As runners gear up for this year’s London Marathon on Sunday, those who may have missed out have a chance to enter next year’s race.
Anyone keen to take on the 26.2-mile challenge around the capital in 2027 has a chance to do so from Friday, 24 April.
The 2025 ballot set a new world record for entries, with an incredible 1,133,813 people signing up for a chance to race, shattering the 840,318 record from the year before.
More than 59,000 runners are expected to take part in the 2026 London Marathon on Sunday.
Hugh Brasher, chief executive of London Marathon Events, said: ‘I think that marathon running is so popular because it genuinely brings people together.’
‘And having these real-life experiences is what the world needs more of – and people are reaching out for more.’
‘The vast, vast majority of people are unbelievably welcoming. That’s what the London Marathon shows; that’s what marathons around the world show. And I think we need more of that community spirit and more of that togetherness.’
More than 1.3 million people have completed the London Marathon since its inception in 1981. As of 2025, it holds the record for the world’s largest marathon, with 56,640 finishers in that year alone.
Runners have also raised an extraordinary £1.4 billion for charity.
How do I sign up for the London Marathon 2027?
Next year’s London Marathon will be held on Sunday 25 April, 2027.
There is a prospect that next year’s event could take place over two days to allow more people to take part, following record-breaking demand in previous years.
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Prospective marathon runners can sign up by entering a public ballot, with winners drawn at random.
When does the London Marathon ballot open?
The ballot for the 2027 London Marathon opens today, Friday, April 24, at 9am (BST).
It will stay open until 4pm (BST) on Friday, May 1.
The results will be announced at the start of July. Should a two-day event’s permissions be granted, applicants will be automatically entered for both, increasing their chances of success.
How much does it cost to run the London Marathon?
Running the London Marathon generally costs £79.99 for successful UK ballot applicants.
If you are a UK resident, and choose to donate your entry fee to support the work of the London Marathon Foundation during the ballot process if your entry is unsuccessful, your entry fee is reduced from £79.99 to £49.99.
International entries are higher at £225, which includes a carbon offset fee.
If you choose to enter through a charity place, there is a registration fee (usually around £120) and a pledge of a minimum sponsorship, typically around £2,500.
What happens if I don’t get a place in the first ballot?
If you don’t get a place in the main ballot, not all hope is lost.
You will automatically be entered into a second ballot, and you will at least double your chance of getting a place through that second draw.
If you are successful in either the first or second ballot, your entry is prepaid and confirmed.
How do I know if I’m on the ballot?
First of all, you’ll receive a confirmation email when you apply, as well as a payment receipt if you donate your entry fee.
Organisers of the marathon recommend checking your junk folder if you don’t see a confirmation email soon after applying.
The results of the 2027 London Marathon ballot will be emailed to all entrants in July 2026 – the exact date has not been confirmed.
What if I’m unsuccessful in both?
If you are unsuccessful both times, you will receive a ‘free hydration vest’ worth over £100, and the money you entered will be donated to the London Marathon Foundation.
Top-rated marathons in the UK if you don’t get into London
If you aren’t lucky enough to be able to race in London next year, never fear, as there are plenty of other options across the UK.
From the Manchester Marathon, billed as the flattest and most beginner-friendly, to the Great Welsh Marathon offering stunning views of the Llanelli Millennium Coastal Park, there’s bound to be another option for you.
The Brighton Marathon is held a few weeks before the London Marathon, or you could head to Blackpool and take in all of the seaside resort’s tourist spots en route.
Edinburgh Marathon is also known for its super-flat route, making it a great option for beginners, or if you want more of a challenge, the multi-terrain New Forest Marathon takes you through the heart of the stunning national park.
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