The ballot results for the 2027 London Marathon were released on July 9, 2026. If you were not successful, there are still several ways to secure a spot in the race, which will take place on Saturday April 24 and Sunday April 25, 2027. This is the first time the event will be spread over two days.
Ballot and Key Dates
The public ballot opened at 9am on Friday April 24, 2026, the day before the 2026 London Marathon, and closed at 4pm on Friday May 1, 2026. A record-breaking 1,338,544 people entered the ballot during that week. Successful applicants were notified on Thursday July 9, 2026.
Charity Places
One of the most popular alternatives is running for a charity. There are 500 charities to choose from, supporting causes such as LGBTQ+, mental health, children, community, and cancer. Each year, approximately 25,000 charity spots are available. To apply, visit the website of your chosen charity directly. However, these places are highly oversubscribed.
International Tour Operators
Non-UK residents can secure a place through an international tour operator. These all-inclusive packages typically cost several thousand pounds and include entry, hotels, and hospitality. This option is available for those who prefer a bundled experience.
Good for Age Qualification
UK residents who have completed a certified marathon within a specific time can qualify via the Good for Age program. For example, men aged 40-44 need a time under 2:57:00, while women in the same age bracket need under 3:43:00. The qualifying period for the 2027 race will be announced in autumn 2026. For the 2026 race, the qualifying period was October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025. Good for Age places are capped at 6,000 (3,000 men and 3,000 women) and are allocated on a fastest-first basis relative to age and time. Meeting the qualifying time does not guarantee a place.
