Events > Running events > London Marathon > 18 highlights of the London Marathon route
After 26.2 miles of running past the sights of London, this is one scene you'll never forget.
18 highlights of the London Marathon route
Since its inception, the London Marathon course has weaved from east to west, Greenwich to Westminster. We explore the iconic sights along the way from Canary Wharf to The Mall and everything in between.
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Nearly 40,000 runners from across the globe flock to London in April each year to take part in the largest annual fundraising event in the world.
We've picked out some of the best well-known and lesser-known attractions of the 26.2-mile route in one handy guide to get you inspired for April...
Home to one of London's most iconic views, Greenwich Park is one of the Royal Parks of London. Runners will begin the London Marathon at the south-east corner of the park.
Start line - Greenwich Park
Just before the two-mile mark you'll reach Charlton House and grounds, the finest and best preserved Jacobean Mansion in London. Charlton Park sits just behind the House.
Just before completing mile three, you'll run right past the Royal Artillery Barracks – host of the pistol and rifle shooting events during the London 2012 Olympic games.
St. Mary's Gardens
As you make a right-angle turn at St. Mary's Gardens you'll receive your first views across the Thames before heading back towards Greenwich Park.
St. Mary's Gardens
Now an award-winning visitor attraction in Greenwich, the Cutty Sark is celebrated historic sailing ship and the fastest of its time. Cutty Sark features at around mile six of the London Marathon.
Roughly 12.5 miles into the race you'll experience the thrill of running across Tower Bridge, with 100's of spectators to cheer you across!
Runners across Tower Bridge
Founded in 1066, the infamous Tower of London features just before the 13 and 23-mile markers in the London Marathon, giving you a couple of opportunities to view the World Heritage Site.
St George in the East
This Anglican Church dedicated to Saint George features around the halfway mark and mile 22. It was built in the early 1700's and is one of six Hawksmoor churches in London.
Millwall Park
The course will run parallel with Millwall Park at around 17 miles in – a great chance to take in the open views of Canary Wharf.
View from Millwall Park
After taking in the views from Millwall Park, it's time to head to Canary Wharf itself! From around mile 18.5 you'll run beneath One Canada Square (2nd tallest building in London) and the iconic HSBC Building.
Runners at Canary Wharf
Blackwall Basin
As you cross the bridge over Blackwall Basin, be sure to make a glance to your right to capture this view of The O2 Arena.
View of O2 arena from Blackwall Basin
Mile 24 sees runners go under Blackfriars Bridge, emerging up the other side to packed crowds on both sides cheering you on for the final couple of miles.
Runners emerge under Blackfriars Bridge
Continuing along Victoria Embankment, you'll pass underneath Waterloo Bridge – look across the Thames to see the London Eye and Big Ben.
Runners pass under Waterloo Bridge
Whitehall Gardens
Before you reach Big Ben look out for the Whitehall Gardens on your right just after the 25-mile marker.
After Whitehall Gardens have passed on your right, take a glace across the river to your left and you should be roughly dead-opposite the London Eye, Europe's tallest Ferris wheel.
Big Ben and Houses of Parliament
With less than a mile to go you'll make a right-hand turn right in front of Big Ben – you'll notice a surge in volume as the crowds get thicker, the cheers helping you over the final hurdle.
Runners approach Big Ben
After running parallel to St James's Park you'll come to the beautiful Buckingham Palace. Only a matter of metres to go now as you round the Victoria Memorial onto The Mall.
After 26.2 miles of running past many iconic sights of London, this is one scene you'll never forget.
Runners on The Mall
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Charity places in Virgin Money London Marathon
The Christie
PAY NOTHING + FUNDRAISE £2000
Making a real difference to cancer patients, both now and in the future.
WellChild
Care and support for children with a long-term or complex health condition.
The Children's Trust
PAY £100 + FUNDRAISE £2000
The UK's leading charity for children with brain injury.
Category: Disability
Demelza Hospice Care for Children
PAY £50 + FUNDRAISE £2000
Supporting children and young people with terminal illnesses.
Category: South East
The National Deaf Children's Society
Dedicated to creating a world without barriers for deaf children.
Parkinson's UK
We're the Parkinson's support and research charity. Help us find a cure and improve life for everyone affected by Parkinson's.
Category: Other conditions
We support people with dementia in Scotland to make sure nobody faces dementia alone.
As the nation's leading first aid charity, we want to teach everyone simple, life saving skills.
Independent Age
Advice and support for older age.
Category: Care
Richard House Children's Hospice
Living for today, creating memories for tomorrow.
Category: London area
World Cancer Research Fund
We are the cancer prevention experts
Meningitis Now
We exist to save lives and rebuild futures by funding research, raising awareness and providing support.
Teenage Cancer Trust
Help us be there for young people who need us.
St Joseph's Hospice
Improving the quality of life for people with life-limiting conditions and helping them live life to the full to the very end.
YHA - Youth Hostel Association
Transforming young lives forever through travel and real adventure.
Category: Youth