It’s arguably the capital’s most heartwarming event. Thousands of runners, from first timers to Olympic stars, descend on the capital’s streets every April to take on the 26 mile and 385 yard challenge that constitutes the London Marathon.
The course runs from Blackheath in south-east London to The Mall in the heart of the capital, so if you’re considering a pub walk on the day itself, below is our pick of the best pubs on or near to the course. The full listing and guide is on fancyapint.com.
Please note: you need to check with the pub or bar you want to go to as some of them do have entrance and/or ticketing requirements. And, while we think these are all open on a Sunday, they may not be open that early, so it pays to check.
Princess of Wales 
(Blackheath, London)
... Decent local near the start of the race - well, you can see the park from here.
Hardy's
(Greenwich, London)... Spacious pub with restaurant, probably the best bet in East Greenwich
The Ship
(Rotherhithe, London)... Handsome 30's boozer near the course, but a good place to chill out after they've gone by.
Bridge House
(Bermondsey, London)... Real ale style bar on Tower Bridge - assuming you can get in, you won't even have to go outside.
The Grapes
(Limehouse, London)... Possibly the best pub near the marathon route - you won't want to leave.
Lord Nelson
(Docklands, London)... Great little pub near the southern tip of the Isle of Dogs, and kid friendly too.
City Pride
(Docklands, London)... Famous for being the most obvious pub in the television coverage during the marathon, it's got a ringside seat.
The Banker
(Cannon Street, London)... Down a side street and great if you want a view of the river, not so great for the race.
St. Stephens Tavern
(Whitehall, London)... Very spiffy Grade II listed pub on Parliament Square across from the Houses of Parliament.
Bag O' Nails
(Victoria, London)... Decent enough pub with good beer near the finish line.
