Event Information
Runners packages include the following:
- Return economy airfares from Auckland to London
- Return airport transfers on all group flights
- Welcome meeting with Marathon Tours including event briefing
- Five nights’ accommodation at a 4-star property located within walking distance from the finish line
- Guaranteed Virgin Money London Marathon entry
- Fully escorted by one of our experienced Marathon Tours Tour Leaders
- Private hotel transfer from your hotel to the start line
- English breakfast daily
- All hotel taxes
- Marathon Tours London training shirt
- Closed Facebook group to allow you to connect with fellow Kiwi runners before departure
The start is in Blackheath and Greenwich, in South East London. The course then runs past the Woolwich Artillery Barracks (at 7 miles/11.2 kms) round to the famous Cutty Sark in Greenwich. Here the crowds are thick, as supporters take advantage of the pubs and restaurants of this popular spot.
The runners then go through Surrey Quays (8 miles/12.8 kms) and Bermondsey, then along Jamaica Road to the majestic Tower Bridge (at about 12 miles/19.2 kms). On the other side of Tower Bridge you head East on the Highway past Wapping. Unless you are very fast, runners who have completed the circuit of the Isle of Dogs will already be coming the other way along the same road. Then it is 3-4 windswept miles (4.8-6.4 kms) around the Isle of Dogs, where the crowds are thinner. Then past the pointed-topped Canary Wharf (mile 19/30.4 kms), one of Europe’s tallest buildings towering 800ft above the City, where the pain begins as you loop around the north side of West India docks and Limehouse (mile 21/33.6 kms).
Then back in the other direction along the Highway, passing Tower Bridge (mile 22.5/36 kms) to the north side, with the runners still streaming across the Bridge. You then follow along the Embankment, past Cleopatra’s needle, up to the House of Commons and the Clock Tower containing Big Ben, at 25 miles (40 kms). With a mile to go (1.6 kms), you turn right at Westminster Bridge, into Parliament Square, down Birdcage Walk alongside St James’s Park. The last 200 yards (320 metres) you turn right outside the front of Buckingham Palace, and up the Mall towards Trafalgar Square. The finish is in the Mall, alongside St James’s Palace, with Buckingham Palace behind you.
What do I need to travel to London?
You will need a current New Zealand Passport to travel overseas, with a validity of six months or more after the date upon which you are scheduled to arrive back in New Zealand.
Do I need travel insurance?
It is compulsory that each person has travel insurance before travelling with Marathon Tours. Although it isn’t compulsory that it’s purchased via Allianz Global Assistance (our preferred provider), we do highly recommend it, as unlike other companies, they provide cover for the actual marathon event. We recommend you take out insurance as soon as you book, as it will ensure you are covered in case you injure yourself prior to the event and can no longer travel.
Is it possible to purchase an entry by itself?
It is not possible to purchase an entry by itself. Entries are only valid when purchased as part of a package.
How do I book?
Simply click on the yellow registration link displayed at the top of the page or phone the team on 0800 RUNNING. As this event is extremely popular don't delay. Should the upcoming event already be sold out talk to us about joining our contact list for the following year.
