Parking yourself near the start in Greenwich is a masterclass in controlled chaos. From around 8:30 AM, you’ll see the elite women launch from the Blue Start on Charlton Way, followed by the mass waves. It’s loud, it’s packed, and the energy is pure adrenaline. Pro tip: arrive by 7:30 AM to grab a spot with a good view of the giant screens—you won’t see much else with the crowds.
The sheer variety of runners here is staggering. You’ll spot rhinos, superheroes, and people carrying fridges—yes, that’s a thing. Fun fact: the first London Marathon in 1981 had just 7,000 runners; today, over 50,000 take the start line. It’s a beautiful mess, so bring patience and a coffee.
