London Marathon 2023: start time and how to get to the starting line

The London Marathon returns to the capital next month with elite athletes and eager participants ready to give the famous 26.2 route a go. Whether you’re participating in the gruelling race, or you’re spectating from the sidelines - here’s when and where you need to be to see the event unfold.

The London Marathon begins from one of three start lines in the Greenwich/Blackheath area. Start times will vary depending on which wave you’re in.

In previous years the mass start is usually around 9.30am on race day. The London Marathon organisers will inform runners of the full details, wave number, start time and recommended arrival time in the lead-up to the event.

The London Marathon website says participants will receive an in-depth event guide with everything they need to know in the weeks before the race. The event guide will include information about where to collect your kit bag, when and where to arrive on Event Day and how to go about meeting friends and family after the race.

Where are the start lines?

The course initially begins at three separate locations. The red start begins in southern Greenwich Park on Charlton Way, the green start is in St John’s Park, and finally, the blue start is on Shooter’s Hill Road.

Where are the closest Tube and train stations?

Public transport is the best way to travel to the Start Line of the TCS London Marathon.

The easiest way to get to the red start is to use Greenwich or Maze Hill stations. You can get a train to Maze Hill and Greenwich from London Bridge or Cannon Street. You will be able to access Greenwich station via the DLR, or via Cutty Sark tube station.

The easiest way to get to the green start is to use Maze Hill station. The easiest way to get to the blue start is to walk from Blackheath station.

Trains to Blackheath leave from London Victoria, Charing Cross, London Bridge and Waterloo East.