London is relatively flat, thus it is an ideal place for running. After picking up your pace you can enjoy beautiful parks, views of historical buildings, paths along the mighty River Thames, and then “tube” your way back if you want to. The only thing that you have to bear in mind is that the weather in London can sometimes be chilly, so dress accordingly.
In addition, London is also home to multiple running events throughout the year including 10k runs, half-marathons, and, of course, the London Marathon, which is held annually and is one of the six world marathon majors.
The London Marathon 2022
The London Marathon is one of the most popular marathons in the world. This prestigious athletics event takes place in the capital of Britain, and its route runs through London’s most beautiful places.
The annual run is World Athletics Race Elite Platinum Label winner and is also included in the Abbot World Marathon Majors, a series of 5 majors, which also includes Boston Marathon, BMW Berlin Marathon, Bank of America Chicago Marathon, TCS New York City Marathon and Tokyo Marathon. The Virgin London Marathon is also a large-scale charity event. Over the history of The London Marathon, its participants have raised more than £1 billion.
The marathon was usually held in spring but London Marathon 2020 was changed to a virtual event and London Marathon 2021 was held in October because of the pandemics. The 42nd London Marathon was expected to return to its usual spring schedule but the organizers wanted to make sure that the race had the best chance of running as normal. So, London Marathon 2022 will be held on 2nd October.
The marathon was founded in 1981 by athletes Chris Brasher and John Disley. But today it is more than just a competition, it is a huge celebration with various performances, concerts, and parades held in the streets, and, of course, lively discussions of the results later in the pubs. 6747 athletes took part in the first race in 1981. And in recent years the number of participants exceeded 40 thousand. 2021 was a record-breaking year. Around 40,000 people competed in the mass participation event and further 40,000 joined the event virtually. Some participants run for personal achievements and some aim for raising money for charity. The London Marathon also grants its participants free access to public transportation on Docklands Light Railway and London Underground until 17:00 October 2 upon presentation of a start number.
Many people wish to participate but, unfortunately, you can’t just run the London Marathon. Marathon runners are selected in a ballot, which is typically open in the week following the race. The ballot for the London Marathon 2022 is now closed. It opened the day before the 2021 race and closed on 9th October. The results were announced on the 14th March. Great Britain residents can also register for the race based on the results of previous races. Another choıice is to enter the race via a charity place by raising money for a good cause. You can find the list of charities that have guaranteed spots on the website of The London Marathon. You can also enter marathon via Good for Age but the you need to meet qualifying conditions.
Every year millions of fans support beginners and professional athletes. Some of them run dressed in various costumes, for instance a superhero or the London bus. There definitely will be other funny dresses this year too. Many celebrities including Chris Evans, Princess Beatrice, Gordon Ramsey and even astronaut Tim Peake have joined previous races.
The marathon route hasn’t changed much since the first run in 1981. The course starts at Greenwich and Blackneath and is approximately 42.195 km long. Along the route participants pass London’s famous landmarks such as The Shard, Canary Wharf, London Eye and Big Ben and finish in front of Buckingham Palace.
To see even more touristic attractions check out our London 3 days itinerary!
Virtual London Marathon
The Virtual London Marathon 2021 had a huge success, so it returns in 2022! The London Marathon is not only the London Marathon. Thanks to its virtual version you can join The London Marathon from wherever you are. It will be held on the same day as the mass event, 2 October. One more great thing about virtual marathons is that you can choose any time of the day for your race.
After you sign up, you will have 24 hours to complete the marathon. You can choose the location and your own course. Your result will count towards the Good For Age entry for future races held in London.
If you would like to test your strengths against runners around the world, then hurry up as the places at Virtual London Marathon are limited. They became available on 22nd March. The entering cost is £28 for UK participants and £35 for international participants.
You can sign up for the event here.
Hackney Half Marathon
Hackney Half is one of the fastest growing half marathons. It is perfect for those who want to see the heart of East London. It’s pure fun. Live entertainment and DJs performances keeping the runners motivated all along the route let the marathon to be referred to as a carnival of sound.
The event is perfect for beginners as the route of the marathon is flat and friendly. But also a great chance for experienced runners to set their personal best.
Participants of the race will pass by the famous Town Hall, historic Broadway Market, Haggerston and Downs Parks.
Hackney Half is a part of Hackney Move festival of running and fitness which takes place on 20-22 May. You can find more detail on their Instagram page.
Hackney Half will take place on 22nd May.
The views of London that participants of the marathon see during the race inspire them to take a closer look at the capital of the UK. If you also want to Discover London’s rich royal heritage and history you can try our FREE PLAN.
To see all running events held in London in 2022 and book a place check this website.
