The London Marathon is one of the world’s most iconic running events, attracting tens of thousands of participants from around the globe each spring. If you’re running in 2026, whether it’s your first marathon or your fifth, your training isn’t the only thing that matters. Choosing the right place to stay can make a huge difference in how smoothly your race weekend goes.
Where you sleep the night before affects everything, from how rested you feel on race morning to how easily you reach the start line in Greenwich and recover after crossing the finish near The Mall.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best areas to stay for the London Marathon, from convenient start-line neighborhoods to relaxing post-race options. You’ll also find booking tips, transportation advice, and practical considerations to help you plan a stress-free, memorable marathon experience.
Preparing for race weekend? You can also check our best hotels near the London Marathon for a detailed look at top stays close to the route and start area.
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Key Considerations When Choosing Your London Marathon Accommodation
Before diving into specific areas, it helps to know what really matters when booking your stay for the London Marathon:
- 1. Proximity to the Start Line: The race begins in Greenwich, with starting zones in Blackheath and Maze Hill. Staying nearby saves valuable time and energy on race morning, especially if you want a calm, unhurried start.
- 2. Easy Transportation Access: London’s transport network is excellent, but race day means road closures and heavy crowds. Look for hotels close to DLR, Southeastern, or Underground stations for quick, reliable travel to the start.
- 3. Quiet and Restful Locations: A solid night’s sleep is key to peak performance. Avoid nightlife-heavy areas like Soho or Camden and opt for quieter neighborhoods such as Greenwich, Westminster, or South Bank.
- 4. Runner-Friendly Amenities: The best hotels for marathon weekend often offer early breakfasts, flexible check-out times, or fitness areas. Some even provide small touches like hydration stations or complimentary energy bars.
💡 Runner’s note: Many experienced participants book their rooms as soon as they receive confirmation — hotels near the route fill up fast, especially around Greenwich and Westminster.
Best Areas to Stay for the London Marathon 2026
1. Greenwich – Closest to the Start Line
Greenwich
Perfect for convenience and calm pre-race vibes.
Greenwich, a charming riverside neighborhood in southeast London, combines history, green space, and runner-friendly calm. It’s home to the Prime Meridian Line at the Royal Observatory and landmarks like the Cutty Sark and Greenwich Park, which also marks the starting point of the London Marathon route and offers runners an ideal base surrounded by green parks and calm streets.
For runners, Greenwich is not just scenic, it’s practical. The race begins in Blackheath, only minutes away, meaning you can walk to the start line on race morning instead of navigating crowded trains. Greenwich Park’s rolling paths and skyline views make it a favorite warm-up spot for locals, offering the perfect mix of fresh air and pre-race focus.
Before race day, you can even explore the Royal Observatory Greenwich and the Prime Meridian Line, a classic pre-race photo spot.
Staying here gives you the best of both worlds: a peaceful atmosphere the night before and unbeatable proximity on race day.
Why Stay in Greenwich?
- Walk to the start line in under 15 minutes
- Peaceful, historic setting with plenty of restaurants and cafés
- Green spaces ideal for light jogs or stretching
Cons:
- Limited accommodation and high demand on marathon weekend
- Fewer budget options compared to central London
Recommended Hotels:
- Novotel London Greenwich: A short walk from the start, quiet rooms, and early breakfast options.
- DoubleTree by Hilton Greenwich: Stylish comfort with quick access to transport links.
💡 Runner’s note: Book early, rooms in Greenwich disappear fast once marathon entries open.
2. Canary Wharf – Modern and Well-Connected
Canary Wharf
A sleek area with great amenities and mid-race energy.
Located just north of the Thames, Canary Wharf is one of London’s most modern districts, all glass towers, waterfront promenades, and skyline views. Despite being a business hub, it’s surprisingly peaceful on weekends and a favorite among visiting runners.
The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) connects Canary Wharf directly to Greenwich, making it easy to reach the start. You’ll also run right through this area around miles 15–20, where the energy is unbeatable, cheering crowds, live music, and shimmering skyscrapers all around.
The area’s official website CanaryWharf.com, lists restaurants and cafés ideal for a pre-race carb-load or post-race celebration.
Hotels here tend to offer larger rooms, gyms, and excellent breakfast service, ideal for those who like a calm, predictable setup before a big race.
Why Stay in Canary Wharf?
- Fast DLR connection to the start area
- Modern, quiet hotels with great facilities
- Perfect base for runners and supporters, mid-route viewing points nearby
Cons:
- Limited nightlife and can feel business-like after hours
Recommended Hotels:
- Novotel London Canary Wharf: Sleek design, rooftop views, and early dining options for race weekend.
- Point A Hotel Canary Wharf: Affordable, modern rooms right by the DLR station.
💡 Runner’s note: The 15–20 mile stretch through Canary Wharf is a mental boost, if you’re staying nearby, you’ll know exactly where the crowds are loudest.
3. Central London – Where the Marathon Finishes in Style
Central London Westminster
Iconic landmarks, unbeatable atmosphere, and a well-earned celebration.
Central London is the grand stage where the London Marathon reaches its unforgettable finale. This is where months of training turn into triumph, surrounded by cheering crowds and world-famous landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and The Mall, where the finish line awaits.
Running through Westminster, Embankment, and Birdcage Walk feels electric. The views of the Thames, the roar of the crowd, and the sheer sense of history keep you moving through those final miles when your legs start to fade.
For runners, staying in Central London means you’re right where the action ends, perfect for an easy walk (or shuffle!) back to your hotel after finishing. Areas like Westminster, Covent Garden, and Victoria offer excellent transport links and endless options for food, recovery, and post-race celebrations.
Why Stay in Central London?
- Quick access to both start (via train) and finish lines
- Surrounded by restaurants, shops, and attractions
- Perfect for sightseeing before or unwinding after the race
Cons:
- Premium pricing during marathon weekend
- Tourist areas can be noisy and crowded
Recommended Hotels:
- The Ritz London: Iconic five-star stay, ideal if you’re turning marathon weekend into a celebration.
- Z Hotel Trafalgar Square: Compact, modern, and right in the heart of the action.
💡 Runner’s note: After you cross The Mall, the walk back to your hotel feels like a slow victory lap — take your medal, your foil blanket, and your time.
4. London Bridge – Central, Connected, and Full of Character
London Bridge & The Shard
Historic charm, great transport, and riverside energy.
If you’re looking for a balance of location and atmosphere, London Bridge hits the sweet spot. It’s not right at the start line, but only a short train ride from Greenwich, and perfectly positioned for exploring London once the race is over.
This neighborhood blends history and modern London life. From Tower Bridge (which you’ll cross mid-race) to The Shard and Borough Market, everything here buzzes with energy. On race day, the streets fill with spectators, and the riverside views make this stretch one of the most photographed parts of the marathon.
Staying in London Bridge means excellent transport links, plenty of restaurants to carb-load, and a lively yet manageable pace, ideal if you want convenience without chaos.
Why Stay in London Bridge?
- Direct train access to Greenwich and easy return from The Mall
- Great dining around Borough Market
- Excellent mix of hotels for all budgets
Cons
- Slightly longer commute to the start line
- Busy area, light sleepers might want to pack earplugs
Recommended Hotels:
- The Shangri-La at The Shard: Luxury views, unbeatable comfort, and an incredible post-race bath with a skyline view.
- ibis Styles London Southwark – near Borough Market: Affordable, stylish, and walking distance to London Bridge station.
5. The City of London – Quiet, Central, and Great Value
City of London
Peaceful weekends and quick connections to the start line.
The City of London, also known as the Square Mile, is the capital’s financial heart, but come the weekend, it transforms into a quiet and surprisingly affordable base for marathon runners.
Staying here puts you right between Greenwich (the start) and The Mall (the finish), with fast Tube and DLR connections from stations like Bank, Monument, and Liverpool Street. It’s a practical spot if you want comfort, convenience, and a bit of calm before the race.
Because most hotels cater to weekday business travelers, you’ll often find lower weekend rates in high-quality hotels with gyms, saunas, and early breakfast options. It’s ideal for runners who want space to rest without paying central London prices.
You’re also surrounded by some of London’s most historic landmarks — St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, and the River Thames are all within walking distance. Whether you’re stretching your legs before the race or taking a quiet evening stroll after, the City offers a relaxed rhythm that’s hard to beat.
Why Stay in the City of London?
- Lower weekend rates and high hotel quality
- Excellent Tube and DLR links to Greenwich
- Quiet, easy-to-rest atmosphere before race day
Cons
- Some cafés and restaurants close on weekends
- Early morning transport to the start can get crowded
Recommended Hotels:
- Hotel Saint London: Modern comfort, near Tower Bridge and St. Paul’s.
- Apex City Of London Hotel: 4-star stay close to the Tower and river paths, great for recovery walks.
6. South Bank – Scenic, Central, and Full of Life
South Bank
Ideal for soaking in London’s culture and post-race buzz.
If you want to be close to the finish line and surrounded by London’s energy, South Bank is a fantastic choice. Set along the Thames with views of Big Ben and the London Eye, it’s one of the most vibrant areas in the city, full of art, food, and riverfront atmosphere.
Transport links are excellent. Waterloo and London Bridge stations make it simple to reach the start in Greenwich and get back from the finish on The Mall. Many hotels here cater to marathoners, offering early breakfasts, quiet rooms, and wellness facilities for recovery.
Beyond logistics, South Bank is a joy to explore: walk the riverside promenade, visit Tate Modern or Shakespeare’s Globe, or celebrate at Borough Market with great food after the race.
For cultural highlights, browse the official South Bank London guide, ideal for planning a post-race stroll or meal by the river.
Why Stay in London South Bank?
- Central location near finish line and major sights
- Great for post-race walks and celebrations
- Strong transport connections
Cons:
- Hotels are pricey during marathon weekend
- Can be busy with tourists and events
Recommended Hotels:
- Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge: Spacious rooms, spa, and pool — ideal for recovery.
- Marlin Waterloo: Modern apartments near Waterloo Station with easy access to everything.
Pro Tips for Finding the Perfect London Marathon Stay
Simple ways to make marathon weekend smoother and more enjoyable.
- Book Early: Hotels near the route sell out fast, secure your spot as soon as you get your race confirmation.
- Check Transport Links: Make sure your hotel connects easily to the DLR, Jubilee Line, or Southeastern trains to Greenwich.
- Flying into London?: Most international runners arrive via Heathrow or Gatwick, both with direct connections into the city. If you’re staying overnight before or after your flight, explore our Heathrow hotels guide or Gatwick hotels page for convenient runner-friendly options near each airport.
- Late checkout matters: After 26.2 miles, you’ll want a shower and a nap before heading out again.
- Pick a quiet room: Ask for a higher floor or one away from the street, sleep is the best fuel.
- Early Breakfast Options: Look for hotels that serve breakfast before 6 a.m. or offer takeaway boxes.
- Check for a gym: A light stretch or treadmill jog can help calm nerves the day before.
- Recovery perks: A sauna, pool, or blackout curtains make a world of difference post-race.
- Be flexible: If central hotels are full or pricey, look further out, as long as you’re near a good Tube line, you’ll be fine.
Final Thoughts
Choosing where to stay for the London Marathon isn’t just about location, it’s about setting yourself up for a calm, confident race day. Whether you want to roll out of bed in Greenwich, celebrate near Westminster, or rest quietly in The City, the best place is the one that helps you feel ready.
Think ahead, plan early, and keep your priorities simple:
comfort, convenience, and a bit of calm before the storm.
Key Takeaways
- Runners: Stay near Greenwich or Westminster for easy access to the start and finish.
- Spectators: London Bridge, Canary Wharf, and South Bank are perfect for cheering and exploring.
- Budget Travelers: Try Stratford, Camden, or Paddington for affordable yet well-connected stays.
In the end, the London Marathon is more than a race, it’s a weekend to remember.
Book early, rest well, and take it all in.
Good luck, and see you on The Mall!
