty Sark, Tower Bridge, and Big Ben—assuming you’re not too busy hyperventilating.
The course winds through areas like Greenwich, Canary Wharf, and the City of London. It’s basically a history lesson, but you’re running for your life.
Fun fact: at mile 13, you’ll hit Tower Bridge. That’s halfway. If you feel like crying, that’s totally normal—just blend in with the other runners.
