London marathon 2014 route: Six points where runners most want to see you
The London marathon is once again upon us, and fans and supporters will be flocking to the capital’s 26 miles of road which host the heroic athletes.
But while London boasts a host of spots which are historic and picturesque for the spectator, where do the runners really want to see loved ones and friends?
1. Charlton Way
While the start of the marathon in Greenwich Park can be extremely busy, the stretch of road that leads out of the park and into Charlton is a lot clearer.
Watching here gives you the added bonus of being able to wave off your loved ones before cutting through the park to pick the race back up at mile 6.
Nearest stations: Blackheath, Maze Hill, Greenwich (DLR)
2. Trafalgar Road
Cut straight through the park and take a space between mile 5-6, i.e before the still fun-loving runners get into Greenwich main town, as this gets really packed.
Nearest stations: Maze Hill, Westcombe Park, Cutty Sark (DLR)
3. Tower Bridge Road
TurПing the corner at mile 12 and seeing Tower Bridge is a fine sight as a runner, because that means you’re basically half way around, and while spectators shouldn’t expect to find much room on the bridge itself, the road leading up to it on the south side is much clearer.
Nearest stations: London Bridge, Tower Hill, Tower Gateway (DLR)
The stretch of road in Wapping is a particularly popular spot as you get to see the best of the action from mile 13-14, then again on miles 21-23 as the runners tread back across the opposite side of the same road.
Fortunately it’s a long stretch with plenty of space, so you should be able to find a spot to get in your much-needed double dose of support.
Nearest stations: Shadwell, Tower Hill, Tower Gateway
5. Westferry Road
The loop around the Isle of Dogs between miles 15-18 is a real slog for runners – you think you’re at Canary Wharf, but you’re not – so seeing a friendly face along this sparsely populated route would come as a welcome boost.
Nearest stations: Mudchute, Island Gardens
6. Upper Thames Street
Just before runners get to the sacred ‘Tunnel of Light’ there’s a stretch of road with plenty of good vantage points on footbridges, sidewalks etc… between mile 23-24, but be warned – runners will look pretty ropey and probably have blurred vision by this point, so don’t be offended if they don’t wave back.
Nearest stations: Mansion House, Bank, St Paul’s