Thousands are expected to descend on the capital this Sunday as the 2025 London Marathon gets underway. With cheering crowds lining the streets and over 40,000 runners tackling the world-famous 26.2-mile course, the city is set to come alive with energy and excitement.
But, as is tradition, this major sporting event will also bring with it widespread road closures and travel disruptions across central London. Whether you’re running, spectating, or just trying to get around, here’s everything you need to know.
Marathon Route: From Blackheath to The Mall
This year’s route remains iconic. Starting in Blackheath, runners will make their way through historic and scenic parts of the city. Expect incredible views and landmark moments, including:
- Cutty Sark in Greenwich
- The soaring span of Tower Bridge
- Modern high-rises of Canary Wharf
- London icons like The Shard, Big Ben, and the Tower of London
The finish line awaits at The Mall, nestled in the heart of St James’s Park.
Full London Marathon 2025 Road Closure Timetable
As thousands prepare to take on the iconic 26.2-mile route through the capital, London will see extensive road closures to accommodate the London Marathon 2025. Whether you’re running, cheering, or just trying to navigate the city, here’s a detailed list of when and where roads will be closed.
Start Area Road Closures
| Road | Closure Time |
|---|---|
| Charlton Way (Red Start) | 4:00am – 2:30pm |
| Shooters Hill Road (Blue Start) | 4:00am – 2:30pm |
| St John’s Park (Pink Start) | 7:00am – 2:30pm |
Early Route Closures
| Road | Closure Time |
|---|---|
| Charlton Park Road | 7:00am – 2:30pm |
| Shooters Hill Road | 7:00am – 2:30pm |
| Old Dover Road | 7:00am – 2:30pm |
| Little Heath | 7:00am – 2:30pm |
| Charlton Park Lane | 7:00am – 2:30pm |
| Artillery Place | 7:00am – 2:30pm |
| John Wilson Street | 7:00am – 2:30pm |
Greenwich to Rotherhithe
| Road | Closure Time |
|---|---|
| Woolwich Church Street | 7:00am – 3:00pm |
| Woolwich Road | 7:00am – 3:00pm |
| Trafalgar Road | 7:00am – 4:00pm |
| Creek Road | 7:00am – 4:00pm |
| Evelyn Street | 8:00am – 4:00pm |
| Surrey Quays Road | 8:00am – 4:00pm |
| Salter Road | 8:00am – 4:00pm |
| Brunel Road | 8:00am – 4:00pm |
| Jamaica Road | 8:00am – 4:00pm |
Canary Wharf to Tower Hill
| Road | Closure Time |
|---|---|
| Tower Bridge | 8:00am – 8:30pm |
| The Highway (south side) | 8:00am – 8:30pm |
| Narrow Street | 8:00am – 8:30pm |
| Westferry Road | 8:00am – 8:30pm |
| East Ferry Road | 8:00am – 8:30pm |
| Marsh Wall | 8:00am – 8:30pm |
| Bank Street | 8:00am – 8:30pm |
| North Colonnade | 8:00am – 8:30pm |
| Poplar High Street | 8:00am – 8:30pm |
| Commercial Road | 8:00am – 8:30pm |
| The Highway (north side) | 8:00am – 8:30pm |
Central London and Finish Area
| Road | Closure Time |
|---|---|
| Byward Street | 7:30am – 9:00pm |
| Upper/Lower Thames Street | 7:30am – 9:00pm |
| Victoria Embankment | 7:30am – 10:00pm |
| Parliament Square | 7:30am – 10:00pm |
Extended Multi-Day Closures
| Road | Closure Time |
|---|---|
| Birdcage Walk (Eastbound) | 6:00am Friday 25 April – 6:00am Monday 28 April |
| Birdcage Walk (Westbound) | 6:00am Saturday 26 April – 6:00am Monday 28 April |
Good news for drivers – the planned M3 closure between junctions 3 and 4 has been cancelled for this weekend to reduce travel disruption.
Travelling Around London on Marathon Day
Underground and Overground Services
The London Underground, Overground, and DLR will be running additional services. However, expect crowded platforms, particularly along:
- Jubilee Line
- Circle Line
- District Line
- DLR stations near the route
Note: Cutty Sark DLR will be entry only, and several DLR services will be adjusted.
Additionally, there will be a reduced service on the Elizabeth Line between:
- Heathrow Terminals 4 & 5 and Paddington
- Maidenhead and Paddington
TfL advises passengers to plan ahead and keep an eye on the TfL website or TfL Go app for real-time updates.
Tip: Marathon runners wearing their official bibs can travel for free on the Tube and London buses.
Buses
Bus routes running through or near the marathon course will be diverted or shortened until roads reopen. Visit tfl.gov.uk/bus/status to check your bus route on the day.
Don’t Miss the Freebies for Runners
While you’re planning your marathon day, don’t forget to check out what extras are available for participants. From sports drinks and snacks to exclusive discounts and branded goodies, runners are in for a treat.
See the full list of 2025 London Marathon freebies for runners and make sure you don’t miss out.
When Does the Race Start?
The event rolls out in staggered waves:
- Elite Wheelchair Race – 8:50am
- Elite Women – 9:05am
- Elite Men – 9:35am
- Mass Runners – 9:35am to 11:30am
Start times are based on runners’ estimated finish times provided in advance. Participants have a generous eight-hour window to complete the marathon. Those who exceed this will continue on pavements with the support of marathon staff.
With a route showcasing some of London’s most famous sights and thousands of runners gearing up for a challenge of a lifetime, the London Marathon 2025 promises to be another unforgettable day.
For those heading into the city – whether to run, support or spectate – make sure you check the road closures, plan your travel routes, and prepare for crowds.
And to all those running, good luck. You’ve got this.
