Watching the London Marathon can be a brilliant family day out — but standing on the sidelines for hours can be a big ask for younger children. The good news is that the marathon route runs past some great parks, squares and playgrounds, so with a little planning you can turn a long wait into a fun outing in its own right.
Whether you’re cheering on a family member as they run, or just fancy soaking up the atmosphere, here are some ideas to help you make the most of the day with kids in tow.
Use a route map to plan your stops
One of the easiest ways to keep everyone entertained is to plan your route around the parks, playgrounds and open spaces near the marathon course, rather than just picking one spot and staying put. A change of scene between cheering sections can make all the difference for younger children.
FunKidDays put together a handy guide to family-friendly spots along the London Marathon route. You can download the free fun route map for the London Marathon here.
You might also like Free Things to do in London with Kids
For more ideas throughout the year, it’s worth downloading the FunKidDays app, which offers a London city guide for parents. The app covers playgrounds, parks, after-school classes, sports, farms, attractions, coffee mornings and lots more, and lets parents read and leave their own reviews of places to visit.
Tips for a smoother day
- Pick your viewing spot near a park or playground so kids have somewhere to burn off energy between sightings of the runners.
- Bring snacks, water and something to keep little hands busy during quieter stretches.
- Check public transport and road closures in advance, as routes and stations near the course can be affected on marathon day.
- Plan for toilet breaks and buggy-friendly routes if you’re travelling with very young children.
Frequently asked questions
Is the London Marathon suitable for young children to watch?
Many families do bring young children along, especially if they plan stops in nearby parks and playgrounds rather than standing in one spot for the whole race. It’s worth thinking about your child’s usual stamina for a day out and building in breaks.
How long will we need to wait to see a runner we know?
This depends on where you’re standing along the route and how many runners are taking part, so it’s a good idea to check timing information closer to the day rather than relying on previous years’ details.
What should we bring for a day watching the marathon with kids?
Comfortable shoes, snacks, drinks, weather-appropriate clothing and something small to keep children entertained during quieter moments are all worth packing.
Are there family-friendly spots along the route?
Yes — several parks, squares and playgrounds sit close to the marathon course, which is why a route-based guide can be so useful for planning your day.
Looking for more family day-out ideas?
If this has you planning a London day out, take a look at our roundup of free things to do in London with kids for more inspiration beyond marathon day.
Prefer to save this for later? Bookmark this page so you have the route map and tips handy when marathon day comes around.
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