The London Landmarks Half Marathon (LLHM) is a standout event that has been on my to do list for a while, celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere the unique opportunity it provides to run through the very heart of the capital.
Far from being a standard half marathon, it’s a true celebration of London’s history, culture, and landmarks.
ON THE DAY
ROUTE
The LLHM route is a closed-road, 13.1-mile course that winds through central London, showcasing iconic sights such as Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral, Nelson’s Column, the Gherkin, the Shard, the Tower of London, and the London Eye.
The course is relatively flat, though there are a few gentle inclines and hairpin bends with cones to run around, making it a great course to run.
It is not necessarily the quickest course due to the volume of runners taking part but you can still chase a personal best.
The route is also peppered with quirky entertainment and themed cheer stations, adding to the atmosphere.
Unfortunately, due to a emergency at one the underground stations on the later part of the course, the route was redirected and was 600m short. As annoying as this was at the time when I was on for a PB, these things can't be helped and did not detract from a brilliant route.
You can view my Strava activity HERE to see elevations and course detail.
THE START
The race in previous years has started at Trafalgar Square but in 2025, the course was run in reverse to previous years and it began near Pall Mall. The start area is buzzing with anticipation being built up by the DJ.
Arrive at your wave early to get a good spot in your pen or be prepared for some queuing to get over the start line when your wave starts.
Pre-race communications are generally clear, and included a mass warm up.
WATER STATIONS
Cups of water are well placed along the route at mile points 3, 6, 9 and 11.5, ensuring you stay hydrated.
It can become a bit busy as everyone naturally goes to the first table and some people stop to drink their water, but take your time, there are plenty of tables with water and your often better heading for the last tables where it is less congested.
At the finish, there are additional refreshments such as granola bars and a can of water in your goody bag.
PACERS
The event features pacers for a range of finish times, helping you to achieve your target goals. You can easily find them in your start wave as they have large flags on their back.
The pacers are relative to your start wave, so make sure you put the right estimated time when entering.
TOILETS
One notable downside is the significant queues for toilets at the bag drop area, which can be a little frustrating. But this is normal for a large scale event when everyone suddenly needs the toilet before the start!
Be mindful that there are no toilets at the actual start where you get into your wave so make sure you go before getting in your start wave.
Arrive early or seek alternative facilities nearby to avoid last-minute stress.
There are also toilets at mile points 3, 6, 9 and 11.5 on the course.
WEATHER
We had a great day for the weather and it was lovely and sunny. I was in the first wave though and probably fortunate that it only really started to get warm in the last couple of miles.
If your in one of the waves that starts later in the day, be mindful it might be a warm spring day and to dress accordingly. You can dump your a top at the start line and it will be collected for charity if it is a cold day.
GETTING THERE
Being in central London, the event is easily accessible by public transport, with several tube stations close to both the start and finish areas.
For the start head to Green Park, Piccadilly Circus or Leicester Square. If you go to either of these tube stations your see a mass of runners all heading to bag drop area you can follow.
However, road closures mean driving is not recommended, and some stations can get very busy, so plan your journey in advance.
HOTEL
We stayed at The Athenaeum Hotel in Piccadilly, which was a short walk away to the start.
This was quite expensive but to be honest, but it was a great hotel and they gave me a late checkout so I could grab a shower after the event before heading home.
AFTER THE EVENT
FINISH LINE
The finish line is located near Trafalgar Square, offering a dramatic and memorable conclusion to the race.
Upon finishing, runners are greeted by enthusiastic volunteers and often receive their medals from London icons such as Pearly Kings and Queens or Chelsea Pensioners, adding a special touch to the experience.
As you would expect from a large half marathon the finish is pretty busy and the team of volunteers keep you moving to collect your medal and good bag further down the road.
The best bit for me though was meeting my Olympic hero Dame Kelly Holmes! Kelly had run the half marathon as well and was cheering people on as they finished.
MEDAL
As medals go it is quite impressive and folds out to show you all of London's landmarks you have run past.
T-SHIRT & GOODY BAG
When you finish you receive a goody bag, which typically includes the technical t-shirt and various items from event partners and sponsors.
To be honest, I can't remember what was inside the bag as I was so hot and hungry when I finished as drank and ate what was in there!
The goody bag is a nice memento and practical reward for completing the race.
PHOTOS
There are so many photographers on the course catching your best (and worst) poses and moments.
Before the event I paid £14.99 for the digital MEGA pack that allowed me to download all my photos and an event video. By paying before the event takes place you save £5.
There were at least 50 photos in the pack, if not more with different overlays, sizes and options.
I thought this was pretty good value to be honest and the photographers got some great photos of me.
SUPPORT
Support along the course is exceptional. The streets are lined with enthusiastic spectators, charity cheer squads, and live entertainment, creating an motivating atmosphere from start to finish.
Just like the Big Half marathon, also in London, your smile all the way round with signs people make to support you.
PRICE
Entry fees vary, especially if running for a charity place, but expect to pay around £35 to £50 for registration, with additional postage fees for race packs.
Many people choose to run for charity as it is so hard to get entry via the ballot, which may involve a fundraising commitment.
WHO ORGANISES IT?
The London Landmarks Half Marathon is organised by Tommy’s, a leading pregnancy and baby loss charity.
The event is not-for-profit, with proceeds supporting Tommy’s and other charity partners.
HOW TO ENTER?
Getting a entry is really hard as it is drawn through a ballot. I have entered the ballot a number of times and never been successful.
You can try your luck and register on the London Landmarks website.
I got a place through the charity I was raising money as part of my 12 half marathons in 12 months challenge.
WOULD I DO IT AGAIN?
The London Landmarks Half Marathon is a must-do for those seeking a memorable, well-organised, and entertaining race experience in the heart of London.
With its iconic route, lively support, and unique atmosphere, it’s perfect for runners of all abilities looking to soak up the city’s spirit
THINGS TO BEAR IN MIND
- The route is busy and twisty, with several hairpin turns.
- Arrive early to avoid toilet queues and congestion at the start.
- Central London can be crowded; plan your travel and spectator meeting points carefully.
- The event is extremely popular and sells out quickly, so register early to secure your place in the ballot.
- The focus is on fun, fundraising, and celebrating London, rather than chasing a personal best but the course is still quick for those chasing a time.
KIT
I wore the following race day kit:
- Soar Running Printed Tech T-shirt
- SAYSKY Combat+ 9 Inch Half Tights
- SHYU Socks
- Puma Nitrate Elite 3
- Coros Pace 3
SHARE
If you found this blog post useful, please share it using the social media buttons below.