Best Pubs Along The London Marathon Route

Running 26.2 miles is one of the toughest challenges out there, but let’s not forget about the spectators. As anyone who has ever supported a marathon runner knows, darting around after a friend or family member is a sport in itself. You end up zooming around, battling crowds, hopping on tubes and walking for miles to catch a glimpse of your pal and offer some much-needed words of encouragement as they jog past. But, of course, this is London, so wherever you are you won’t be too far from a good pub, which you can pop into for a pint between sightings. Ahead of the big day on 27 April, we’ve picked out some of the best pubs along the London Marathon route.

Where To Watch The London Marathon 2025: Pubs Along The Route

Mile 1: The Royal Standard Pub, Blackheath

The London Marathon begins in the Greenwich/ Blackheath area, so it will be heaving around there in the morning. But if you’re accompanying a friend to the start line and fancy a quick drink afterwards, The Royal Standard Pub is a good bet. Perched on the edge of Greenwich Park, it has a lovely garden and serves classic pub food.

44 Vanbrugh Park, Greater, Blackheath, London SE3 7JQ, royalstandardblackheath.co.uk

Mile 7: The Cutty Sark, Greenwich

This is one of London’s most historic pubs, dating way back to 1695. Spread across three floors, it offers unparalleled views of the River Thames, best enjoyed from the terrace – but inside is equally charming, filled with dark wood and cosy corners.

4-6 Ballast Quay, London SE10 9PD, cuttysarkse10.co.uk

Mile 11: The Mayflower, Rotherhithe

Another of the city’s oldest riverside pubs, The Mayflower is around seven minutes walk away from a marathon viewing spot. It has its own garden, and there’s always a lively atmosphere – plus, this hotspot is known for its food, so it’s a good lunch option.

117 Rotherhithe St, London SE16 4NF, mayflowerpub.co.uk

Mile 11/12: The Angel, Bermondsey

Despite its charming garden and prime location between Bermondsey and Rotherhithe, The Angel rarely gets too crowded. It overlooks the river, and has a good selection of beers, making it the perfect pitstop for London Marathon spectators.

101 Bermondsey Wall E, London SE16 4NB

© Thomas Lovelock for London Marathon Events/TCS London Marathon

Mile 17: George Poplar, Isle of Dogs

One of the few pubs in the Isle of Dogs, the George Poplar is a community pub with a friendly vibe. Stop by for a refreshing drink at mile 17, before starting the jaunt to the finish line.

114 Glengall Grove, London E14 3ND, greatukpubs.co.uk

Mile 23: Hung, Drawn and Quartered, Tower Hill

Don’t let the name put you off: this is a lovely pub near Tower Hill, housed within a listed building and decked out with wood panelling and high ceilings. It serves a decent food menu and a wide selection of craft beers, cask ales, ciders and spirits.

26-27 Great Tower St, City of London, London EC3R 5AQ, hung-drawn-and-quartered.co.uk

Mile 25: The Westminster, Westminster

If you want to hang around near the finish line without braving the chaos of The Mall, stay put in The Westminster, a landmark pub in the heart of London’s political district. It’s looking better than ever thanks to a recent revamp, and serves burgers, salads and plenty of drinks.

9 & 10 Storey’s Gate, London SW1P 3AT, westminsterarms.co.uk

Finish Line: Buckingham Arms

Located on the Mall itself, the Buckingham Arms is one of the closest pubs to the finish line, meaning you can be waiting for your medal-touting friend with a cold beer. Naturally, it’s always rammed on marathon day, so get down there early to secure a spot.

 62 Petty France, London SW1H 9EU, buckinghamarms.com