Where to Stay for the London Marathon

Each spring, the London Marathon transforms the city into one of the world’s most exhilarating sporting events. From the first strides in Greenwich to the triumphant finish along The Mall, the atmosphere is electric, drawing runners and spectators from across the globe. Whether you are taking part, supporting a loved one or simply soaking up the energy, where you choose to stay can shape your entire experience. From front-row views of the finish line to quieter retreats just beyond the crowds, each of our London hotels offers a distinct perspective on marathon weekend. At the Finish Line: The Rubens at the Palace & Hotel 41 For those wanting to be at the very heart of the action, The Rubens at the Palace and Hotel 41 offer an unrivalled setting. Located just moments from Buckingham Palace, both hotels sit at the final stretch of the marathon route, where runners make their last push along The Mall. It is here that emotions run highest, with cheering crowds and a powerful sense of achievement filling the air. Whether you are crossing the finish line yourself or waiting to celebrate someone special, there is no better place to be. The Rubens at the Palace is particularly well suited to larger groups and family stays, offering a vibrant and welcoming setting for post-race celebrations. In contrast, Hotel 41 provides a more private, residence-style experience, an intimate and exclusive retreat designed for those seeking complete discretion and a true sense of escape. Close to the Route: The Montague on the Gardens, Bloomsbury Tucked away in Bloomsbury, The Montague on the Gardens offers a more relaxed vantage point, while still being within easy reach of the marathon route. Just a short journey from central race locations, it provides a peaceful base to return to after a day of spectating. Its position near Russell Square and the British Museum allows guests to balance the excitement of the marathon with quieter moments in one of London’s most characterful neighbourhoods. A Mayfair Base: The Chesterfield Mayfair For those who prefer to stay slightly removed from the busiest crowds, The Chesterfield Mayfair is ideally placed. Located in the heart of Mayfair, it offers easy access to key marathon points, including the finish line, while maintaining a sense of calm and refinement. After a day spent navigating the route, returning to this elegant, residential setting offers a welcome contrast. For a celebratory moment after the race, gather friends and family at Stanley’s Rooftop Bar, where views across the city and a relaxed, atmospheric setting provide the perfect place to raise a glass and mark your achievement in style. A Peaceful Retreat: The Milestone Hotel & Residences Set opposite Kensington Gardens, The Milestone Hotel & Residences provides a tranquil retreat away from the marathon crowds. While not directly on the route, its location allows for straightforward access to central London, making it ideal for those who wish to dip in and out of the event. After a day of cheering or completing the race, guests can return to the calm of the hotel and make use of the private Wellness Club, designed to gently unwind and ease tired muscles. For a deeper sense of recovery, personalised treatments with our resident therapist, Jana Watson, offer a restorative experience, helping the body relax and recover after the demands of the day. Quietly Connected: The Egerton House Hotel Similarly, The Egerton House Hotel in Knightsbridge offers a discreet and intimate base during marathon weekend. Just a short journey from the race route, it combines convenience with privacy, allowing guests to experience the excitement of the event before retreating to a quieter, more residential setting. Its boutique scale makes it particularly well suited to those seeking a more personal stay. After the race, settle into the elegant surroundings of the lounge and enjoy one of our renowned martinis, a perfectly composed way to unwind, take the edge off and ease into a well-deserved moment of relaxation. Restore at Aire Ancient Baths Across our London hotels, we are proud to work with our treasured partner, AIRE Ancient Baths, a sanctuary dedicated to restoring balance to body and mind. Nestled moments from Covent Garden within a beautifully restored historic building, AIRE Ancient Baths London offers a place to step away from the pace of the city and immerse yourself in a world where water and silence take centre stage. Guests of Red Carnation Hotels are invited to enjoy a range of complimentary enhancements when booking the 45-minute Ancient Relaxing Massage, including cava, truffles and hydrogel cooling eye patches. To arrange this experience, please speak with your hotel Concierge Team, who will be delighted to assist. Experience the Marathon, Your Way The London Marathon is as much about the atmosphere as it is the race itself. From cheering crowds along the Thames to the iconic finish at Buckingham Palace, every moment offers something memorable. Whether you choose to stay at the heart of the celebration or just beyond it, each of our London hotels offers a different way to experience this extraordinary event. To plan your stay for the London Marathon, we invite you to speak with our Reservations Team today. Our historic and individually unique collection of London hotels offers the perfect setting for both the start and finish of your race weekend. On your marks, get set, go.

Where to Stay for the London Marathon: Hotels Near the Route